So You Want to Talk About Race Banned Books Festival

Directed by Charles Jackson Jr.

Produced in collaboration with The Writer's Garret

(February 19 – March 8, 2026)

We recently connected with Charles Jackson Jr. and have shared our conversation below.

When Jackson is directing, he works with the actors to come up with a detailed plan about how the actors will get into and out of the kiss — including how long the kiss should last.

The annual gala is a fundraising opportunity for patrons to support the productions and programs of the nationally recognized theater. The evening will include signature drinks, amazing artistry, live music, full dinner and a live auction. Following the festivities, DTC's Young Professionals Board will host the Gala after with event chairs DTCYP President Frankie Benzant and Vice-President Charles Jackson Jr. Music will be provided by DJ Unstable for an extended evening of fun, appetizers and dancing.

The 372 entries from 38 states and 8 countries were read and adjudicated twice, by professionals in the theatre industry: Robin Bennett (Atlanta), Helen Bessette (Indiana), Gregory Blair (Los Angeles), Frank Blocker (Festival Coordinator), John Bostic (Louisiana), Rochelle Burdine (Atlanta), Jenni Caruso (Atlanta), Bronwen Coleman (Australia), Nathan Cooper (Bulgaria), Daniel Cristofori (London), Elizabeth D'Onofrio (Naples), Alex S. Freeman (New York), Scott Garland (Toronto), Talaura Harms (New York), Charles Jackson (Texas)…

The Center for Performing Arts Bonita Springs will present the world premiere of Charles Jackson, Jr.'s THE FLOATING BLACK MAN in conjunction with their popular Staged Reading Series on August 9, 2019, at 7:30pm. Mr. Jackson will give a full performance of his new play as part of the evening that will highlight Naples, Florida, playwright Marc Simon's play DEPARTURES in the staged reading format.