Written by and starring Broadway vet Vanessa Shaw, the piece playing Bristol, PA, Jan. 22-Feb. 10, 2008, "delves deeply into many themes in American society which are still unresolved today."

Shaw, whose Broadway credits include Camelot and Timbuktu, has received solid reviews for her portrayal of the powerful historical figure, who was famously denied the chance to sing at a DAR event.

Ivan Thomas (who has performed internationally as singer, actor, and classical pianist) and Mark Edward Lang (a Royal Shakespeare Company-trained actor who directs and acts with The Laughing Stock Company) complete the cast. Jeffrey V. Thompson directs. Larry Ramsey is production associate.

According to BRT, "A native of Philadelphia, Marian Anderson overcame seemingly insurmountable challenges with dignified resolve and quiet determination, from being denied entrance to an all-white music high school in 1921 to being banned from performing by the Daughters of the American Revolution. This show focuses on a critical ten years in the life of Marian Anderson, best known for her 1939 concert at the Lincoln Memorial where her ironic rendition of 'My Country 'Tis of Thee' exemplified the racial inequalities of the times. Through her determination and ability, she overcame racial prejudice and became one of the most successful singers of the time, and one of the most significant African-American vocalists in American history."

Welcome Home, Marian Anderson replaces Chris Callaway's Clouds, which has been cancelled due to personal health reasons cited by Callaway. For more information, visit www.BRTstage.org.