Hoboken HS Hosts ‘Fortune’ Playwright For Black History Month

HOBOKEN, NJ — Hoboken High School recently hosted “Fortune” playwright George Cameron Grant in honor of Black History Month.

According to a news release from the school, the internationally produced and award-winning playwright spoke to students and answered their questions about the person and true story behind his play.

During the special event – which celebrated the contributions and achievements of African Americans - students Brandon Lyons and Demeara Davenport from Hoboken High School's award-winning theater program presented on stage and read excerpts from the play.

The Hoboken High School Chorus contributed to the celebration with spiritual hymns including “Follow The Drinking Gourd.”

Grant told students that he first felt compelled to write Fortune’s story after coming across her unmarked grave during a midnight grave tour while on vacation in Annapolis Royal, Canada.

“Rose Fortune was an extraordinary courageous woman who refused to accept failure as an option, no as an answer or despair as a destiny,” Grant said. “It was my pleasure to share her remarkable story and celebrate the many achievements of African-Americans, like Rose’s with Hoboken High School students.”

“We were thrilled to host Mr. Grant to Hoboken High School for this year’s first event for Black History Month,” Hoboken High School Principal Robin Piccapietra said. “Rose Fortune’s story is testament to the resilience and the ability of an individual to overcome seemingly impossible odds to achieve success. Organized by our acclaimed theatre director, Danielle Miller the powerful lesson by Mr. Grant is part of our commitment to giving students a unique and engaging learning experiences that goes beyond textbooks.”

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Photo: Hoboken High School