‘Deep Greenwood Ignited’ returns to Tulsa to tell the full story of Black Wall Street | News

TULSA, Okla. — A stage production exploring the history of Black Wall Street is returning to Tulsa this weekend, with playwright Mia Walter hoping audiences leave with a deeper understanding of Greenwood’s resilience as they celebrate Juneteenth.

“Deep Greenwood Ignited: The Hidden Truth of Black Wall Street” traces the rise of Greenwood from its founding through the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre before ending with the rebuilding of the historic district.

While many people know the tragedy of the massacre, Walter said she wanted to tell the story that came after.

“I thought it was super important to add that rebuilding of the community because when I learned about it, I never knew that they actually rebuilt after it was burned,” Walter said. “Most of the time you hear about the massacre and it’s like the end. But that was not the end. Please tell the rest of these people’s story.”

Walter first learned about the Tulsa Race Massacre in high school after hearing from a descendant whose family lost its business during the violence. Years later, as both an actor and playwright, she decided that story deserved to be told on stage.

“I heard her side of that story, and it was very powerful,” Walter said. “I was like, ‘You know what? I can tell that story.'”

Beginning in 2013, Walter spent a year and a half researching Greenwood’s history. She dug into historical records and studied the people who shaped the district, including founders O.W. Gurley and J.B. Stratford.

“They were very instrumental in making that happen,” Walter said. “They came together with a vision of buying land and creating opportunities for Black entrepreneurs.”

Walter said she also researched the backgrounds of those involved on both sides of the massacre, allowing the play to present multiple historical perspectives.

Beyond the history, the production features singing, swing dancing and tap dancing to recreate the vibrant culture that once filled Greenwood.

“I want them to go on this emotional roller coaster,” Walter said. “I want them to understand the importance of unity and understand that you may get knocked down, but you can still get back up and thrive.”

This marks the second time “Deep Greenwood Ignited” has been performed in Tulsa. Walter said she intentionally brought it back during the Juneteenth holiday.

“I’ve been wanting to bring it back to Tulsa,” she said. “I’ve always wanted to do something big for Juneteenth, so I thought, ‘Why not combine the two?'”

She hopes people of all backgrounds attend the performances, especially young people.

“I hope different communities come out and see it because it’s for everyone,” Walter said. “It’s really imperative for young people to see it so they can understand history. They may not always read about it, but seeing it come to life can educate them.”

Walter said returning to Tulsa is especially meaningful because of the city’s connection to the history portrayed on stage.

“The community here and the history that lives here… my cast is so excited to be back in Tulsa,” she said.

“Deep Greenwood Ignited: The Hidden Truth of Black Wall Street” will be performed Saturday at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Maya Angelou Auditorium inside Central High School. Tickets are available through Eventbrite or can be purchased at the door.