⚔ Washington, D.C. – Dennis Rowe Entertainment’s production of Port Chicago 50 celebrated Black History Month 2026 with two powerful performances at the Atlas Performing Arts Center. Located along the lively H Street Northeast corridor, just steps from the very halls of power where the Port Chicago Sailors were formally exonerated in 2024, the Atlas provided a stage that was both culturally vibrant and symbolically profound. For two unforgettable nights, the theater became a national space for remembrance, reflection, and recognition of courage and civil rights.

Described as “A stirring tale of love for country, the pursuit of the American Dream, and the fight for equality and justice,” the play brought to life the story of the fifty Black American Sailors who stood up in protest, refusing to continue loading munitions under the same hazardous and segregated conditions that led to the devastating Port Chicago explosion during World War II.

From left: Sean Coffey, 24th General Counsel of the Navy; Captain Justin Pilling; Dennis Rowe; Carlos Del Toro, 78th Secretary of the Navy

An Opening of Historic Significance

Before the curtain rose, the evening took on the tone of a historic commemoration.

Distinguished leaders whose vision and resolve made possible the 2024 exoneration of the Port Chicago 50 were in attendance, with several taking the stage to lend the evening profound significance, and anchoring the performance in both history and justice. Among them was the 78th Secretary of the Navy, Carlos Del Toro, whose historic leadership culminated in the formal exoneration of the Sailors. Joining him was the 24th General Counsel of the Navy, John P. "Sean" Coffey, whose recommendation to set aside the original convictions came after an exhaustive legal review conducted with his then–Executive Assistant and Special Counsel, Captain Justin Pilling. Captain Pilling, who identified the legal basis that ultimately cleared the way for exoneration, addressed the audience as well.

Their remarks framed the play not merely as a retelling of past injustice, but as a living testament to accountability and institutional growth. For many in the audience, this convergence of art, history, and contemporary redress created a rare and powerful moment.

A Night of Art and Accountability

The performances on February 6 and 7 were more than theatrical events; they elevated the legacy of the Sailors, and ensured that their story remains central to conversations about justice, equity, and accountability within the United States military.

For those in attendance, the evening was a reminder that the story of the Port Chicago 50 is not confined to 1944. It continues to evolve, shaped by artists, advocates, public servants, and communities determined to ensure that courage, once questioned, is now honored. ⚑

Port Chicago 50 is co-written, produced, and directed by Dennis Rowe, co-written by David Shackelford, and presented by Dennis Rowe Entertainment in collaboration with Showbiz Kids Foundation. The production featured members of the original cast reprising their roles, including Cedric Darius as Spencer, David Shackelford as Younger Freddie, and Andrew R. Cooksey as Older Freddie.

Learn more at PortChicago50play.com