Join The Black Rep in St. Louis as it marks nearly five decades of celebrating African American voices, history, and culture through powerful productions. Discover the legacy and ongoing commitment to amplifying Black stories in its 49th season.
For nearly five decades, The Black Rep has been a cultural anchor in St. Louis, presenting productions that amplify African American voices, explore shared histories and spark timely conversations. Now in its 49th season, founder and producing director Ron Himes emphasizes that this year’s programming continues the tradition of celebrating the perseverance and strength of our people, lifting new voices and honoring the canon of Black literature for the stage.
“Some of what we’re doing this season,” Himes explained, “is highlighting strong women and storytelling that gives voice to those who might otherwise go unheard. We’re also committed to showcasing new, contemporary writers while continuing to honor and preserve the rich canon of African American theater.”
The season’s productions, Himes said, are designed not only to entertain but also to provoke thought, motivate action and inspire resilience. For example, Raisin (The Musical), adapted from A Raisin in the Sun, connects audiences to both the timeless struggles of the Younger family and the broader community of Chicago’s South Side. “For audiences,” Himes noted, “I hope they see how much progress we’ve made, how far we still have to go and how history continues to shape the present.”
Other productions this season—including The Dance on Widow’s Row, Flyin’ West and Fat Ham—will bring audiences laughter, history and fresh perspectives. Each play offers what Himes describes as “a specific kind of message” that aligns with the company’s mission to reflect both the challenges and triumphs of African American life.
As one of the nation’s leading African American theater companies, The Black Rep has always balanced honoring classic works with introducing audiences to contemporary writers. This season is no exception, pairing legends like August Wilson with emerging voices such as Lisa B. Thompson and James Ijames.
“It’s important that we celebrate writers who’ve given us a body of work to look back on,” Himes said, “while also giving new voices a platform. That balance is how we stay relevant, reflective and forward-looking.”
When asked how a season comes together, Himes described a process that combines submissions, readings and conversations with his team. “Ultimately, the final roster of plays rise to the top,” he said. “Once they’re selected, our job is to find the threads that connect them, presenting a season that’s both cohesive and compelling.”
This year’s staging of Raisin provides an example of The Black Rep’s innovation. While staying true to Hansberry’s original story, Himes expanded the scope by bringing audiences outside the Younger home to explore life in the broader South Side community. “We get to see the neighborhood, the bar, the church,” Himes said. “It’s about telling an expanded story.”
Himes also underscored the importance of laughter and joy, especially in difficult times. Productions like The Dance on Widow’s Row will bring levity, offering audiences a chance to escape the weight of the world while still engaging with meaningful storytelling.
Season 49’s energy will also be on display at The Black Rep’s highly anticipated gala on October 25th at the 560 Music Center. This year’s celebration continues a five-year commitment to showcase HBCU choral music, with the Tennessee State University Meistersingers headlining the evening.
The gala also honors excellence in the community. This year’s Woody King Jr. Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to educator and musician Mr. Dello Thedford. The Frankie Muse Freeman Spirit Award will recognize Mary Ferguson & Larry Clark and Emily Pitts for their outstanding contributions to the arts and community.
Proceeds from the gala will support The Black Rep’s education and community programs, ensuring that new generations are exposed to the power of theater.
Looking Ahead: A Home for The Black Rep
As The Black Rep approaches its 50th anniversary, Himes is clear about the company’s next frontier: securing a permanent facility. “We’ve been fortunate in our relationship with Washington University, but to grow for the next 50 years, we need a home,” he said. “A place the community can point to and say, ‘That’s ours.’”
Himes stressed that community support will be essential. “Buying a ticket is the first step. Becoming a season subscriber, making a donation—these are investments in our future and in the cultural richness of St. Louis.”
For Himes, the inspiration to continue season after season comes from both the community and the artists The Black Rep serves. “We were founded to give voice to artists who didn’t have a platform,” he reflected. “Many of those reasons still exist, and so we stand guard, providing a place where the community can come together and see the world as it should be.”
As Season 49 unfolds, audiences can expect to laugh, reflect, learn and leave inspired—reminded that The Black Rep is more than a theater company. It is a mirror, a teacher, and a cultural institution built for the people, by the people and with the people.
The Black Rep – Season 49 at a Glance
Featured Productions
- Raisin – By Robert Nemiroff and Charlotte Zaltzberg
- The Dance on Widow’s Row – By Samm-Art Williams
- Flyin’ West – By Pearl Cleage
- Fat Ham – By James Ijames
- The Black Feminist Guide to the Human Body – By Lisa B. Thompson
- Phoenix Rising Series: Jitney (In Italian) – By August Wilson
Gala 2025
- Date: Saturday, October 25, 2025
- Location: 560 Music Center, Delmar Loop
- Highlights:
- Performance by the Tennessee State University Meistersingers
- Woody King Jr. Lifetime Achievement Award honoring Mr. Dello Thedford
- Frankie Muse Freeman Spirit Awards honoring Mary Ferguson & Larry Clark and Emily Pitts
- Performance by the Tennessee State University Meistersingers
How to Support
- Buy Tickets: Single tickets and season subscriptions available
- Attend the Gala: Individual tickets and tables for groups or companies
- Donate: One-time or recurring contributions of any size help sustain programming
- Website: www.theblackrep.org
- Box Office: 314-534-3810
- Administrative Office: 813 North Skinker Boulevard, St. Louis
Black Rep St. Louis, African American theater, Black literature on stage, Black cultural celebration, Ron Himes, Black history in theatre, Black voices, Black arts organization, 49th Black Rep season, African American stories
#BlackRepStLouis #BlackTheatre #AfricanAmericanVoices #BlackLiterature #CulturalHeritage #BlackArts #RonHimes #BlackHistoryMonth #BlackExcellence #TheaterForChange
