THE DIARY OF ANNIE MAE FRANKLIN

by Crystal Rhodes

When an African American family harbors a Japanese American boy who escapes from a World War II detention camp in a small southern town, the family is faced with a dilemma. Should they face the possibility of treason charges or become complicit with the boy’s immoral imprisonment? While the debate rages, an unexpected act of violence sets the scene for impending disaster. With their backs against the wall...

When an African American family harbors a Japanese American boy who escapes from a World War II detention camp in a small southern town, the family is faced with a dilemma. Should they face the possibility of treason charges or become complicit with the boy’s immoral imprisonment? While the debate rages, an unexpected act of violence sets the scene for impending disaster. With their backs against the wall, and no justice in sight for their family or for the boy, they all become forced migrants, as they escape the south and head north.

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THE DIARY OF ANNIE MAE FRANKLIN

Recommended by

  • Eryn Elyse McVay: THE DIARY OF ANNIE MAE FRANKLIN by Crystal Rhodes
    “

    I am in awe of how Rhodes carefully navigates many facets of racism across communities without pulling punches. Rhodes' voice is clear and specific throughout. I devoured this play, needing to know what happened next; the dialogue leaps off the page, feeling real and lived-in. Produce this play!

    I am in awe of how Rhodes carefully navigates many facets of racism across communities without pulling punches. Rhodes' voice is clear and specific throughout. I devoured this play, needing to know what happened next; the dialogue leaps off the page, feeling real and lived-in. Produce this play!

    ”
OTIS FRANKLIN - 35 years old, but looks older. He is a proud, stern religious man, not well
educated, but he does read and write.
EDNA FRANKLIN - 32 years old, but looks older. She is a quiet, religious woman who is also illiterate.
MAGGIE FRANKLIN - 15 years old, she is academically gifted, feisty and defiant.*
ANNIE MAE FRANKLIN - 12 years old, quiet and studious, she doesn’t have her sister's boldness.*
CONNIE NOBLE - 25 years old, she is a highly educated school teacher. She is well spoken and she
is outspoken.
ADAM SATO - 14 year old Japanese American, bright, articulate, but confused and frghtened.*

*suggest the part be played by young looking adult

Development History

  • Reading, Obsidian Theatre Festival - Semi-Finalist, 2024
  • Reading, American Stage Theatre’s 21st Century Voices New Play Festival , 2019
  • Reading, National Black Theatre Festival, 2017