“Blues for an Alabama Sky”

“Blues for an Alabama Sky” chronicles the aspirations and tribulations of five characters whose lives intersect in an apartment building in Harlem over an eight-week period during the summer of 1930. As the playwright Pearl Cleage notes in setting the action, “The creative euphoria of the Harlem Renaissance has given way to the harsher realities of the Great Depression.” The characters battle economic hardship and the challenges of finding success in a society where racism, sexism, and homophobia challenge them at every turn. The lives of the onstage characters are set against a panoramic view of the vibrant African American culture of the period, as they interact with key historical figures, move among iconic community landmarks, and play roles in evolving social movements. We are thrilled to welcome Ericka Ratcliff (Artistic Director of Congo Square Theatre) and playwright Pearl Cleage whose work will be presented at UIC Theatre for the first time.

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