THE HISTORY OF BLACK THEATRE IN AMERICA

 

– Want to learn more about the fascinating history of Black Theatre?

– Talk with the actors, director, and producer of Sterling Playmakers’ A Raisin in the Sun?

– Support and increase awareness of local chapters of major African American organizations?

 

The Loudoun County Virginia Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., conducts annual programs during Black History Month. Its current co-leader is Robin Lynn Reaves, who plays Lena “Mama” Younger in Sterling Playmakers’ production of A Raisin in the Sun. This year, Jack and Jill of America is partnering with the Loudoun Branch of the NAACP to conduct a “post-show” event after the performance on February 26, 2023.

 

The post-show theme is The History of Black Theatre in America. In this program, you’ll learn about Black history in theatre, beginning with enslaved persons’ oral storytelling, to the minstrel shows of the 19th and 20th centuries, through the modern day. The works of famous, ground- breaking Black dramatists will be showcased, such as August Wilson, Pulitzer Prize winner for Fences, and Lorraine Hansberry, author of A Raisin in the Sun. The children of Jack and Jill organization members will help to share the history and perform some of the famous monologues and scenes. This 90-minute post-show program is free to the public.

 

So if you are trying to decide which performance to attend, and you want to learn more about the amazing contributions of African Americans to American Theatre, buy your tickets for February 26, now on sale!