The 6th annual Black Playwrights Festival's kick-off is Monday evening and will display the talented artistic work of Chicago's African American playwrights.
The week-long festival will feature five productions and it's Dec. 13 closing will feature poetry, acting and storytelling.
The Black Playwrights Initiative (BPI) started this festival five years ago with the leadership of Jackie Taylor, founder and executive director of the Black Ensemble Theater. The purpose of the BPI is to bring together a community to share resources and skills with the goal of developing scripts for the theater.
Tickets to the festival are $15 per night or $40 for a week-long pass.
Some of the festivals anticipated events include:
Opening Ceremony
This evening will honor Eric Monte, the legendary playwright who paved the way for many African American playwrights.
Where: Black Ensemble Theater, 4520 N. Beacon, Chicago
When: Monday, December 6, 7:30 p.m.
The Rare Pearl
This show portrays the life of Pearl Bailey, one of the first black female movie starts.
Where: Black Ensemble Theater, 4520 N. Beacon, Chicago
When: Tuesday, December 7, 7:30 p.m.
Urban Legend
Get an intimate look into hip-hop legend Tupac Shakur's life.
Where: Black Ensemble Theater, 4520 N. Beacon, Chicago
When: Wednesday, December 8, 7:30 p.m.
The Punk Ain't No Punk No More
Take a journey through the struggle of people who enable drugs and violence throughout the community during this performance.
Where: Black Ensemble Theater, 4520 N. Beacon, Chicago
When: Thursday, December 9, 7:30 p.m.
The Psychology of a Genius: Donny Hathaway
See the account of musical genius Donny Hathaway's last three hours of life.
Where: Black Ensemble Theater, 4520 N. Beacon, Chicago
When: Friday, December 10, 11:00 p.m.
Sounds So Sweet
Come see the work of award winning playwright Rueben D. Echoles.
Where: Black Ensemble Theater, 4520 N. Beacon, Chicago
When: Saturday, December 11, 3:00 p.m.
For a complete list of showings, see their website.