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T H U R S D A Y

“The air is the only place to be free of prejudice,” noted ’20s barnstormer Bessie Coleman. As well she might have: The first African-American woman flyer had to travel to France to earn her wings. Subject of Doris Rich’s new biography, Queen Bess: Daredevil Aviator, Coleman’s plans to open a flight school for blacks came to naught when she was killed in a 1926 accident. Tonight, Caleen Sinnette–Jennings, assistant professor of theater at American University, recreates scenes from Coleman’s life; Rich autographs copies of her book following the presentation at 8 p.m. at the National Air and Space Museum’s Langley Theater, 6th & Independence Ave. SW. FREE. (202) 357-2700. (Greg Kitsock)