A Night of Reflection and Artistry in Redlands
History has a way of echoing through the generations, reminding us of the courage and vision that shape our world. On August 28, 1963, the world witnessed one of the most pivotal moments in the fight for civil rights: the March on Washington, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his legendary “I Have a Dream” speech.
To keep this spirit alive, Phill Courtney of Redlands is hosting a special summer edition of the Inland Empire Almanac. This unique variety show will serve as a heartfelt tribute to the events of August 28, 1963, blending personal history, poetry, and music in a community-driven celebration.
Living History: Voices of the Movement
The evening will be anchored by powerful testimonials from those who bridge the gap between the past and present. Attendees will have the rare opportunity to hear from the “Amazing Octogenarians,” including:
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- Louis Armmand: A former lawyer and teacher who was just 19 years old when he stood among the crowds during the 1963 March on Washington. Armmand will share his firsthand memories of that transformative day.
- Richard Gordon: The 89-year-old poet and playwright from Lake Elsinore, who will move the audience with a recitation of his poignant poem, “Martin and the Mountaintop.”
A Diverse Showcase of Talent
Beyond the historical reflections, the Inland Empire Almanac is known for its eclectic mix of performances. This edition will feature:
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- Classical Drama: Local actor Mark Branyon will bring the timeless words of William Shakespeare to the stage.
- Melodic Harmony: Musical contributions from Edie Rens (piano) and Kirk Udvardi (saxophone).
- Soulful Songs: Singer-songwriter Gilman Carver will perform classics, including “If I Had a Hammer,” a song that echoed through the crowds on August 28, 1963, famously performed by Peter, Paul and Mary.
Event Details and Community Impact
This gathering is not just about art—it is about community and compassion. The event is free of charge, though donations are warmly accepted to support the center’s initiatives for the homeless and other vital local projects.
🕕 Social Hour & Dinner: 6:00 p.m.
🕖 Show Starts: 7:00 p.m.
📍 Where: Redlands Center for the Realization of Spirit, 602 N. Church St.
The evening kicks off with a social hour featuring dinner provided by Dawgs 4 Dogs—a business with a heart, donating half of its proceeds to the Redlands Animal Shelter. Guests are also welcome to bring potluck dishes to share.
Get Involved
For more information about the show, you can contact Phill Courtney at 909-798-1451 or via email at pjcourtney1311@gmail.com. To learn more about the venue, visit the Redlands Center for the Realization of Spirit at crsredlands.org.
