Love Defined - A One-Woman Show, Narrated by Timothy Sam

The Books Along the Teche Literary Festival, in partnership with the Iberia African American Historical Society and Shadows on the Teche, will host a special Black History Month performance of Love Defined, an original one-woman play by Lafayette artist Gale Whiting, on Saturday, February 21, from 1:00–3:00 PM. The outdoor performance will take place on the front lawn of Shadows on the Teche.

Love Defined brings to life the voices and legacies of four iconic artists—Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Dinah Washington, and Sarah Vaughan—through an evocative solo performance. Written and produced by Whiting, the play celebrates the artistry, influence, and enduring cultural impact of these legendary women across jazz, blues, pop, and swing music.

The production features a narrator, Timothy Sam, and is presented in two acts and four scenes, guiding audiences through the stories and music that shaped generations.

This collaborative event highlights the power of storytelling and performance as a way to honor history and community, reflecting a shared commitment to celebrating Black history through the arts in meaningful and accessible ways.

Registration is required in advance. A suggested donation of $10–$15 per person will be collected at the event, with donations accepted onsite.

Whiting will also appear during the 2026 Books Along the Teche Literary Festival, held April 10–12 in New Iberia, as part of Voices of Jazz: A One-Woman Showcase on Saturday, April 11.

For more information or to register, visit bayoubookfest.com.