The Hadley Fund will present Magpie Music, Terry Leonino and Greg Artzner, performing a concert and one-act play, "Sword of the Spirit."

The music from their concert on Jan. 16 at 7 p.m. is inspired by the lives of abolitionists, Mary and John Brown. The one-act play on Sunday, Jan. 17 at 2 p.m. is based on the letters between Mary and John. Both performances will take place at Kennett Friends Meeting (125 W. Sickle St., Kennett Square).

In the play, John Brown has spent the last 40 days of his life in a jail cell. During this time he has received many visitors, given interviews and composed over 100 letters to acquaintances, friends and members of his family, including his wife, Mary. Brown addresses the audience, expounding on his life, his beliefs and what he considers his God-given mission to destroy the evil of slavery. From another part of the stage, Mary writes to him from Lucretia Mott’s home, where she has stopped on her journey to see him one last time. She also addresses the audience directly, telling the story of her life with John to “Mrs. Mott.” 

The artists will engage the audience in a discussion immediately following the play. Admission is free. For more information, call 610-444-1855 or visit www.HadleyFund.org.