Playhouse’s ‘Young, Gifted and Black’ to highlight life on Lorraine Hansberry

The Youngstown Playhouse will present “To Be Young Gifted and Black,” an autobiographical work based on the life of playwright Lorraine Hansberry. Performances occur at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 3-4 and Feb. 10-11.

“Fast paced, powerful, touching and hilarious, this kaleidoscope of constantly shifting scenes, mood and images recreates the world of a great American woman and artist,” notes the Playhouse. “Uniquely and boldly, the play dramatically weaves through her life experiences and the times that shaped her.”

Hansberry’s best known work, “A Raisin in the Sun,” (winner of The New York Drama Critics’ Circle Award for Best Play) was the first play written by an African-American woman to be produced on Broadway.

Director Carla Gipson said she is very excited to be able to bring this show to The Playhouse in celebration of Black History Month. “The experiences that were inspirational in Lorraine Hansberry’s life and works, which came during the 50s and 60s, are also an American experience that we can all relate to. The messages and challenges are still relevant today,” said Gipson.

Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for seniors and students. The Moyer Room has limited seating and reservations are recommended. To reserve, call the box office at 330-788-8739 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.