Pauline Adamek
A new stage production exploring the personal side of Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King is preparing for a special live audience recording later this month in Los Angeles County.
Experiencing the Dream: MLK The Musical, written by Kesha L. Ealy and co-written and composed by Marcus S. Mason, will be recorded with a full live audience and a 27-piece orchestra on Friday, May 15, 2026 at 7 p.m. at Greater Emmanuel Temple in Lynwood.
Tickets and information are available at MLK Event Tickets.
The production features a 26-song score and aims to present a more intimate and human portrait of Dr. King—one that goes beyond the historic speeches and public triumphs to examine the emotional realities behind them. The story begins with the courtship of Martin and Coretta and expands to include key figures such as Mahalia Jackson, Ralph Abernathy, John Lewis, Bayard Rustin, and J. Edgar Hoover, among others.
Dr. King’s legacy remains deeply tied to defining moments like the March on Washington, where, as John Lewis once reflected, King “educated, inspired, and informed not just the people there, but people throughout America and unborn generations.”
“When I look at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King, I don’t just see them as icons—I see two people who had to wrestle with fear, pressure, and the weight of purpose,” she said. “This story is about restoring the true power of love—not passive love, but love that stands firm in the face of hatred.” Writer by Kesha L. Ealy.
Composer Mason described a decade-long journey to bring the project to life, originally collaborating with producer LeRoy Parker before Parker’s death from pancreatic cancer. Mason continued the work, driven by a sense of responsibility to complete the vision.
“I want the audience to experience the human side of Dr. King,” Mason said, noting that the musical underscores King’s youth and vulnerability as much as his courage. “The songs are intentional in delivering that experience.”
The production also seeks to resonate with modern audiences. Ealy emphasized that today’s viewers are searching for authenticity and connection, rather than distant historical reverence. “If people can see themselves in this story,” she said, “then it becomes more than history—it becomes a calling.”
The live recording will feature musical direction by William Taylor, with orchestrations by Fellipe Paccagnella, vocal arrangements by Tony Jones, and orchestra direction by Leon Lacy. The cast includes Eric Dawkins as Dr. King and Celeste Butler-Clayton as Coretta Scott King, alongside a supporting ensemble portraying pivotal figures of the Civil Rights Movement.
With its blend of music, storytelling, and historical perspective, Experiencing the Dream: MLK The Musical aims to reframe one of America’s most enduring legacies—not as a closed chapter, but as an ongoing story.
Experiencing the Dream MLK THE MUSICAL
A Live Audience Recording
Written by Kesha L. Ealy
Music by Marcus S. Mason
Date: Friday, May 15, 2026 at 7PM
Venue: Greater Emmanuel Temple
Address: 3740 East Imperial Highway. Lynwood, CA 90262
Tickets and info at: MLK Event Tickets.
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Biographies
Dr. Marcus S. Mason was born the seventh of 13 children to Bishop Moses and JoAnn Mason and has travelled the United States extensively as a child with his brothers and sisters. While growing up, Dr. Mason began playing the organ for his father’s church. His passion fueled him to advance his skills as a Praise & Worship leader, Minister of Music, with the dream of one day writing his own music and becoming an international Gospel singer. After many years of college, Dr. Mason received his master’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Christian Education. He eventually finished with his PhD in Christian Counseling with a minor in Theology.
Dr. Mason has had the privilege of working with some of the most profound Bishops, Pastors, and Artists throughout the world including Bishop T.D. Jakes, Juanita Bynum, Pastor Benny Hinn, Yolanda Adams, Fred Hammond, Bishop Iona Locke, Teddy Riley, MC Lyte, Rodney Perry, Vickie Winans, T-Pain, Donnie McClurkin, Promise Keepers, Tiny “Zeus” Lister, Mark Jackson, and countless others.
Dr. Mason has released his first project entitled “The Altar Call” which has won him numerous awards such as: People Choice Award, Best Male Vocalist, Legendary and Prestige Award. Mason released his second album in October, 2023, entitled “Resounding Praise,” which showcases some amazing new music from the heart of God’s Chosen.
Kesha Lynette Ealy, a proud member of Generation X, was raised in the Church of God in Christ. Born in Long Beach, California, she is the second of three children to Bishop Joe L. Ealy and the late First Lady Betty Louise Ealy. From an early age, Kesha’s musical talents were evident. By age ten, she had dedicated her life to the Lord, and at twelve, her musical journey began, highlighting her anointed voice and theatrical skills.
Recognized by celebrities like Mable King and Esther Rolle, Kesha was chosen as the celebrity youth representative for the Sickle Cell Foundation. By nineteen, she was already teaching vocals and directing choirs. Her career flourished at 21, singing background for renowned artists such as Michael Bolton and Gloria Estefan.
In 1993, Kesha joined the Kurt Carr Singers, contributing to albums like “Serious About It” and “ One Else.” After five years, she shifted her focus to acting and starred in David E. Talbert’s hit stage play Mr. Right Now, alongside Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs. This marked her foray into professional acting, leading her to a duet with Stevie Wonder titled “Fire” for a Japanese coffee commercial.
In 2001, Kesha relocated to Osaka, Japan, under a one-year contract with Universal Studios, where she portrayed the role of Aretha Franklin in the Blues Brothers show. After three years abroad, she returned to the U.S. in 2004 and continued her vocal work, contributing to movie soundtracks like “Dreamgirls” and “First Sunday,” as well as performing with notable artists such as Bebe Winans, Chaka Khan, and Natalie Cole.
With over 20 years of experience in the entertainment industry, she remains dedicated to her faith, her music, and her evolving career in both the sacred and secular worlds.
