Black Ensemble Theater Founder and Executive Director Jackie Taylor announces the return of Soul of A Powerful Woman, now in its 11th triumphant year. The one-night premier fundraising event will feature a cast of powerful women who will take to the stage to act, sing and dance in true Black Ensemble style. The 2025 performance, with the theme of “We Shall Overcome,” is curated by Jackie Taylor. The event will be held on Sunday, June 8 at 6:00pm at Black Ensemble Theater, 4450 N. Clark St. in Chicago.
Tickets are $65 and are available at www.blackensemble.org. Sponsorships and ticket purchases will support the mission of Black Ensemble Theater: to eradicate racism through the utilization of theater arts and community engagement. The benefit supports Black Ensemble Theater as it continues to create bold productions, deliver youth education programs, and build bridges across communities.
Soul of a Powerful Woman: We Shall Overcome is more than a performance—it’s a celebration of resilience, artistry, and the enduring power of women to shape change. This one-night-only event features a dynamic cast of Chicago’s most inspiring leaders—including artists, activists, government trailblazers, business innovators, and beloved Black Ensemble Theater performers, united on stage through music, dance, and storytelling.
The cast of Soul of A Powerful Woman includes: U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky, Managing Partner of Cleveland Avenue Andrea Zopp, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, Activist Hedy Ratner and stars of Black Ensemble Theater. Additional participants will be announced soon.
Jackie Taylor comments, “Some of the most outstanding women leaders in Chicago will be joining us at Black Ensemble Theater to inspire and entertain during this popular event. We welcome everyone to come out and support one of Black Ensemble’s most exciting events of the year! The annual fundraiser is an opportunity to engage with these Powerful Women, socialize with other theatergoers and to watch thrilling and inspiring musical performances while supporting the mission of Black Ensemble Theater.”
Black Ensemble Theater
Founded in 1976, by the phenomenal producer, playwright and actress Jackie Taylor, Black Ensemble Theater is the only African American theater located in the culturally, racially, and ethnically diverse north side Uptown community. Through its Four Play Season of Excellence, The Black Ensemble Theater dazzles audiences locally, nationally, and internationally with outstanding original musicals that are entertaining, educational, and uplifting. The Black Ensemble Theater has produced more than 100 productions and employed over 5,000 artists.
The mission of the Black Ensemble Theater Company is to eradicate racism and its devastating effects upon society through the theater arts and community engagement. For more information on the Black Ensemble Theater Company, visit www.BlackEnsembleTheater.org or call 773-769-4451.