Classical Theatre of Harlem founder and former artistic director Alfred Preisser will helm the work in progress that is slated for presentation Feb. 4-14, 2010, at the Abingdon. De Shields penned the work which he also conceived. The Working Theater presents the limited run.

"In my performance, I explore the life and achievements of the Great Emancipator, Frederick Douglass," De Shields said in a statement. "Douglass began his life as a slave, through heroic efforts, became one of America's most important and historically influential African American leaders."

De Shields currently stars in the Alliance Theatre production of David Mamet's A Life in the Theatre. He was seen earlier this season in The Bacchae for Shakespeare in the Park and headlined Archbishop Supreme Tartuffe for the Classical Theatre of Harlem, also under Preisser's direction.

He has earned Tony nominations for his work in The Full Monty and Play On. His additional Broadway credits include Impressionism, Prymate, Ain't Misbehavin', The Wiz and André De Shields' Harlem Nocturne.