The Communique

Issue date: 1/26/06 Section: A&E

Media Credit: Patrick Donley Andre Samples of Mixed Blood Theatre re-enacts the last two days of Dr. Ronald McNair's life in Iowa Hall

On the eve of the 20th anniversary of the Challenger Disaster, the Mixed Blood Theatre performed the play "Black Eagle" at Kirkwood's main campus. The story is about Dr. Ronald McNair, one of seven American astronauts lost in the tragic explosion on Jan. 28, 1986.

The performance provided insight into the social, racial and personal issues in the life of Dr. McNair while keeping a humorous edge on controversial issues.

The scene of the story takes place in the office of McNair on Monday, Jan. 27, 1986, the day before the shuttle launched. He grows frustrated with the launching delays of the mission after it was postponed for the third day in a row and begins to record an audiotape in response to questions the children at an elementary school had sent him.

Through the tape recording, McNair tells his stories of perseverance, dedication and inspiration throughout his life and even explains some of the functions of the shuttle.

McNair's character was played by Andre Samples, a member of Mixed Blood Theatre, located in Minneapolis. Samples seemed passionate about his work and was candid with students after the performance.

"I can remember when the Challenger Disaster happened," Samples told a group of students. "I doubt you were old enough to remember it," he continued. When one young lady replied that she wasn't even born yet Samples just chuckled.

Warren Bowles, another member of Mixed Blood, wrote the play.

The theatre was established in 1976. It has dedicated itself to keeping the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s dream alive. Mixed Blood is a multi-racial theater company promoting cultural pluralism, individual equality and artistic excellence.

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