The theme of place and identity is powerfully revealed through first hand accounts from the people and personalities who have transformed the city through their vision and ingenuity. The Chicago Treasures series focuses on Chicagoans who have imagined what Chicago could be - people whose work has defined the city, while the city has defined their work. From architects who have built the City’s skyline to journalists and authors who give voice to people and places to entrepreneurs who give strength to the City of Big Shoulders and to artists who draw from and interpret the City’s inner spirit, this series will frame the question: Why Chicago? What opportunities does the city offer to those who wish to take risks; what challenges does it reveal; and what are the rewards and frustrations that they continue to face?

From Harriet Monroe to David Mamet, Chicago has been the birthplace of some of the most groundbreaking literature and theater in American history.  Join award winning author, poet and playwright Ana Castillo and award winning director Robert Falls as they discuss the city’s influence on those art forms - and their own work today.

Recorded Wednesday, April 18, 2007 at Chicago History Museum.