Functional: The Thelonious Monk Story

This full-length play presented by A Call to Conscience honors the musical genius of pianist and jazz composer Thelonious Sphere Monk and tackles the issues of mental illness as it relates to disparities in healthcare, police interaction, education, and social acceptance. This performance also recognizes the importance of creative self-expression through the arts and celebrate how Monk stood firm to pursue his music without compromise. Written by Mariah L. Richardson and directed by Fannie Belle Lebby, Functional: The Thelonious Monk Story stars Phillip “Dr. Philgood” Graves. Doors will open 30 minutes prior to start time. The play runs approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes with a brief intermission. Following the April 21 performance, all are invited to stay for a discussion with Professor Reginald “Reggie” Thomas, Head of Jazz Studies at Northern Illinois University School of Music.