NEW BERN CIVIC THEATER BRINGS BACK A SPECIAL PERFORMANCE OF “DIARY OF A MOTHER”

On Saturday, April 12, 2025, New Bern Civic Theater and Tried By Fire, Inc. are pleased to present “The Diary of a Mother” for a repeat performance in our community. This original play by Jones County native Robert Brock, has cast New Bern’s own exceptionally gifted Gospel performer and vocalist, Bonita Burney Simmons, in the starring role. Other actors in this special production include singer and film/television actor Quincy Grant, television actor Minyon Thomas, and Robert Brock. Two performances will be offered that day – an afternoon matinee at 2:00 PM and the evening performance at 6:00 PM.

This deeply inspiring musical stage show is particularly appropriate to recognize April’s designation as National Second Chance Month. Tried By Fire, Inc. believes our current criminal justice system must offer meaningful opportunities for rehabilitation and redemption. By focusing on prevention, reentry assistance, and a social support system, particularly for justice-involved women, we can reduce recidivism, reduce homelessness, and strengthen our communities by lifting those who have made mistakes, but are committed to rejoining society as responsible and contributing citizens. “The Diary of a Mother” is a unique fundraiser to benefit Tried By Fire, Inc.’s program at My Sister’s House, a transitional home here in New Bern that provides safe and supportive shelter to women, post-incarceration, so they have better opportunities for a successful reentry experience and a positive reunification with their children and families.

The special afternoon matinee at 2 PM is open to young people as well as the public. It is being held in memory of Kathleen McLean Turner, a devoted mother, civic leader, and active church woman. She was president of the PTA at Brinson Memorial School, a Girl Scout leader for more than a decade, and president of New Bern's Little Theatre.

Tickets for the 2 pm matinee are $25. VIP tickets for the 6pm evening show are $53, and General Admission are $38. Limited seating is available and going fast. Tickets can be purchased online at www.NewBernCivicTheatre.org.

We are particularly pleased to recognize the support of the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. Grassroots projects such as this provide residents in Craven County with arts experiences that spark creativity and imagination as well as contribute to our local economy by involving professional artists and local vendors.