Join the executive directors from two of Chicago’s leading theater companies, and an artistic director from one of the city’s young, avant-garde theater companies, as they talk with theater critic Jonathan Abarbanel about Hope Abelson, one of Chicago’s strongest leaders in theater for half a century.

Hope Abelson’s influence and support sustained large and small theaters in the city throughout the post-war period and late twentieth century, and her legacy continues through the Lester and Hope Abelson Fund for the Performing Arts at the Chicago Community Trust that annually awards two small Chicago theaters for their artistic excellence and innovation. During the month of October the Newberry displayed a selection of Abelson’s papers, which the Library holds as part of its Midwest Manuscript Collection.

Panelists include: Jonathan Abarbanel, contributor for Chicago Public Radio (moderator); Rachel E. Kraft, Lookingglass Theatre Company; Roche Schulfer, Goodman Theatre; and Jamil Khoury, Silk Road Theater Project.

Recorded Tuesday, October 21, 2008 at The Newberry Library.