Community Reads Series

Comprised of a social gathering, a book club, and a post-show discussion with members of the creative team of A Raisin in the Sun, the Community Reads Series offers opportunities to come together to discuss themes within the play, its inspiration, and its importance to the South Side.

Community Reads Social

January 27, 2025 from 5:30pm – 7:30pm at the Blackstone Branch of Chicago Public Library (4904 S. Lake Park Avenue)

Join us at the Blackstone Branch of the Chicago Public Library for a Community Reads Social. Guests will be invited to enjoy light refreshments and break out into small groups for guided facilitation and conversation surrounding the Langston Hughes poem, Harlem (1951) which inspired the title of Hansberry’s acclaimed Broadway debut in 1959, A Raisin in the Sun. Space is limited and reservations are strongly encouraged. This event is free to the public.

Community Reads Book Club

February 26, 2025 from 5:30pm – 7:30pm at the Blackstone Branch of Chicago Public Library (4904 S. Lake Park Avenue)

Join the Community Reads Book Club to take a closer look at issues past and present impacting housing on the South Side of Chicago. The book club selection for this series, The South Side, written by author and Chicago native, Natalie Moore, will be the focus of an intimate study group for exploration and facilitated discussion. Copies of The South Side are not provided – we encourage you to check out a copy from the Chicago Public Library. Space is limited and reservations are required. This event is free to the public.

Community Reads Conversation

March 1, 2025 from 4:45 – 6:30pm at Court Theatre (5535 S. Ellis Avenue)

To culminate the Community Reads series inspired by A Raisin in the Sun, join members of the production team to discuss the many layers of social issues that Hansberry illuminates within the play. This conversation can be enjoyed after the afternoon matinee performance or prior to the evening performance.

Photo courtesy of Chicago Public Library’s Blackstone Library Branch.

Presented in partnership with