York

York is a one-man play about yet another hidden figure in history. The personal slave of famed explorer William Clark, York was also the only black member of the Corps of Discovery. Even though he made vital contributions along the journey, York wasn’t recognized as a member of the Corps until the year 2000. Still, we seldom, if at all, read about York in most history books. Like many important historical figures who weren’t in positions of privilege, his story was nearly erased. Local audiences can now learn more of this story when it comes to life in theatrical form as part of Spokane’s Black History Month events. Actor David Casteal takes the lead as York, incorporating first-person narration and live African drumming into his gripping performance. York premiered at the Spokane Civic Theatre back in April of 2005 and was collaboratively written by Casteal and local playwright Bryan Harnetiaux.

Fri, Feb. 2 at 7:30 pm • $15-$22 • Spokane Civic Theatre • 1020 N. Howard • Also Thu, Feb. 8 at 6:30 pm • $10 • Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture • 2316 W. First • spokanecivictheatre.com • northwestmuseum.org