“The Spirit of Harriet Tubman,” a powerful one-woman performance by Leslie McCurdy, will present a look into the life and legacy of a historic hero at 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 12, in Tyler Hall’s Waterman Theatre.
Presented as part of the ARTSwego Performing Arts Series, this one-woman performance has appeared in major theatre festivals, performance art centers and schools worldwide. The production has set the stage for tens of thousands of audience members to learn more about perhaps the most famous conductor of the Underground Railroad, helping escaped slaves find freedom during the 19th century.
McCurdy brings a rich blend of talent and heart to her performances, bridging tradition and innovation in the world of dance. Her work aims to transcend boundaries, touching audiences with grace, passion and an emotional depth.
Skillfully bringing Tubman’s spirit to life, McCurdy tells her story through both familiar and lesser-known accounts. Using words believed to be Tubman’s own, McCurdy reveals the faith and conviction that guided Tubman on her journey. This performance powerfully connects the past with the present, inspiring attendees to draw strength from Tubman’s courage as they envision their futures.
In addition to the performance, the award-winning author and writer will host an engaging discussion on “Bridging History and Action: Harriet Tubman’s Civic Legacy” on Tuesday, March 11, from 6 to 7 p.m. in 114 Marano Campus Center. This free event is open to the public, and light refreshments will be provided. In this session, McCurdy will explore Tubman’s pivotal role as a freedom fighter and advocate for justice, highlighting the ways her work can inspire modern civic action. Attendees can discover how Tubman’s commitment to equity and activism resonates in today’s efforts to build stronger, more inclusive communities.
For over 20 years, McCurdy has captivated audiences around the world with her performances. McCurdy is a celebrated artist, earning the International Vigor Award, the 2014 Elizabeth Havelock Grant from the Windsor Endowment of the Arts, and twice honored with Windsor, Ontario’s Mayor Award as Artist of the Year and Outstanding Performing Artist.
With an honours bachelor of fine arts degree in dance and a teaching certificate from the University of Michigan, McCurdy honed her skills as a choreographer and worked as a teaching assistant to Judith Jamison of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre during Jamison’s Detroit residencies.
Tickets for “The Spirit of Harriet Tubman” are free for SUNY Oswego students, $12 for alumni, $20 for the general public, and $5 for other students. Tickets are available via any campus box office or tickets.oswego.edu.
For more information on this performance and other performing arts events, visit oswego.edu/artswego.
-- Written by Keila Aquino-Lobato of the Class of 2025