A Staged Reading by Definition Theatre
The Last Senior Home in Bronzeville
by Nikki Carpenter
directed by Sydney Charles
Saturday, September 27 | 3 pm
Definition Theatre, 1160 E. 55th St
As part of Goodman Theatre’s 100 Free Acts of Theater.
Please note: Complimentary reservations are required for admission; however, seating is general admission and not guaranteed. We encourage patrons to arrive early to ensure a seat. Late seating is not guaranteed.
About
In a neighborhood rich with rhythm, history, and soul, one final fight is brewing—and it’s being led by the elders. Daley’s Senior Home is the last of its kind in a rapidly gentrifying Bronzeville. With their beloved community vanishing before their eyes, the residents of Daley’s must decide: go quietly, or go out swinging— senior citizen style. A timely story of resistance, resilience, and the joyfully defiant spirit of those too experienced to be ignored.
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“These characters have lived in my mind for a while now. I’m delighted for the opportunity to finally bring them to life. The Last Senior Home in Bronzeville is a multi-layered Bronzeville love story. Fused with imagination and history, The Last Senior Home in Bronzeville tackles what it means to preserve a neighborhood and the people in it, in the midst of gentrification.”
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“The Last Senior Home in Bronzeville is a story of legacy, resilience, and the fight to hold onto home. It honors those who built this city, shaped its history, and refuse to be erased. This play is a testament to the humor, heart, and strength of those who have lived through change and continue to stand in their truth.
As you witness this work, you have full permission—and encouragement—to be authentically you, especially the Black Delegation. Laugh, nod, side-eye, call-and-respond—engage however feels right. This is for us.
Thank you for showing up, for witnessing, and for remembering.”
Artists
Dr. Rupe — AC Smith
Beverly Thompson — TayLar
Carol "Honey" Jones — Gabrielle Lott Rogers
Joseph "Harlem Joe" Greer — Darren Jones
Barbara Shabazz — Joslyn Jones
Toya — Kristin E. Ellis
Willie — Joseph Primes
Stage Manager — Ariel Beller*
Stage Directions — Tia Pinson
Producer — Quenna Barrett
Goodman Coord. Producer — Ericka Ratcliff
Goodman Artistic Coordinator — Emi Suarez
Artistic Director — Tyrone Phillips*
Executive Director — Neel McNeill*
Civic Engagement Director — Willow James*
Creative Director — Ari Craven*
Marketing Director — Jacqueline Rosas*
Business Manager — Alexandra Oparka*
Audience Services Coordinator — Ashley Keys
Exec. Asst. — Lo Williams
Grants Coordinator — Lydia Moss
* Definition Ensemble Member
Run Time — 90 minutes
Special Thanks — Court Theater & Logan Center for the Arts
Goodman Theatre’s
100 Free Acts of Theater
An epic citywide year-long event—100 Free Acts of Theater—activates all 50 wards of Chicago.
Designed as a celebration of the artistic fabric of our Chicago, The Goodman is partnering with Definition Theatre and organizations across the city during its Centennial Season to amplify existing programming and collaborate on new efforts.
These artistic performances, special events and community engagement offerings are intended to give back to the incredible community that has supported The Goodman over the past 100 years.
All 100 acts are offered FREE, with participation open to Chicagoans of all ages and backgrounds.
More at GoodmanTheatre.org/100FreeActs
Questions? info@definitiontheatre.org
Drink Sponsor
Production image: Four Houses by Frederick Schock 3