The Scopes Monkey Trial

McCarthyism

Watergate

World War I

Reconstruction

Southern Heritage

Are any of these topics a part of your school curriculum?  Well, they are all a part of the school touring production of Senator Sam (written by Steve Bouser). This one-man play starring professional actor Gary Lee Smith examines the life of one of the South’s most famous country lawyers, Sam Ervin, Jr.

Whether it’s in a single classroom, school auditorium or library, “Senator Ervin” uses the time he’s given with your high school students to talk about his life.  From growing up in the mountains, fighting in World War I, the childhood accident that resulted in family tragedy and thrust him into public service to his fights against the monkey bill. 

Your students will be learning about history without realizing it as they watch the “Senator” re-enact his battles with  Joseph McCarthy, Robert Kennedy and various witnesses in the Watergate hearings. The play is not only filled with personal insight and political confrontation, but it’s also peppered with the home spun mountain humor Sam Ervin was famous for, entertaining your students (and teachers) as well as educating them.

The play is approximately 45 minutes in length to accommodate individual school and class schedules.

Photo taken during a performance at Richmond HS in Rockingham, NC

If requested and/or time permits

•  A study guide sent to your school before the “Senator’s” arrival.

•  A discussion with Professional Actor Gary Lee Smith after the performance.

•  A visit by a member of the staff to discuss the play and the role of theatre in education prior to the performance.

• Acting classes conducted after the performance focusing on public speaking, creativity, improvisation and character development.

Special Note:  "Senator Sam" has received a grant from the Helen M. Clabough Charitable Foundation to assist in funding 8 performances in Ashe, Avery, Caldwell and Watauga Counties in North Carolina for the 2006-08 school years.