Actors Theatre of Little Rock launched its second season in February with Katori Hall’s “The Mountaintop,” aiming to push boundaries and amplify diverse voices. 

The single-act play at Quapaw Quarter United Methodist Church in Little Rock presented a fictional account of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s last night, exploring themes of legacy and humanity.

 Nick Farr’s portrayal of King as a dedicated civil rights leader and a flawed individual anchored the performance, showcasing a blend of commitment and vulnerability. Alycya Thomas complemented this with her portrayal of Camae, a lively motel maid, whose standout moment—imagining herself advising King on his future speeches—added humor and insight. Their performances together highlighted the nuanced humanity of revered historical figures.

While King references his famous “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop” speech in the play, director Lamar Jamerson said the performance is far from a look back at the past. 

“The famous words they say in the show are ‘Live by love, die by hate.’ That really has a lot to do with today. We’re so divided about everything,” Jamerson said. “In reality, we all share one thing and it’s us being imperfect and being human.”