Stage Page: ‘Raisin in the Sun’ will shine Friday in Westchester

Kentwood Players proudly presents Lorraine Hansberry’s classic family drama “A Raisin in the Sun” opening Friday, January 8 to Saturday, Feb. 13, with performances on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. at the Westchester Playhouse, 8301 Hindry Ave., Westchester.

The production directed by Harold Dershimer and produced by Kathy Dershimer by special arrangement with Samuel French. Featured in the cast in alphabetical order are Rashod Davenport, Ruth Featherstone, Daniel Kruger, Kowalsky Lucien, Jean Michels, Patricia Newman, Shannon O’Connor, Damon Rutledge, Isaiah Suber, and Charlotte Williams.

A Raisin in the Sun” is the groundbreaking play, which starred Sidney Poitier, Claudia McNeill, Ruby Dee and Diana Sands in the Broadway production which opened in 1959.

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 family matriarch Lena, called Mama.  When her deceased husband’s insurance money comes through, Mama dreams of moving to a new home and a better neighborhood in Chicago.

However, her son Walter Lee, a chauffeur, has other plans: buying a liquor store and being his own man while Beneatha dreams of attending medical school.  The tensions and prejudice they face form this seminal American drama, centering on sacrifice, trust and love among the Younger family and their heroic struggle to retain dignity in a harsh and changing world.

The play is a searing and timeless document of hope and inspiration.

Special events on opening weekend for “A Raisin in the Sun” include the Subscriber Saturday pre-show reception at 7 p.m. Jan. 9, featuring complementary homemade treats and sweets along with champagne, wine, or apple cider for all subscribers and their guests.  On Sunday, Jan. 10, there will be a talkback after the matinee with Mamie Hansberry, the author’s sister, who will share personal memories of the creation of the play and its initial run on Broadway.

Tickets are $20 with a $2 discount for seniors, students, servicemen, and Metro riders. Call 310-645-5156 during box office hours, Wednesday to Saturday from 4 to 7 p.m. Or go online at www.kentwoodplayers.org. Groups (10 or more) should call 310-645-5156. The show runs approximately 3 hours, with a 15-minute intermission.