The Malaga Ship: A Story of Maine and the Middle Passage

A Special Invitation for a Transformative Afternoon On Sunday, March 22, The Malaga Ship: A Story of Maine and the Middle Passage will be held at Maine Maritime Museum—an afternoon of performance, conversation, and community as Atlantic Black Box introduces a new educational documentary film project. Experience acclaimed storyteller Antonio Rocha’s powerful solo stage performance, in which he traces the haunting history of the brig Malaga alongside his own journey of historical and personal reckoning. Following the performance, Antonio will be joined by members of the documentary team for a panel discussion and reception to share more about the film and its accompanying educational curriculum. Built in Brunswick, Maine in 1832, the 183-ton brig Malaga was later used to traffic African captives across the Atlantic long after the transatlantic slave trade had been outlawed. Our documentary illuminates Maine’s entanglement in the global industry of enslavement while following Antonio’s deeply personal process of recovery, reconciliation, and artistic creation. Before the event, attendees are invited to enjoy free admission beginning at 2:30 pm to Maine Maritime Museum’s exhibitions, including Re|Sounding, a powerful exhibition centering Indigenous and Black perspectives on Maine’s maritime past. 2:30 pm – Museum access 3:30 pm – The Malaga Ship performance 4:30 pm – Panel discussion 5:00 pm – Reception This afternoon marks the beginning of a larger journey. We hope you’ll join Atlantic Black Box to witness this story, engage in conversation, and become part of the ongoing work of historical recovery. We look forward to gathering with everyone! tickets at atlantic black box Proceeds from ticket sales directly support the production of The Malaga Ship documentary, including filming, editing, and the development of accompanying educational curriculum.