Harper Ensemble Theater to present 'Anna in the Tropics'

The Northwest suburbs will heat up, at least on the stage, this weekend and next with the Harper Ensemble Theater Company's production of "Anna in the Tropics."

Set in 1929 in Ybor City, Florida, the play tells the story of a group of Cuban-American immigrants who maintain the cigar rolling industry with pride and tradition.

While workers toil away in the sultry heat, a well-spoken and well-dressed lector arrives and reads "Anna Karenina" to them, igniting their passions, even as they struggle to uphold tradition in the face of encroaching mechanization.

Winner of the 2003 Pulitzer Prize for drama, the play by acclaimed Cuban-American playwright Nilo Cruz depicts the struggles and loves of these Cuban-Americans facing a changing world.

Directed by Kevin Long, the Harper Ensemble Theater Company will present "Anna in the Tropics" Friday through Sunday, March 16-18 and March 23-25, at the Performing Arts Center on the college's main campus, 1200 W. Algonquin Road in Palatine. Performances take place at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays.

For Saturday performances, Arthur Murray Dance Studio will give Latin ballroom dancing lessons in the Performing Arts Center lobby from 7 p.m. until 15 minutes before the performance. Sunday performances will offer complimentary coffee and a special preshow conversation with the director and the dramaturge from 1 to 1:45 p.m.

Tickets are $15 for seniors, Harper students, faculty and staff; general admission is $18. For tickets, contact the Harper College Box Office at (847) 925-6100 or visit harpercollege.edu/boxoffice.