The Ensemble Theatre presents Too Heavy for Your Pocket, by Jiréh Breon Holder and directed by Eileen J. Morris. The play is a beautifully written look at the personal cost and private struggles behind public events and speaks powerfully about the bonds of friendship and what defines true family.  

Holder, inspired by the movies Selma and The Butler, began his own research into the times and received a first-hand perspective from his grandmother who was a child during the Civil Rights Movement. Her account of a man she considered having thrown his education away to become a Freedom Rider resonated with Holder who was in college as the Black Lives Matter Movement was happening and struggled to decide where he fit into things.

“I’m excited by the thought of what happens when something huge is happening politically and we have to make the decision (to) participate in the macro or still continue our lives day-to-day on the micro level?” said Holder. “The play is really about a guy who was in a similar position as me and having to make the same decision.”

In rural Tennessee at the height of the Civil Rights Movement, two young couples struggle to understand justice, love, and their own responsibilities. When Bowzie gets a scholarship to attend Fisk University, he has the opportunity to improve his family’s life. His education goes beyond the classroom as he becomes a Freedom Rider and joins the fight against racism in the Deep South, leaving his obligations as a husband and friend behind.

Featured cast members include Kendrick “KayB” Brown as Bowzie Brandon), Yunina Barbour-Payne as Sally-Mae Carter), Kedrick Brown as Tony Carter and LaKeisha Randle as Evelyn Branson.

Previews are scheduled January 19, 20 and 23 with opening night and a media reception on Thursday, January 24 at 6:30 p.m. The show runs January 24 through February 24. Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. Fridays, 8 p.m. Saturdays, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Sundays, 3 p.m. Tickets prices are $23 to $50 and are available online at EnsembleHouston.com. The Ensemble Theatre is located at 3535 Main Street, Houston, Texas 77002. For more information, please call 713-520-0055.