EXCLUSIVE: Congo Square Theatre Navigates Ensemble Rift, Affirms 2025 Season Plans

Harry Lennix as August Wilson in “How I Learned What I Learned” for the Congo Square Theatre Company (Photo Courtesy of Congo Square Theatre/Facebook). The Congo Square Theatre, one of the nation’s most celebrated Black theater companies, finds itself at a crossroads as its ensemble has publicly declared their intention to withdraw from the 2025 season while pushing for the ouster of board chair Dawn Reese.& In an interview with The Chicago Defender, Congo Square’s interim executive director Charles A. Montori-Archer responded to the situation, affirming the revered Chicago organization’s commitment to fulfilling its mission, supporting its board chair and moving forward with its 2025 programming.& Speaking just days after the ensemble issued a press release stating that its members unanimously decided “not participate in any production, artistic curating and programming for the upcoming 2025 Season” until Reese is removed, Montori-Archer began with an unflinching assertion: “Congo Square Theatre Company remains confident in our mission, vision and the strength of our leadership. Our board fully supports this leadership and remains committed to working with all stakeholders in furtherance of meaningful and transformative work at our Congo Square Theatre company.” A Surprising Announcement The ensemble’s statement caught Montori-Archer off guard, stating...