Pearl Cleage's seminal 1995 play

The Guthrie brings to life the simmering streets of 1930 Harlem in this exciting new revival of Pearl Cleage's 1995 play. Directed by Nicole A. Watson, this character-driven drama follows the fortunes of four friends from the neighborhood who grapple with dreams and hopes curtailed by the waning cultural renaissance of Harlem in the face of the Great Depression.

What is the story?

1930, Harlem. The cultural renaissance that saw a burst of creativity in the predominantly African American neighborhood has begun to wain in the face of the Great Depression. Feeling the squeeze are four friends including Angel, a dancer who dreams of escape. But when a stranger from Alabama comes to town, the quartet is faced with life-changing consequences. Will they break free? Or cling to the safety of belonging?