Fences

August Wilson‘s
Fences

The Sarah Belle & Neil November Theatre
Richmond, VA

February 2020

Directed by Tawnya Pettiford-Wates
Scenic Design by Josafath Reynoso
Costume Design by Nia Safarr Banks
Lighting Design by Andrew Bonniwell
Sound Design by Nicholas Seaver 
Stage Manager: Jocelyn A. Thompson 

Produced by Virginia Repertory Theatre

Photo Credit: Josafath Reynoso

“Fences” is a Pulitzer Prize-winning play written by August Wilson. Set in the 1950s, the story revolves around Troy Maxson, an African American former baseball player who now works as a garbage collector in Pittsburgh. The play primarily unfolds in Troy’s backyard, where he builds a fence as a symbolic barrier against the racial discrimination and societal challenges he faces.

Troy is a complex character, grappling with his past, dashed dreams of a baseball career due to racial barriers, and strained relationships with his family. His wife, Rose, and their son, Cory, become central figures in the narrative. The tension between Troy and Cory escalates as Troy’s own experiences shape his expectations for his son’s future.

The play delves into themes of race, generational conflicts, and the impact of broken dreams on familial relationships. Wilson’s work is celebrated for its exploration of the African American experience and the powerful, poignant storytelling that reflects broader societal issues. “Fences” is part of August Wilson’s ten-play cycle, each set in a different decade, known as The Pittsburgh Cycle or The Century Cycle, depicting the African American experience throughout the 20th century.