Join the Rhode Island Black Film Festival for "Black Classics Under the Stars" Live jazz by Randy Ashe & Company and the feature movie A Raisin in the Sun. Directed by Daniel Petrie, A Raisin in the Sun stars Sidney Poitier and Louis Gossett Jr. (in his film debut). Based on the 1959 play of the same name by Lorraine Hansberry. It follows an African-American family that wants a better life away from Chicago. A Raisin in the Sun was released by Columbia Pictures on May 29, 1961. Award winning Poet Damont Combs aka Mr. Orange is the emcee. Mr. Orange is a Providence Based poet who is nationally recognized for his spoken word.

Jazz Saxaphonist Randy Ashe is a member of the Rhythm & Blues Society of Rhode Island and has received numerous accolades. He plays throughout Rhode Island and was featured in the documentary ‘Do It Man", a RIBFF official selection.

Named on the American Film Institute as one of the most aspiring films and part of the Library of Congress best films.