A Raisin in the Sun

Play

Creators/Authors: Lorraine Hansberry

Genre: Period
Duration: 120 min +
Cast Size: 7m / 3f / 1boy(s)
Class: Full Length Play
Performing Groups: High School/Secondary College Theatre / Professional Theatre

“Pivotal play in the history of the American Black theatre.”

——Newsweek

Accolades

Tony Award: Best Revival of a Play, Best Director of a Play, Best Supporting Actress

Synopsis

Set on Chicago’s South Side, the plot revolves around the divergent dreams and conflicts within three generations of the Younger family: son Walter Lee, his wife Ruth, his sister Beneatha, his son Travis, and matriarch Lena. When her deceased husband’s insurance money comes through, Mama Lena dreams of moving to a new home and a better neighborhood in Chicago. Walter Lee, a chauffeur, has other plans: buying a liquor store and being his own man. Beneatha dreams of medical school. The tensions and prejudice they face form this seminal American drama. The Younger family’s heroic struggle to retain dignity in a harsh and changing world is a searing and timeless document of hope and inspiration.