The West Coast Black Theater Troupe is proud to present the dramatic production of its 25th anniversary season: “Fences” by August Wilson. The play is the sixth in Wilson's 10-part “American Century Cycle,” which examines the experiences and race relations of African Americans in various decades of the 20th century.
The show, directed by WBTT Education Director/Artistic Associate Jim Weaver, runs January 15 through February 23, 2025. Performances take place at WBTT's Donelly Theater (1012 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota). The performances take place Tuesday to Saturday from 7:30 p.m., and on Saturdays and Sundays the matinee takes place at 2:00 p.m. (There will be a talk-back after the matinee show on Sunday, February 9th.)
Since its debut in 1985, “Fences” has been a crowd favorite. The touching, funny and sometimes brutal drama won numerous awards, including the 1987 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the 1987 Tony Award for Best Play. It is considered one of the most important African American pieces of the 20th century.
In 2016, Broadway veteran and two-time Oscar winner Denzel Washington directed and starred in the film adaptation of “Fences” for HBO, the same play that earned him a Tony Award for Best Actor in 2010. Washington had previously announced plans to produce nine of them and Wilson is starring for HBO.
“Fences” explores the complex and evolving challenges of the black community and the obstacles they must overcome to establish a safe home in a racist society in 1950s Pittsburgh. At its core, the play examines the evolving African American experience during a time of significant social change in America.
Set against the backdrop of racial segregation and the fight for civil rights, “Fences” follows Troy Maxson, a former baseball player turned trash collector, and his family. Troy represents the thwarted dreams of many African Americans of his generation, whose talents were often limited by systemic racism. His bitterness and disillusionment are palpable as he wrestles with the reality of his life and his broken relationships.
The titular fence that Troy builds around his house symbolizes separation, but also protection from the outside world. It represents both the literal and metaphorical barriers Troy puts up to protect himself and his family, but it also represents the emotional walls he has built due to his own unresolved issues and regrets.
The story focuses on Troy's relationships with his wife Rose, their son Cory and Lyons, Troy's son from a previous marriage. His strained relationship with Cory reflects his own troubled past and unresolved conflicts. As Troy struggles with his own demons, he inadvertently perpetuates a cycle of pain and disappointment in his family, forcing the members of his family to examine their own lives and feelings.
Interestingly, Jim Weaver directed WBTT's only previous production of “Fences” in 2007, his first ever encounter with and collaboration with the troupe.
“In addition to the enormous artistic significance of this amazing work, it is wonderful to have the opportunity to revisit it here at WBTT after all these years,” Weaver said. “My perspective is completely different compared to the first production. The company has also grown in many ways. So this new production offers the opportunity to reflect all of that at the same time.”
The cast of “Fences” consists of: Lee Palmer (Troy Maxson), Ariel Blue (Rose Maxson), Leon S. Pitts II (Gabriel Maxson), Zion Thompson (Corey Maxson), Donovan Whitney (Lyons Maxson), Brian L. Boyd (Jim Bono) and Riley Aparicio-Jerro (Raynell). The understudies are Gabriela Gubello (Raynell), Syreeta S. Banks (Rose), Patric Robinson (Troy), Terry Span (Bono/Gabriel), and Benjamin Roberts (Cory/Lyons).
Production Manager is Kevin White, Production Stage Manager is Juanita Munford, Assistant Stage Manager is KaCie Ley, Set Designer is Roland Black, Costume Designer is Faye Manselle, Object Designer is Annette Breazeale, Lighting Designer is Michael Pasquini, Sound Designer is Patrick Russini, and Sound Engineer is Alex Judd.
Tickets are $52/adults, $22/students and active military (ages 25 and under, with valid ID). Call the box office (941-366-1505) or visit westcoastblacktheatre.org.
About the West Coast Black Theater Troupe
The mission of the Westcoast Black Theater Troupe (WBTT) is to produce professional theater that promotes and celebrates the history and experience of African Americans. engages a broad base of supporters and audiences; supports the development of a dynamic group of emerging artists; and strengthens the self-confidence of youth of color. For more information, visit westcoastblacktheatre.org.