Kansas University scholars John Edgar Tidwell and Maryemma Graham will introduce a powerful script-in-hand performance of “Something Semple: The Power of Langston Hughes” at the Kansas City Public Library.

“Something Semple” captures the vitality and mood of Harlem in the 1950s while delving into the fictional conversations between Hughes and Jesse B. Semple, an everyday man whose outlook on relationships, family values and race relations prove relevant and topical 50 years later. For two days in January, the Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre will bring this lost world of Harlem to the Library when Hughes’ stories are brought to life.

Tidwell, an associate professor in the English Department at KU, will present “Something Semple” at 2 p.m. Thursday at the Plaza Branch, 4801 Main St.

Graham, a professor in the English department, will present at 6 p.m. Jan. 18 at the Central Library, 14 West 10th Street.

Graham originally went to KU as a Langston Hughes visiting professor.

Admission to these performances is free, but reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

To reserve a seat to “Something Semple,” call (816) 701-3407.