Author Description

Product Description First produced by the Negro Ensemble Company in 1969, this classic masterpiece by Academy Award® nominee Lonne Elder III gives us the portrait of a Harlem family that dreams of a better life, but pursues it in tragic ways. Ceremonies opened the door for new generation of African American playwrights, August Wilson among them. NBC-TV called Elders dramatization of rituals ""exciting drama, filled with meaningful insight and original comedy."" A L.A. Theatre Works full-cast performance featuring: Rocky Carroll, John Cothran Jr.(Sunday only), Brandon Dirden, Jason Dirden, Julia Pace Mitchell, Charlie Robinson, Glynn Turman and Michole Briana White. Review "A remarkable play. Mr. Elder's theme of a man struggling for honesty in a world where honesty is not so much a luxury as an incongruity works wonderfully. It is moving, and realistic."--Clive Barnes, The New York Times"If any American has written a finer play I can't think of what it is."--Edith Oliver, The New Yorker"Elder is one of the most important playwrights in America and an author of rare integrity and creative strength." --Richard Watts, Jr., New York Post From the Back Cover This classic play by Academy Award nominee Lonne Elder III gives us the portrait of a Harlem family that dreams of a better life, but pursues it in tragic ways. First produced by the Negro Ensemble Company in 1969, the critically acclaimed Ceremonies in Dark Old Men opened the door for a new generation of African American playwrights, including August Wilson and Lynn Nottage. An L.A. Theatre Works full-cast performance featuring Rocky Carroll, Brandon Dirden, Jason Dirden, Julia Pace Mitchell, Charlie Robinson, Glynn Turman and Michole Briana White. Directed by Judyann Elder. Recorded before a live audience at the Skirball Cultural Center, Los Angeles. About the Author Lonne Elder III (1926-96) was born in Americus, Georgia. He appeared on Broadway in the original production of