Editor’s note: This story was updated Jan. 20.
The Playhouse at Anderson University will present “The Denmark Story,” by Scott Kirk, at the South Carolina Baptist Convention building on Jan. 24 at 9 a.m. (private show) and at Columbia College’s Spears Auditorium on Jan. 24 at 7 p.m. (open to the public).
Featuring faculty member Deborah McEniry in the lead role, “The Denmark Story” depicts the life of Annie Dove Denmark, Anderson University president from 1928-1953. In addition to being the first female college president in South Carolina, Denmark was the longest-serving president in the institution’s history.
Denmark was also one of the most intriguing figures in the history of the Anderson community, known statewide for her leadership when women were not usually such prominent figures.
The play is provided in part by the South Carolina Humanities Council and was commissioned as a part of Anderson University’s centennial celebration. The production will be touring throughout South Carolina during the next several weeks.
A university spokesperson said it is fitting that the play was performed at First Baptist Church of Anderson on Jan. 16, since leaders of that church, along with influential businessmen in Anderson, were instrumental in founding the university 100 years ago.– AU