“To the grace notes in the oratory of 19th-century abolitionist Frederick Douglass, you can now add beguiling new ones, courtesy of the 21st-century composer Marcus Hummon. The songwriter infuses “American Prophet,” the exquisitely sung, melody-rich world premiere at Arena Stage, with gorgeous hymns that contextualize Douglass’s rise as a voice of conscience for a divided nation.”

“The new musical, with vivid central performances by Cornelius Smith Jr. and Kristolyn Lloyd as Frederick and Anna Douglass, channels Douglass’s power through some astute culling of his journalism, autobiographies and speeches. (Its subtitle is “Frederick Douglass in His Own Words.”) The conceit invests the work of Hummon and co-book writer Charles Randolph-Wright — who also supplies excellent direction — with historical accuracy. It also gives them a lyrical leg up, as there is undeniable music in Douglass’s elegantly persuasive turns of phrase.” ”

“American Prophet, a stirring new musical at Arena Stage in Washington, attempts with vigor but also delicacy to illuminate his pivotal importance in the battle to end slavery in America. The show is subtitled “Frederick Douglass in His Own Words,” and features a book by Charles Randolph-Wright and Marcus Hummon (Mr. Randolph-Wright also directs), and music and lyrics also by Mr. Hummon, a Grammy-winning composer. Thanks to their focus on Douglass’s celebrated speeches and writings, his words ring forth with scalding power. ”

“Mr. Hummon’s music plays a crucial role in avoiding obvious or superficially uplifting depictions of this history. It has a subtlety rare in musical theater; the composer and lyricist gives precedence to the music in Douglass’s oratory. We are led by the terrific musical director, Joseph Joubert, on keyboards, into the thoughts, the words, the feelings.” ”