‘Raisin in the Sun' shines spotlight on American dream

Before America was introduced to the Jeffersons or Huxtables, they were acquainted with the Youngers from the hit play "A Raisin in the Sun."

Debuting on Broadway 50 years ago, "A Raisin in the Sun" focuses on a black family as they try to attain the American dream. But many hurdles are thrown in their way before they fully realize it all.

The drama, which is playing at Arizona Theatre Company in Phoenix, tells the story of Lena Younger, who inherits a $10,000 check after her husband dies. She wants to buy a new home in an all-white neighborhood, and leave their run-down Chicago apartment.

But her son, Walter Lee, has other plans - he wants to use the money to invest in a liquor store.

Louis Bellamy, the show's director, said even though it centers on a black family, the story can be identifiable to anyone.

"There are all types of hurdles in their way, like real life," Bellamy said. "The family is so good that we root for them all the way, even with their issues."

Bellamy said the play was the first peek into a black family's life and "now we have the Obamas in the White House."

"Raisin" broke many barriers after its debut in 1959. It was the first Broadway play to be written by a black woman and the first directed by a black director.

Sidney Poitier, Ruby Dee and Louis Gossett Jr. starred in the original production, which later was made into a critically acclaimed film with the same actors. In 2006, a Tony-Award winning Broadway revival of the show featured Phylicia Rashad, Sean "P. Diddy" Combs and Audra MacDonald.

This version became a hit ABC-television movie last year.

Bellamy said the audience has the opportunity to use the stage as a keyhole to look into the lives of the Youngers.

"There are so many honest moments with this family, and you get to see them all," he said.

IF YOU GO

WHAT: "A Raisin in the Sun."

WHEN: Through Feb. 22.

WHERE: Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix.

TICKETS: $26-$59.

INFO: Call 602-256-6995 or visit www.arizonatheatre.org.