Chuck Smith, guest director. Choreography by Kemal Nance and Endalyn Taylor
In 1904 Pittsburgh, formerly enslaved woman Aunt Ester holds the African American community together. Aunt Ester is a soul washer, restoring the spiritual balance of troubled individuals. Her powers and community are tested when newcomer Citizen Barlow refuses to accept responsibility for his actions. Part of August Wilson’s celebrated Pittsburgh Cycle, Illinois Theatre’s production is directed by long-time Wilson collaborator Chuck Smith and features a newly choreographed and composed City of Bones section in collaboration with Dance at Illinois.
Part of the 1619 & Beyond Series, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Department of African American Studies at the University of Illinois.