PRESS RELEASE

American Revolutionary hero comes to life in performance at IUK

KOKOMO, Ind. — Meet America’s first professional female soldier in a free immersive history experience at Indiana University Kokomo.
 
Deborah Samson, who disguised herself as a man to join patriot forces in the American Revolution, comes to life in A Revolution of Her Own! She will tell her incredible story at 10:30 a.m. Monday, March 3, in Havens Auditorium. 
 
Chancellor Mark Canada said he learned about the performer from a community member who saw her perform in Boston. 
 
“It’s a golden opportunity for IUK to introduce the story of Deborah Samson to our students, staff, and faculty, as well as our friends in the community,” he said. 
 
A Revolution of her Own! features Judith Kalaora, founder and artistic director of History at Play, in an immersive solo performance as Samson, the first woman to successfully enlist, professionally fight in, and be honorably discharged from the American military. The hour-long program chronicles her life. An indentured servant by age five, Samson grew up in a man's world, where women were second-class subjects. Without the ability to vote or own property, she knew options were limited; breaking the rules would be necessary to accomplish a greater goal in life. Kalaora’s performance helps the audience experience Samson’s arduous upbringing, one and a half years of active combat, and success as America’s first professional female soldier through interactive stories and authentic colonial attire. 
 
Kalaora established History at Play in 2010 to create enriching historical entertainment. A resident of Massachusetts, she graduated magna cum laude from Syracuse University and Shakespeare’s Globe Education Program of London. She has performed on international stages from London to Montreal, as well as venues across the United States. 



Admission is free, but RSVPs are requested here. School groups are also welcome and should RSVP to asiders@iu.edu.

For more information go to HistoryAtPlay.com.