Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival proudly presents Lorraine Hansberry\u2019s \u201cA Raisin in the Sun,\u201d a seminal work of American theater that forever changed the cultural landscape. Directed by award-winning Philadelphia artist Akeem Davis, this pivotal play previews June 25 and 26, opens Friday, June 27, and runs through July 13 in the intimate Schubert Theatre at the Labuda Center for the Performing Arts at DeSales University.<\/p>\n
Set on Chicago\u2019s South Side in the 1950s, \u201cA Raisin in the Sun\u201d follows the hopes, struggles, and fierce determination of the Younger family as they dream beyond the confines of their crowded apartment. When an insurance check offers the possibility of change, each family member must confront personal aspirations, societal pressures, and the unshakable bonds of love and legacy. With poignant depth, Hansberry\u2019s landmark play remains a searing testament to the resilience of the human spirit.<\/p>\n
A stellar cast brings the story to life: Brandon E. Burton (Broadway\u2019s \u201cDeath of a Salesman\u201d) stars as Walter Lee Younger, with Kimberly S. Fairbanks (Off-Broadway: 59E59) as the formidable Lena \u201cMama\u201d Younger. They are joined by Noelle Diane Johnson (Theatre Horizon, Villanova Theatre) as Ruth Younger; Billie Wyatt (PSF\u2019s \u201cThe Tempest\u201d and \u201cSense and Sensibility\u201d) as the ambitious Beneatha Younger; and Kian E. Cooper and Octavian Suomie alternating as Travis Younger. Supporting roles feature Jamir Fisher (George Murchison, Moving Man), Keith Livingston (Bobo, Moving Man), Matt Pfeiffer (Karl Lindner), and Isaiah Caleb Stanley (Joseph Asagai, Moving Man).<\/p>\n
The production team includes scenic designer Marie Laster, sound designer Jordan McCree, costume designer Leigh Paradise, and lighting designer Thom Weaver. Kim Carson is the intimacy director, Ian Rose is the fight director. Patreshettarlini \u201cPat\u201d Adams serves as production stage manager, and Elliot M. Schenck is assistant stage manager.<\/p>\n
Tickets are available at\u00a0pashakespeare.org<\/a>, by calling 610-282-WILL (9455), or in person at the box office. Discounts are available for military personnel, educators, seniors, students, and groups of 10 or more.<\/p>\n PSF invites patrons to celebrate with the artists at the Opening Night Champagne Reception on Friday, June 27. Post-show talkbacks with cast members will follow the Thursday performances on July 3 and 10. A specialty dinner with the director will be held Wednesday, July 9, at 5PM. Reservations are required. For a behind-the-scenes experience, attend the Epilogue and backstage tour on Saturday, July 12, at 10AM. Patrons can also enjoy live music on the green before each performance. In its ongoing commitment to accessibility, PSF will offer an audio-described performance on Saturday, July 12, at 2PM.<\/p>\n The production sponsor for \u201cA Raisin in the Sun\u201d is B. Braun. Co-sponsors are Cross America Partners LP and Dunne Manning.<\/p>\n The festival\u2019s 2025 season sponsors are Marilyn McDonald, MD, and Joe Folger. Associate season sponsors include Mary Bongiorno; Linda Lapos and Paul Wirth; Kathleen Kund Nolan and Timothy E. Nolan; Yvonne Payne and Edward Spitzer; the Szarko Family; and the Harry C. Trexler Trust.<\/p>\n