Historic St. Mary’s City in St. Mary’s County, Maryland, will host “Ms. Story’s Living History,” a one-woman theatrical performance by actress and historical interpreter Shemika Renee, on Friday, February 20, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. The event, timed for Black History Month, spotlights the contributions of Black women in American history through engaging storytelling.
Renee created and performs the show as Ms. Story, a quirky bookstore owner who introduces audiences to remarkable women whose bravery, determination, hopes, and dreams shaped the nation. The narrative gradually reveals the mystery behind Ms. Story herself, blending education with entertainment. The two-hour program, including a 15-minute intermission, uses first-person interpretation and period-accurate costumes to humanize lesser-known figures alongside more familiar ones, fostering emotional connections to the past.
Renee brings over 20 years of experience as an actress and historical performer in the DMV region. She began first-person portrayals after volunteering in her child’s classroom and expanded through social media shares, leading to bookings at schools, churches, and community venues. In 2019, she developed “Ms. Story’s Living History” as a copyrighted full presentation featuring stories of seven women. Recent performances include portrayals of figures like Ona Judge, Sally Hemings, and Sojourner Truth, as seen in a February 7, 2026, show at La Plata Library.
The performance celebrates Black Marylanders’ stories and contributions, aligning with Historic St. Mary’s City’s mission to preserve and interpret Maryland’s first capital site. Held at the HSMC Visitor Center Auditorium, it receives support from the Historic St. Mary’s City Foundation, with proceeds funding educational and interpretive programs at the living history museum.
Tickets range from $17 to $20, available via Eventbrite. General admission is $20, with discounts for seniors (65+), students, and military. The event suits ages 12 and up.
Historic St. Mary’s City, a key Southern Maryland attraction, continues to offer programs that connect visitors to colonial and African American history. This Black History Month event builds on the site’s role in public education, drawing local residents and visitors to explore overlooked narratives in a dynamic format.
For more on the program and other HSMC events, visit hsmcdigshistory.org.