Learn about the First Lady who grew up in Murfreesboro

Actress/theatrical producer Debbie Watts will bring to life Sarah Childress Polk, Murfreesboro native and wife of U.S. President James K. Polk at a free performance at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 4 at Linebaugh Library in Murfreesboro.

The Sarah Childress Polk excerpt is from a two-hour full musical play, Tennessee's First Ladies, which presents Watts portraying Rachel Jackson, Sarah Childress Polk, and Eliza Johnson, wives of the three U.S. Presidents from Tennessee, Andrew Jackson, James K. Polk and Andrew Johnson.

"I'm thrilled to be honoring Sarah Childress Polk in this special way, on this special day. September 4th happens to be her birthday," Watts said about the upcoming performance. "She was smart, beautiful, gracious, and politically savvy, the perfect wife for President Polk.

"I am presenting her as the intellectual and cultured young woman that she was," Watts continued, "complete with piano solos and singing during the presentation. I want teachers, students, parents, and anyone who is interested in Tennessee history to come out to the Linebaugh Library, and 'Meet Sarah Childress Polk.' The collection of scenes will be followed by a q and a session. Murfreesboro has much to be proud of, and Sarah Childress Polk is a glittering jewel in Murfreesboro's crown.'

"Meet Sarah Polk" is just one of the many historical stage plays produced by Tennessee Stage and Film Company. TSFC's mission is to 'take history to the stage,' in the form of musical stage productions. We also have study/discussion guides for teachers, CEO Tom Dolan said.

Another TSFC production, Ryman Diaries, the re-telling of the building of the Ryman Auditorium, will be presented Sept. 21-29 at the Center for the Arts in Murfreesboro.

For more information on "Meet Sarah Polk," "Tennessee's First Ladies," "The Ryman Diaries," and other productions by Tennessee Stage and Film Co., visit Watt's website.

Explore, Imagine, Engage through RCLS. For more information, call 615-893-4131 or visit www.rclstn.org.