THE AMEN CORNERTuesday, August 5–Sunday, August 17. Arkansas Repertory Theatre. $20–$65.
Until recently, I didn t realize that James Baldwin in addition to being one of our nation s most important and celebrated novelists, essayists and public intellectuals was also a playwright. In fact, it was the announcement of the Arkansas Repertory Theatre s 2025 summer season lineup, which includes Baldwin s The Amen Corner, that brought to my attention his dabblings in dramaturgy. That s exciting stuff, and a sign that arts institutions like The Rep are playing a critical role in exposing our or at least this writer s cultural blindspots. The first of only two plays written by Baldwin, The Amen Corner situates theatergoers in Harlem, where the credibility of storefront preacher Margaret Alexander s fiery operation is threatened by the return of her estranged husband. Originally published in 1954, this powerful, music-filled production features different guest choirs from throughout the community at every performance. Get tickets at therep.org .
It’s dragon-slaying time!
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