Through the storm, through the night, lead me on to the light,
Take my hand, precious Lord, lead me home. — “Take My Hand, Precious Lord”
This is a story Memphians know all too well: 42 years ago, Martin Luther King Jr., the leading light of the American civil rights movement, stood on a balcony of the Lorraine Motel with a small cadre of his closest friends and supporters. In the moments before tragedy struck, he caught the attention of saxophonist Ben Branch and made his final request. “Make sure you play ‘Take My Hand, Precious Lord’ in the meeting tonight,” King said. “And play it real pretty.” Then the crack of gunfire filled the air, an assassin’s bullet found its mark, and the life’s work of a peaceful warrior came to an abrupt and untimely end. This week Memphis remembers that life.
On Saturday and Sunday, Hattiloo Theatre joins forces with local playwright Ruby O’Gray to present The Liberal Mrs. Price, about the relationship between an African-American maid and her white employer in the aftermath of King’s assassination.
On Sunday, the National Civil Rights Museum honors King with “A Moment of Reflection,” a free program featuring song, spoken word, and prayer. The day will include performances by Kevin Davidson & the Voices and the changing of the wreath at room 306 at 3:45 p.m.
