Learning Guide: Big White Fog
Check out these resources for academics, enthusiasts, and educators to support your learning and viewing of Big White Fog by Theodore Ward, directed by Resident Artist Ron OJ Parson.
Background
- Synopsis and Characters: Get to know the characters of Big White Fog, read a detailed synopsis of the play, and dive into Washington Park, Chicago, between 1922 and 1932.
- Historical Background, Dramaturgy, and Design: Explore the historical context embedded in Big White Fog, its dramaturgy, and the design of Court Theatre’s production.
Activities and Resources
- Big White Fog Reading List: Enhancing our Community Reads Series for Big White Fog, our friends at the Blackstone Branch of the Chicago Public Library have crafted a custom reading list. Dive into these companion works and experience Theodore Ward’s masterpiece in new ways.
- Big White Fog Library Guide: Courtesy of the University of Chicago Libraries, check out these additional resources, readings, and archival materials that complement the production.
- Please note that many resources in this guide require University of Chicago borrowing privileges. If you are not faculty, staff, or a student at the University of Chicago, you are welcome to use the Library’s print and electronic collections by visiting the Library.
- Glossary: Familiarize yourself with essential vocabulary words from the play.
- Pre-Show Classroom Activity: Guide students to consider how the roots of their circumstances have led to their personalities, interests, and ideals in this reflection activity.
- Post-Show Discussion Activity: Dive into discussion questions that explore themes and impressions of Big White Fog.
- Post-Show Classroom Activity: Guide students to reflect on and draw personal connections to the title of Big White Fog.
Articles
- Staging the Clash of Ideologies in Depression-Era Black America: Garveyism. Communism. Integrationism. Capitalism. Big White Fog has got it all. (Warning – Contains spoilers!)
- Fading Into Obscurity: Theodore Ward’s Big White Fog: Big White Fog skillfully incorporates politics and history into the domestic setting, paving the way for other classic family dramas. Production Dramaturg Khalid Long, PhD, explains how.
- In Conversation: Ron OJ Parson and Ayanna Bria Bakari: “This will be part of Court’s lasting legacy.” Hear from two of the artists bringing Theodore Ward’s Big White Fog to life!
Photos and Videos
Feedback
We’d love to hear what you think of our Learning Guides! Please complete this brief survey to share your feedback.