by D. Porter Stewart

Langston Hughes is one of the more controversial names in the history of American poetry.  He is among the most eloquent American poets to have sung about the wounds caused by social and political injustice. Though he never sought to be all things to all people, he managed to create a body of work that epitomized the beauty and variety of the African-American and American experiences, as well as the diversity of emotions, thoughts, and dreams that he saw common to all human beings.

What would be of hip-hop if Langston Hughes never took to poetry or of Civil Rights if the Harlem Renaissance never flourished? D. Porter Stewart's Soul of Langston answers those questions in a humorous, witty and enlightening play depicting the Black Shakespearean.

Soul of Langston journeys from the early inspirations and writings of Langston's poetry to his many contributions and influences on American writing. In a study room, Langston reflects back on his childhood, his most signature poems and his notable achievements through his writings.

The production explores Langston's poetic statement:  "I too sing America.  I too am America."  And also poses the question to all, "What happens to a dream deferred?" from Langston's famous poem.