beverly willis

As Washtenaw County marks 200 years since its founding, one local production is bringing an even earlier chapter of American history to life. The Ann Arbor Civic Theatre is staging the Tony Award-winning musical "1776" — telling the story behind the signing of the Declaration of Independence. WEMU’s John Stockwell takes us from the rehearsal room to opening night and explores how the past continues to resonate today.

As construction reshapes Ann Arbor, older landmarks give way to new developments, altering the city’s character. WEMU’s Ana Longoria reports on what these changes mean for the city’s history.

Bev Willis, Washtenaw County Historical Society administrator, has a passion for history. She grew up in Washington, D.C. in a family deeply ensconced in the Civil Rights Movement. Her family’s role and record of the movement is our nation’s history. In this summer marking the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act becoming law, Bev tells her story when she joins Deb Polich on this edition of WEMU’s "creative:impact."

Bev Willis grew up in Washington, D.C., literally in the epicenter of the Civil Rights Movement because of her parents and grandparents. Deb Polich and…