1950s Chicago, when a black President was unthinkable, is far removed from American society today.

But Lorraine Hansberry's A Raisin in the Sun is a powerful play exploring issues which are still as relevant today as they were back then.

Director Michael Buffong does the gripping drama justice, timing the comedy moments perfectly alongside the more dramatic and shocking moments where racial hatred comes to the surface — although not as overt as it once was.

The play tells the story of a struggling black family trying to survive in America — with one blaming his colour for his lot in life while another believes she can achieve her ambition to be a doctor while struggling to understand her heritage.

Their lives are changed forever when the family comes into money, and dreams of going to college, owning their own house suddenly become a reality.

Star of the show is undoubtedley Starletta DuPois, who plays Lena Younger the head of the family. Her supberb performanc stops the play from becoming a melodrama and empathy with the characters is not lost.

But it is such a shame when a play is ruined by children talking in the audience and kicking the back of seats.

Apart from the that the play gave plenty of food for thought about issues of race and betterment and the civil rights movement.

* Until February 20.