February One: The Story of the Greensboro Four and Breaking the Booth (Double Feature)

On this remarkable day, February 1, in the year 1960, four college freshmen changed American history. This film depicts Ezell Blair, David Richmond, Franklin McCain and Joseph McNeil—the “Greensboro Four”—as they began a sit-in at a Woolworth’s lunch counter in Greensboro, North Carolina. The restaurant refused service to patrons of color. This demonstration is considered one of the pivotal moments in the American civil rights movement. In the film, protesters recount how the idea for the sit-in grew out of their late-night talks in campus dorms, and how the decision to act changed their lives and history forever. (runtime – 60 minutes) 

Breaking the Booth                                                                                                              

Before the marches, before the headlines—there were movie tickets. Set in early 1960s Durham, North Carolina, “Breaking the Booth” shines a light on a little-known chapter of the Civil Rights Movement: the local protests to desegregate the Carolina Theatre of Durham. Through intimate interviews, rarely seen archival footage, and cinematic vérité, the film captures how a segregated ticket booth became a flashpoint for resistance. It’s a story about fighting to be seen, told by those who refused to sit in silence. (runtime- 30 minutes) 

 TEACHING GUIDE

NC Standard Course of Study Connections:  

Social Studies Standards 3–12 

• 4.H.1 — Analyze the chronology of key historical events in North Carolina 

• 4.H.2 — Understand how notable individuals contributed to the heritage of North Carolina 

• 5.C&G.1 — Understand the development of democratic principles (equal rights, justice) 

• 8.H.3 — Understand factors that contribute to change and continuity in the United States 

• 8.C&G.1 — Analyze democratic ideals and constitutional principles (civil rights, equal protection, nonviolent protest) 

• 8.C.1 — Understand how democratic values shape American culture and civic life 

• AH1.H.4 — Analyze the Civil Rights Movement (sit-in movement, student activism, nonviolent direct action, local civil rights history)
• AH1.H.3 — Understand how various groups have shaped American identity (African American freedom struggle, youth activism)
• AH1.C&G.1 — Analyze how citizens have influenced government and political systems (grassroots organizing, civil disobedience, legislative change)
• AH2.H.1 — Understand the evolution of civil rights and social justice movements 

ELA Standards 6–12 

• RI.6.3, RI.7.3, RI.8.3 — Analyze how individuals, events, and ideas develop and interact
• RI.6.6, RI.7.6, RI.8.6 — Determine author’s point of view and how it is conveyed
• W.6.1, W.7.1, W.8.1 — Write arguments supported by clear reasoning and relevant evidence
• RI.9–10.3, RI.11–12.3 — Analyze complex historical events and how they unfold
• W.9–10.1, W.11–12.1 — Write arguments addressing social and historical issues 

Social–Emotional Learning 

• Social Awareness: Develop empathy and understanding of historical injustice and courage
• Responsible Decision-Making: Understand ethical decision-making in the face of unjust systems
• Civic Engagement: Recognize the power of youth activism and community action
• Self-Awareness: Reflect on personal values regarding justice, equality, and standing up for what is right

All Durham Public Schools reservations will be made by the school-designated Arts Liaison. The Arts Liaison was appointed by each school principal to coordinate this effort. Please contact your principal for further action.

Online reservations end five days prior to a performance date. Tickets will still be sold at the box office on the date of the event, dependent upon availability. Please email us for availability at efan@carolinatheatre.org.