TALK OF GREENWOOD
Dr. Jerry Goodwin
The cast of “A Raisin in the Sun” is to appear in the inaugural production of Black Broadway Tulsa. Photo Provided
The First Play Produced by Black Broadway Tulsa
Black Broadway Tulsa has announced its debut production of “A Raisin in the Sun,” opening at the Maya Angelou Theater at Central Performing Arts High School, Sept. 20-29. David Harris, a local veteran actor and director, is the play’s director.
A winner of the New York Critics Circle as “Best Play of the Year,” the play was first produced for Broadway by Lorraine Hansberry in 1959. Since its first premier, the productions of the play have won countless awards, including a Pulitzer Prize for Drama Winner in 2011 and a Tony Award for Best Play in 2012.
The award-winning play highlights a Black family’s search for success and the American dream.
“This production promises to deliver a fresh and poignant perspective on this classic American play,” said Harris.
Local actors will be reprising the roles of the heralded play.
The cast features some of Tulsa’s premier Black performers, including Kimberly Manning, Christian Stubblefield, Obum Ukabam, and Nicole Billups, who stars as Mama.
“This show is both universal and generational,” says Billups.
“Never give up on your family. Perfect or imperfect, you have to love people where they are at. Bringing Mama to life has stretched me the most, but it’s been a deeply rewarding experience. I hope people see the hope and love that shine through, even in the midst of challenges.”
Well-known actors Sean Combs, Ruby Dee, Louis Gossett Jr., Sanaa Lathan, Audra McDonald, Sidney Poitier, and Phylicia Rashad among others have appeared in Broadway, movie, and television productions.
The founder of Black Broadway Tulsa is Obum Ukabam, a member of the City of Tulsa Arts Commission. A local director and actor, he recently directed Theatre North’s “Once on this Island” and appeared in “Top Dog Underdog.”
“We are excited to launch Black Broadway Tulsa with “A Raisin in the Sun” and “Waiting to be Invited,” said Ukabam.
“These productions embody our commitment to offering high-quality theater that showcases the exceptional talent within our community, particularly those who often don’t receive the opportunities they deserve. By creating more opportunities and ensuring fair compensation, we’re bringing overlooked talent to the forefront.”
In addition to sponsoring plays, Black Broadway Tulsa plans to take a group of students and community members to experience Broadway in New York. This initiative underscores the company’s commitment to providing life-changing opportunities for aspiring artists and elevating the cultural landscape of Tulsa.
The mission of Black Broadway Tulsa is to bring the brilliance of Broadway and the richness of Black theatrical excellence to Tulsa while elevating the stage with diverse talent and powerful storytelling.
Following “A Raisin in the Sun,” Black Broadway Tulsa will debut its second production, “Waiting to be Invited,” on Oct. 3.
For tickets or more information, visit www.blackbroadway.org.
Black Broadway Tulsa
Black Broadway Tulsa is dedicated to delivering accessible, high-quality theater in North Tulsa, Black Broadway Tulsa invites all Tulsans to experience these compelling stories and the remarkable talent behind them. The Maya Angelou Theater at Central Performing Arts High School is the perfect venue to launch this exciting new chapter in Tulsa’s arts scene.
