Black History Event 2026

Black Dresses in the White House

A Celebration of Trailblazing African-American Designers and Their Legendary First Ladies

The Lawton Fort Sill Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Lawton Public Schools, proudly presents Black Dresses in the White House—an original theatrical production celebrating the legacy, creativity, and cultural impact of pioneering African-American fashion designers and the First Ladies who wore their designs.

Written by local author Paula Bowen and produced in collaboration with Kimberly Jones, this powerful stage play blends history, fashion, and storytelling to honor Black excellence and artistic influence at the highest levels of American history.

The production will take place Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the Eisenhower Middle School Auditorium. Doors open at 6:00 p.m., and admission is free and open to the public, reflecting the Chamber’s commitment to inclusive access to arts, culture, and community enrichment.

As part of this exciting project, the Chamber is hosting an open audition call on Thursday, January 16, 2026, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. at the Carnegie Library Town Hall (425 SW B Avenue). Auditions are open to ages 10 through adult, and participants should prepare a two-minute monologue.

Black Dresses in the White House is more than a performance—it is a celebration of heritage, creativity, and community, creating space for local voices to shine while honoring a powerful cultural legacy.

For additional information, please contact:
Jamie Southerland, Lawton Fort Sill Chamber of Commerce – 580-355-3541
Paula Bowen, Producer – 580-574-7531
Kimberly Jones, Producer – 580-483-9602