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CSUDH Theatre Performance: “Ceremonies in Dark Old Men”

January 26, 2026
Blurred image of a man
What:Ceremonies in Dark Old Men by Lonne Elder III
When:Feb. 25-28 and March 4-7 at 7:00 p.m. and Feb. 27 at 1:00 p.m.
Where:Edison Theatre
Tickets:$12 for students and $20 for General Admission
Contact:Call the CSUDH Performing Arts Department at (310) 243-3589 PerformingArts@csudh.edu.

California State University, Dominguez Hills (CSUDH) Department of Theatre and Dance, in collaboration with Africana Studies, proudly presents Ceremonies in Dark Old Men by Lonne Elder III, a groundbreaking drama that opened doors for a new generation of African American playwrights. Directed by Donis Leonard, performances will be held at the Edison Theatre from February 25-28 and March 4-7 at 7:00 p.m., with a matinee performance on Friday, February 27 at 1:00 p.m.

Set in a Harlem barbershop during the dawn of the civil rights movement, Ceremonies in Dark Old Men paints a poignant portrait of a family yearning for a better life while navigating the harsh realities of their time. With a masterful balance of drama and humor, Elder explores the discontent of a generation that has grown old before its time and the determination of the next generation to avoid such a fate. First produced by the Negro Ensemble Company in 1969, this critically-acclaimed play paved the way for playwrights such as August Wilson and Lynn Nottage.

Ceremonies in Dark Old Men is a timeless story about dreams, resilience, and the cost of survival. It challenges us to reflect on the choices we make and the legacies we leave behind,” says Director Donis Leonard. “I am absolutely thrilled to work with such a gifted group of actors, along with our entire creative team, to bring this powerful story to our campus community for Black history month.”

This production contains adult themes and language and promises an unforgettable theatrical experience that resonates as deeply today as it did over 50 years ago.

Tickets to Ceremonies in Dark Old Men are $12 for students and $20 for General Admission. Tickets may be purchased at www.csudh.edu/theatre/tickets. Performances will take place in the Edison Theatre, located on the CSUDH campus, 1000 E. Victoria St. For driving directions and a map of campus, visit www.csudh.edu/directions. Parking permits are $10 and may be purchased at kiosks near each lot.