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The Malaga Ship: a Story of Maine and the Middle Passage is coming to Roanoke

Writer's picture: Clinton AtwaterClinton Atwater


Join us in bringing an extraordinary cultural and educational experience to Roanoke. On Saturday, March 15th, we will be hosting The Malaga Ship: A Story of Maine and the Middle Passage, featuring award-winning storyteller Antonio Rocha. This powerful performance sheds light on an often-overlooked part of history, using mime, song, and narration to transport audiences on a deeply moving journey.

The Malaga Ship was a brig built in Maine in the early 1800s and used to traffic Africans to the Americas, particularly Brazil. Antonio Rocha’s connection to this story is profoundly personal:

"I could not believe the coincidences between the ship and myself. She was built in Maine and went to Brazil to bring to my home country part of my ancestry. I was born in Brazil and came to Maine, where I learned to be a storyteller. The more I read about Malaga, the more I realized I was born to tell her story." — Antonio Rocha

Following the 45-minute performance, Antonio will engage the audience in a 30-minute discussion, providing deeper insights into the Middle Passage and his creative process. This dialogue enriches the experience, fostering understanding and reflection.

Why Your Support Matters

Bringing this performance to our community requires financial support, and we hope you will consider becoming a sponsor. Your sponsorship will help cover event costs, including venue rental, artist fees, and outreach efforts to ensure broad community participation. Your support will also contribute to:

  • Cultural Enrichment: This performance offers a unique opportunity to experience history through storytelling, emphasizing the importance of preserving our shared past.

  • Community Engagement: The event will bring together diverse members of our community, encouraging unity and dialogue.

  • Educational Impact: Students and educators will gain valuable insights into history, storytelling, and non-verbal communication.

  • Strengthening the Arts Scene: Sponsoring this event helps position Roanoke as a hub for high-quality cultural programming.

How You Can Help

We would love you to consider supporting this event in one or more of the following ways:

  • Sponsorship: Join as a financial sponsor and enjoy benefits such as community recognition, event visibility, and branding opportunities.

  • Spreading the Word: Share this event with your network to help us reach a broader audience.  Share the video trailer and podcast about the show to experience Antonio Rocha’s mesmerizing storytelling.

This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact and support the arts, education, and cultural awareness in our community. We invite you to check out Antonio Rocha’s video trailer and podcast to experience his mesmerizing storytelling firsthand.

Event Details:The Malaga Ship: a Story of Maine and the Middle PassageFeaturing Antonio RochaSaturday, March 15th at 7:00 PM(Doors open at 6:30 PM)CommUNITY ARTS Reach3025 Frontier Rd NWRoanoke, VA 24012

Tickets are priced to promote inclusivity and community connection while supporting the performing arts.

We would be delighted to discuss how we can tailor a sponsorship opportunity that aligns with your organization’s values and goals. Please feel free to reach out at your earliest convenience.

Thank you for your time and consideration. Together, we can create an unforgettable cultural experience for our community.

Sincerely,Clinton B. AtwaterStorytelling Connections, LLCMobile:  540.798.5684

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