‍160 years ago, Memphis burned.

In May 1866—just one year after the Civil War ended—white mobs attacked the Black community of South Memphis over three days of terror. 46 Black people were killed. 91 homes burned. 12 schools destroyed. 4 churches razed. Black women were raped. An entire community was devastated.

It was called a "riot." It was a massacre.

DUST tells the story of the people who lived it.

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ABOUT THE WORKSHOP

This workshop presentation marks a major milestone in the development of DUST—an original musical five years in the making. Audiences will experience the work-in-progress as it moves toward full production, witnessing the story take shape through song, movement, and testimony.

This is not a polished production. This is a glimpse into the creative process—raw, evolving, and rooted in truth. Your presence and feedback are part of how this work grows.

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WHY NOW

May 1–3, 2026 marks the 160th anniversary of the Memphis Massacre. AUD Collective presents this workshop as an act of remembrance, resistance, and reclamation.

The Memphis Massacre helped spark the passage of the 14th Amendment and reshaped Reconstruction—but most Memphians have never heard of it. DUST exists to change that.

WHAT TO EXPECT

• A 60–90 minute workshop presentation of the musical
• Original music, live performance, and staged readings
• Post-show community conversation with the creative team
• An opportunity to witness Memphis history come to life

SCHEDULE

Thursday, May 1  | Opening Candle Light Vigil

Friday, May 2  | Evening Performance

Saturday, May 3  | Closing Matinee + Community Conversation

Venue details will be announced soon. All performances will take place in downtown Memphis.

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TICKETS

General Admission $20

Student / Artist $10

Pay What You Can Available at the door

Season subscribers receive priority seating and early access.

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ABOUT THE MUSICAL

DUST follows a community of freedpeople in South Memphis as they build new lives in the aftermath of slavery—only to face a coordinated assault on everything they've created. Through the eyes of those who survived, the musical explores memory, resilience, and the cost of Black joy in America.

Written and directed by Cleavon Meabon, IV. Developed with the AUD Collective.

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SUPPORT THE WORK

DUST is on a trajectory toward full production and beyond. Your ticket purchase, donations, and word-of-mouth support help bring this Memphis story to stages across the country.

Interested in sponsoring or investing in the development of DUST? Contact us at connect@theaudcollective.org.

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REGISTER / GET TICKETS

DUST is a production of AUD Collective, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in downtown Memphis. This workshop presentation is made possible by the support of our community and THE AUDACIOUS, our sustaining members.

We remember. We tell. We rise.

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