Some stories are too remarkable to stay in the history books.
This week, the Arkansas Repertory Theatre will bring one of Arkansas’ most extraordinary figures to the stage with the world premiere of “The Remarkable Resignation of Dr. Joycelyn Elders,” opening Tuesday, Aug. 11, as part of The Rep’s 50th season.
Written and directed by the theater’s artistic director Steve H. Broadnax III, the new play with music follows Dr. M. Joycelyn Elders’ journey from a sharecropper’s daughter in rural Arkansas to the first African American and only the second woman to serve as U.S. surgeon general.
Born in 1933 in Schaal, Arkansas, Elders was the eldest of eight children. She grew up working in the cotton fields and did not see a doctor until she was 16. After attending Philander Smith College, she earned her medical degree from the UAMS in 1960 and went on to become a pioneering pediatric endocrinologist.
Her career eventually brought her to the Arkansas Department of Health, where then-Gov. Bill Clinton appointed her director in 1987. There, she advocated for expanded prenatal care, childhood immunizations, home-care services and comprehensive health education while speaking openly about issues that were often considered controversial.
In 1993, President Clinton appointed Elders as the 15th surgeon general of the United States. During her approximately 15 months in the role, she continued to advocate for evidence-based public health policies and comprehensive health education, often challenging the nation to confront subjects it preferred to avoid. Her outspoken positions generated national controversy and ultimately led to her resignation in December 1994.
But “The Remarkable Resignation of Dr. Joycelyn Elders” isn’t simply a retelling of those headlines. It’s a play about courage, not controversy.
Through humor and heart, the production explores the woman behind the public figure, examining her convictions, career and willingness to speak plainly about public health, education, reproductive rights, healthcare access and the complicated relationship between science and politics.
At the center of the story is a question that feels as relevant today as it did during Elders’ time in public office: What does it cost to tell the truth?
The production also offers audiences a chance to step beyond the stage. A mini historic gallery in The Rep’s lobby will feature photographs, archival materials and historical information highlighting key moments from Elders’ life and career.
“The Remarkable Resignation of Dr. Joycelyn Elders” runs Aug. 11-29. Pay-What-You-Can preview performances will be held Tuesday, Aug. 11, and Wednesday, Aug. 12. Tickets for the previews must be purchased in person at The Rep’s Box Office, 601 Main St., on Tuesday, Aug. 11, from 9-10:30 a.m.
Regular performances will be held Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7 p.m.; Fridays at 8 p.m.; Saturdays at 2 and 8 p.m.; and Sundays at 3 p.m.
For more information about “The Remarkable Resignation of Dr. Joycelyn Elders” or to purchase tickets, visit The Rep website or call 501.378.0405. Follow along on Facebook and Instagram for the latest.
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