A Raisin in the Sun begins to shine

Pioneering theatre company, Headlong have this week released rehearsal images for their fresh new staging of A Raisin in the Sun…

The production by director Tinuke Craig opens to audiences later this month.

Doreene Blackstock plays Lena, Joséphine-Fransilja Brookman plays Beneatha, Cash Holland plays Ruth, Solomon Israel plays Walter Lee, Gilbert Kyem Jnr plays George, Kenneth Omole plays Joseph/Bobo and Jonah Russell plays Karl.

The role of Travis will be performed by Jayden Dias, Josh Ndlovu and Adiel Magaji in Leeds and Oxford, and by Jeriah Kibusi and Oliver Dunkley in London and Nottingham.

Doreene Blackstock, Oliver Dunkley, Solomon Israel, Cash Holland, Joséphine-Fransilja Brookman – Credit Marc Brenner

A Raisin in the Sun premieres at Leeds Playhouse (13-28 Sep) before touring to Oxford Playhouse (2-5 Oct), Lyric Hammersmith Theatre (8 Oct – 2 Nov) and Nottingham Playhouse (5-16 Nov).

Groundbreaking and challenging, Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun broke barriers as the first play by a Black woman on Broadway. This classic family drama full of humour and heart remains relevant and powerful in a world still divided by inequality.

​In a rented apartment on Chicago’s South Side, the Younger family is full of hope, dreams, grief, and big plans. Their beloved father has died, and the money from his life insurance policy could change their lives. Mama wants to put down roots in a home of her own.

Tinuke Craig, Oliver Dunkley, Doreene Blackstock, Solomon Israel, Cash Holland, Joséphine-Fransilja Brookman – Credit Marc Brenner

Her daughter Beneatha has her heart set on becoming a doctor. But her son Walter Lee thinks the money is his to spend — and he’s willing to sacrifice his values and his family to get what he wants. Each must face what it means to escape the confines of a segregated society. How do you create a meaningful life in a world designed to keep you down?

Director Tinuke Craig:

“It is a privilege to once again work alongside the creative powerhouse that is Headlong in their 50th year after collaborating on Jitney in 2021 whilst continuing my ongoing Artistic Associate role with Lyric Hammersmith Theatre. Now, the time is right to bring Lorraine Hansberry’s classic A Raisin in the Sun back to the stage in a relevant, fresh new production for today.”

​For more information visit headlong.co.uk.