Useni Eugene Perkins Playwright Workshop

Useni Eugene Perkins was a celebrated Chicago poet, playwright, youth advocate, and one of the most influential figures in Black arts and arts education. He is widely known for writing The Black Fairy and the poem Hey Black Child, works that have inspired generations of young people. Throughout his career, he combined artistic excellence with a commitment to youth development and community empowerment.

“Useni Perkins’ legacy is woven into the fabric of eta Creative Arts Foundation. As a playwright, poet, educator, trustee, and champion of Black youth, his work reflected eta’s commitment to telling our stories in the first person. Through beloved works such as The Black Fairy and his decades of leadership and service, he helped shape generations of artists, audiences, and community leaders. eta proudly honors his enduring contributions to African American theater, arts education, and cultural preservation.

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eta continues to honor Perkins through its educational programming, including the Useni Perkins Playwriting Workshop, which encourages emerging writers to develop their voices and tell authentic stories for the stage.