On Oct. 3, the Spelman College Theatre Department embarked on an enriching excursion to witness the iconic play 'A Raisin in the Sun (1961)' by Lorraine Hansberry. Professor Cynthia D. Barker accompanied the students and performed in the play where she delivered a powerful performance as Ruth Younger. This outing brought together Spelman and Morehouse students, creating a shared experience that transcended the campuses.
According to the IMDb synopsis of the play, The Younger family consists of Mama and her college-age daughter Beneatha, her son Walter and his wife Ruth, and her 10-year-old grandson Travis. The family has lived in the same cramped Chicago apartment for years. Walter is a chauffeur and Ruth works as a part-time maid. Mama has just retired as she is expecting a $10,000 life insurance check from her deceased husband's estate. The Younger family has disputes about how the money will be spent.
After the performance, students engaged in meaningful discussions about how the play resonated with them. Theatre and Performance sophomore Thomas Boyce from Morehouse College remarked, “Experiencing 'A Raisin in the Sun' live was incredible. It reminded me of the importance of our history and how it shapes who we are today. I hope we can see more performances like this in the future!”
Another student, theater and performance senior Kennedi Heard from Spelman College expressed her enthusiasm, saying, “I loved this experience and think the department should organize more trips to see plays. It’s so important for us to connect with these stories and support live theatre!”
Professor Joan McCarty, who helped coordinate the outing, shared, “Bringing students to see live theatre not only enhances their education but also cultivates a deeper appreciation for the arts. It’s essential for us to engage with powerful narratives like 'A Raisin in the Sun' and to foster a community that values storytelling.”
The collective experience fostered reflections on the complex emotions portrayed and the historical context of the story. Students shared their thoughts on the characters’ struggles and aspirations, recognizing the relevance of Hansberry’s work in today’s society. The trip was not just an opportunity to appreciate the arts but also a chance for students to bond, reflect, and engage with the themes of the play. As they celebrate the power of storytelling and the arts, they look forward to more adventures that inspire and connect the community.
