DOTHAN – Follow a musical voyage to justice Sunday, April 2, as the Troy University Gospel Singers present The Verdict. The historical production, which is loosely based on the Emmett Till story, will come to life at 3 p.m. in Sony Hall on the Dothan Campus.

The musical opens with a chilling look back at the slave trade, according to Lewis Webb, Gospel Singers director. In Act II, Till, an African American man from Chicago, visits family in Money, Mississippi, where he is beaten to death for allegedly “flirting” with a white woman. The jury finds the confessed killers not guilty, sparking the Civil Rights Movement.

“The production is important because it shows the racial divide where we started,” Webb said, “and the racial harmony or unity we have achieved today. It is filled with dance and rousing musical numbers. It is a show everyone will enjoy.”

More than 40 singers will stage the production, which is sponsored by the Troy University John M. Long School of Music and Student Support Services. The show will feature haunting spirituals by noted composers including William Dawson, Thomas Dorsey, Moses Hogan and Raymond Wise. Gospel numbers by New Breed and Kirk Franklin will also be presented.

Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for students. Children 6 and under get in free. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the March of Dimes. To purchase tickets or for more information, e-mail tugospelsingers@yahoo.com or contact Student Support Services at (334) 983-6556, ext. 1-215.

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