James Earl Jones
  

James Earl Jones and Manistee Civic Players Executive Director Ron Steinberg
- James Earl Jones with Civic Players Board Member Peggy Futterer and Ramsdell "Ambassador" Anne Wittig
Photo courtesy of Concerned Citizens for the Arts in Michigan
James Earl Jones signing books in Asssembly Hall
  "When I was a stage carpenter," says former Manistee Civic Player James Earl Jones (affectionately known as Todd Jones by friends and fellow players) "and they discovered that I really wanted to storm the stage playing Shakespeare, they let me try." Storm the stage he did, repeating the Othello role he first played at the Ramsdell many times in later years to world-wide acclaim. He then went on to develop one of the most recognizable voices in the entertainment media today, and to collect Tony and Emmy Awards and an Academy Award nomination.

Right: Portrait of James Earl Jones during his 1956 initial Othello role at the Ramsdell Theatre. Painted by Manistee Artist Gertrude Armstrong. On permanent display at the Ramsdell Theatre. Gift of Mr. & Mrs. David Carlson

A 1949 graduate of Brethren, MI High School, longtime Manistee area residents remember James Earl Jones as an outstanding student and athlete, excelling in both forensics and track.

Jones was a member of the Manistee Summer Theatre Company at the Ramsdell Theatre during the 1953, 1955, 1956 and 1957 seasons. He was listed in the programs as Todd Jones -- a name still used by his Manistee friends and summer theatre coworkers. He held many jobs with the group: master carpenter, Assistant Stage Manager and Stage Manager, directed a Children's Theatre play and acted in twenty-eight productions.

Voices and Silences

Because of his love for the Ramsdell Theatre, James Earl Jones held the first public signing of his book, "VOICES and SILENCES" at the Ramsdell Theatre in August 1993. The turnout of his friends from the 1950's and new admirers was overwhelming. Many waited in line for several hours to greet Mr. Jones, renew old friendships and obtain his signature on the initial public release of his book. The line stretched from the far end of the second floor assembly hall, down the stairs, through the main theatre lobby and outside for one block.
         
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