“A Raisin in the Sun” deals with dreams and the conflict that arises as each person has a different world view on “how things should be.” It's a play about love, struggle, self-respect, hurting those who you love, then coming together and making dreams come true.
The message still rings as clear today as it did in 1959. What happens to a dream deferred? The answer to this question is found in this outstanding American classic play “A Raisin in the Sun.”
The New York Times stated that 'A Raisin in the Sun' was a play that 'changed American theater forever.'
“A Raisin in the Sun” concerns the working-class Younger family in the late 1950s who dream of leaving behind the dilapidated tenement apartment where they have lived for decades. The son, Walter, is a chauffeur who dreams of making a fortune by investing in a liquor store. His sister, Beneatha, a somewhat flighty college student, tries to find her identity and embraces the “back to Africa” philosophy of a Nigerian friend. And their mother, the matriarch, dreams of using her late husband's insurance money to buy a home in an all-white neighborhood during the segregated 1950s.
“This was a groundbreaking, provocative and very relevant play when it first debuted at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre on Broadway in 1959,” said Director James Mathis.
“ I have always wanted to direct this wonderful piece of American theater. Its message of family, dreams, unity, interconnectedness is still a very powerful message for audiences today,” added Mathis.
“ The characters are so complex. I want to go under the surface and dig deep into their souls and bring it out for the audience because we can see ourselves,” noted Mathis.
Columbus State's presentation of this play has an outstanding cast of veteran actors and some very talented newcomers.
• Toni Tinsley (Mama Younger), a celebrated actress who has appeared in numerous stellar productions and projects
• Mark E. Pinkston (Walter Lee Younger), a veteran stage actor
• Steve Zelenka (Mr. Lindner), a veteran stage actor
Newcomers to the stage include:
• Shanelle Marie (Ruth Younger)
• Dominique Paramore (Beneatha Younger)
• Ngozi Pinkston (Travis Younger)
• Herbert Hayes (George Murchison)
• Anthony Bauks (Asagai)
• Jesse N. Robinson (Bobo)

Edited by Columbus Post staff.

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