Oakton Presents ‘Trouble in Mind’ Oct. 19-20

The staged reading “Trouble in Mind,” by award-winning and pioneering playwright Alice Childress, will be presented 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19 and 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20, at Oakton Community College’s Skokie campus, 7701 N. Lincoln Ave., in Room P103-104.

The drama explores what happens when black actors performing in a play about lynching and Southern racism must deal with the condescending attitude of their white male director. The play’s lead character, Wiletta Mayer, stands up to him, revealing his racist attitudes, but faces severe consequences as a result of her action.

“Our staged readings showcase the words of a play, more than a full performance,” says Chair of Performing Arts John Frisco, professor of speech and theater. “The purpose in this is to expose the audience to works dealing with social and political issues.”

“Trouble in Mind” won an Obie Award for the best off-Broadway play of the 1955-56 season, making Childress the first black woman to be awarded the honor.

General admission tickets are $8 and $6 for students and seniors. Purchase online at www.oakton.edu/tickets or call 847-635-1900.