Play based on life of ‘Raisin’ author

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

The Youngstown Playhouse will present “To Be Young, Gifted and Black,” an autobiographical collage based on the life of Lorraine Hansberry, this weekend and next in the Moyer Room.

Fast-paced, powerful, touching and hilarious, “To Be Young” is a kaleidoscope of constantly shifting scenes, mood and images that recreates the world of a great American woman and artist.

The play dramatically weaves through Hansberry’s life experiences and the times that shaped her.

Hansberry’s best known work, “A Raisin in the Sun,” was the first play written by an African-American woman to be produced on Broadway.

Director Carla Gipson said she is excited to bring the show to the Playhouse as a special event celebrating 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,” said Gipson.

Show times are 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and again Feb. 10 and 11.

Tickets are $15 ($12 for seniors and students).

The Moyer Room has limited seating, and reservations are recommended.

Call the box office at 330-788-8739 for more information.