Voices of Dissent

Directed by Anthony Arnove, Voices of Dissent combines dramatic readings with live musical performances to bring the words of ordinary people throughout U.S. history to life. The performance features acclaimed actor David Strathairn, an Academy Award nominee for his portrayal of Edward R. Murrow in Good Night, and Good Luck. and an Emmy Award winner for Temple Grandin; acclaimed singer-songwriter Allison Moorer, an Oscar and Grammy-nominated artist known for her Americana songwriting and powerful storytelling; and Thornetta Davis, the award-winning Detroit vocalist known as the ​“Queen of Detroit Blues.” Drawing from letters, diaries, speeches, and songs, Voices of Dissent includes accounts from Ann Arbor, the University of Michigan, and across the state. Through a collaboration with the University of Michigan’s Inclusive History Project, the production incorporates archival materials and local histories from the University’s archives at Bentley Historical Library and the Labadie Collection that illuminate the experiences of people who have fought for justice, equality, and freedom. 

Inspired by the work of historian Howard Zinn (1922−2010), the production is based on A People’s History of the United States, which has sold more than five million copies, and Voices of a People’s History of the United States, co-edited by Zinn and Arnove. By connecting these powerful historical voices to the present day, Voices of Dissent reminds audiences that the struggle for justice is ongoing and that democracy depends on the participation of everyday people.

Anthony Arnove is the editor of several books, including Voices of a People’s History of the United States, which he co-edited with Howard Zinn, and Voices of a People’s History of the United States in the 21^st Century, which he co-edited with Haley Pessin. He also wrote the introduction to the 35^th anniversary edition of Zinn’s classic book A People’s History of the United States. Arnove cofounded the nonprofit education and arts organization Voices of a People’s History of the United States; co-wrote, co-directed, and co-produced the documentary The People Speak; and has directed stage and television versions of The People Speak in Dublin with Stephen Rea, in London with Colin Firth, and across the United States with various arts groups, including Lincoln Center, the Brooklyn Academy of Music, and the Sundance Film Festival. He also produced the Academy Award – nominated documentary Dirty Wars.

In partnership with the Inclusive History Project, with and support from the U‑M Ford School of Public Policy, U.S. at 250 and the U‑M Initiative for Democracy & Civic Empowerment. 

Series presenting partners: Detroit PBS, ALL ARTS, and PBS Books. Media partner: Michigan Public.