The Studio Theatre is proud to open its 2008-2009 Season with Blues for an Alabama Sky by Pearl Cleage. Young African-American Detroiters who are committed to furthering their educations and expanding their horizons at Wayne State University comprise the cast. The ensemble consists of Erica Fuller as "Angel," Benjamin Williams as "Guy," Brittany Fortune as "Delia," William Bryson as "Sam" and Justin Crutchfield as "Leland." The show opens on October 23 with performances at 8:00 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays and runs until November 1.

Blues for an Alabama Sky is an eye-opening commentary focusing on the musicians, artists and social activists in poverty-stricken 1930s Harlem. Within that context Pearl Cleage addresses several social taboos: religion, homosexuality and abortion. The rich cast of characters struggles to survive the hard economic times brought upon by the Great Depression, but "Guy Jacobs" encourages his friends to look beyond 125th street for the fulfillment of their dreams.

Today's Detroit is in similar economic straits, but the community continues to strive to rise above these challenges. Currently, the citizens of Detroit are making efforts to ensure that young adults are receiving opportunities to improve their quality of life through education and the arts, and Wayne State University is at the forefront of that initiative.

Through their own individual challenges, the Detroit actors in Blues recognize the uphill social climb they face due to their ethnicity and because they live in a time of economic recession. But they do not let such difficulties deter them. As they work toward their Bachelors Degrees they continue to dream, taking the essential steps to rise above adversity.

Yet, taking the actions necessary to improve your quality of life isn't an easy task. In order to change it takes commitment, dedication and courage. As seen in the play, "Guy" dreams about plans beyond his Harlem neighborhood and actively pursues those dreams. "Angel," on the other hand, is self-destructive and ruins any chance she might have for happiness. The director, Darryl Davis, "believes the play lends itself to the examination of what is ailing the black community in Harlem and subsequently in the African-American Community of today."

Blues for an Alabama Sky is directed by Ph.D. candidate Darryl Davis. The designers include Adam Crinson as scenic designer, Susan Campbell as assistant scenic designer, Kristal Firman as costume designer and Katie Casebolt as assistant costume designer.

The Studio Theatre is located downstairs at the Hilberry Theatre: 4743 Cass Ave., Detroit, MI 48202. Ticket prices range from $10-$12. Discounts are available to all students, senior citizens aged 62 and up, and WSU faculty, staff and Alumni Association members. For tickets and more information please call (313) 577-2972, visit www.wsushows.com or visit the Wayne State University box office at 4743 Cass on the corner of Cass and Hancock.

Season sponsored by CBS Outdoor, Between the Lines, Encore Michigan, and the Times Herald newspapers.