Theatre & Performing Arts
August Wilson’s “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” April 1, 2026
DIRECTED BY CHUCK SMITH
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR AND MUSIC DIRECTOR HARRY J. LENNIX
“The more music you got in the world, the fuller it is.”
Ma Rainey’s band is waiting. It’s 1927 Chicago, and “The Mother of the Blues” takes her time getting ready to record. Tensions and temperatures rise as the musicians recount tales of rage, joy, betrayal and faith in astonishing stories and a heart-stopping climax. Chicago legends Chuck Smith and Harry J. Lennix reunite for the play that smashed box office records in its 1997 Goodman premiere for this major revival of “a genuine American masterpiece” (Chicago Reader).
Learn more about the area
Venue
Theater & Performing Arts
Goodman Theatre
Goodman Theatre, Chicagos oldest and largest not-for-profit theater, has won international renown for the quality of productions, the depth and diversity of artistic leadership, and…
Neighborhood
Loop
This city center is home to some of Chicago’s most iconic attractions and architecture.
Learn more about the area
Venue
Theater & Performing Arts
Goodman Theatre
Goodman Theatre, Chicagos oldest and largest not-for-profit theater, has won international renown for the quality of productions, the depth and diversity of artistic leadership, and…
Neighborhood
Loop
This city center is home to some of Chicago’s most iconic attractions and architecture.
