People sitting at a diner counter with ketchup and mustard bottles, wearing vintage clothing, with large white text overlay reading 'WHEN THE DISTRICT'.

A play by Mark E. Leib

“THIS PLAY INSPIRES EMPATHY. IT TOUCHES PEOPLE IN THE GUT, THE HEART.”

— Former Congressman Jim Davis

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ABOUT

STORY

HISTORY

NEWS

cREATIVE TEAM

DOCUMENTARY

“A THRILL RIDE THROUGH TAMPA HISTORY”

— Creative Loafing Tampa Bay

  • "WRT depicted the history of black people in Florida in a way where the audience is simply in awe of the fact that the events happened. The experience felt very real, almost as if we had travelled back in time to view the events unfolding. I would happily watch this play again."

    -Nadia, 11th grade

  • “It was an emotional and engaging experience. It felt like we were living in the timeframe of the actual sit-in.”

    -Fay Noil, School Counselor

  • “The play was an incredible experience. The history was fascinating and the message was so inspiring. I feel so lucky to have had the opportunity to learn about such an important event that is very personal to all of us who live in Tampa.”

    -Lilly, 10th Grade

  • “The play, When the Righteous Triumph, was an outstanding performance, and I personally liked how the actors would sometimes talk to the audience as if we were the other half of the diner, and as if we were part of the play as well. Everything definitely felt as it was meant to be set in the 1960’s, and it accurately represented that time period and how the blacks fought for their rights, no matter what happened.”

    -Annalise, 9th Grade

  • "While watching the play, I was deeply moved by how each of the actors portrayed the fight and desire for equality. It was disturbing to know just how accurate many of the depictions of racism and discrimination were. The actor's dedication is truly admirable."

    -Madison, Grade 9

  • "It was such an amazing play; the story was captivating and the characters felt so real. Every action had a consequence, and every setback had an opportunity. I really enjoyed the show. Thank you for putting on a great performance."

    -Tucker, Grade 9