Dayton Theatre Guild | Dayton OH
Opening Night of a Classic!
Last night, I finally made it to the Dayton Theatre Guild, nestled in the heart of the Oregon District at The Caryl D. Philips TheatreScape, 430 Wayne Avenue, Dayton, OH 45410.
It was opening night of A Raisin in the Sun, one of my all-time favorite plays that I’ve never seen performed live (yes, I own all three versions on DVD). I’ve watched them repeatedly, but seeing it unfold in person was something else entirely.
A quick bit of history: Lorraine Hansberry’s landmark drama was the first play written by an African-American woman to be produced on Broadway, premiering in New York on March 11, 1959, where it achieved great acclaim – delivering a powerful portrayal of dreams, dignity, and the drive for change.
The Cast Who Brought It to Life
The stage was graced by a truly stellar local cast:
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Walter Lee Younger – Shaun Diggs
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Lena Younger (Mama) – Gail Andrews Turner
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Ruth Younger – Cormari Pullings
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Beneatha Younger – Amirah Musa
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Travis Younger – Dominic Bothers
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George Murchison – Jarrod Davis
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Joseph Asagai – William Boatwright
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Bobo – Andre Tomlinson
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Karl Lindner – Rick Flynn
Each actor carried their role with remarkable passion and nuance; it was impossible to pick a favorite. I resonated with every character differently. The ensemble felt seamless.
The venue is charmingly intimate; it’s the kind of space that magically makes you feel like you’re part of the world unfolding onstage. As the lights dimmed and the door to the Younger family’s apartment swung open, I felt myself drawn into their hopes and struggles from the very first line.
The performance began at exactly 8:15 pm and closed near 11 pm, with one intermission (which flew by; it’s a testament to how gripping the show was). The set design? Surprisingly elaborate, more so than I’d dared to imagine. From the worn-out apartment furniture to the faint details of Chicago’s 1950s South Side, every piece grounded the story in authenticity. The production team delivered an absolutely amazing performance that breathed fresh life into every scene. I won’t go into detail of the story itself; if you know, you know. But if you haven’t, I won’t give away any spoilers here. Just know that they did the story justice!
After the final applause, the doors opened, and tradition took over: it being opening night, the reception began. The lobby was filled with the aroma of pizza, cookies, beer, wine, and a selection of non-alcoholic drinks graciously provided by local restaurants.
The cast emerged, mingling, laughing, hugging, and glowing in well-deserved admiration from family, friends, and the audience. I watched them in awe, feeling that warm swell of proud community energy. I almost talked myself out of going; it was so impromptu, but seeing it live was exactly what I didn’t know I needed.
I was genuinely blown away by everything: the venue, the talent, the history, the vibrant local theater community. I’m so glad I went. I’ll definitely be back for more at the Dayton Theatre Guild.
