It is a masterpiece that tells the story of the life of an African American family, the Maxsons, and their struggles in the 1950s. The production is both heart-wrenching and uplifting, and it is a true testament to the talent of playwright, August Wilson.

August Wilson, the African American playwright referred to as the "theatre's poet of Black america", best known for his astonishing plays like Fences. Piano lesson, Ma Rainey's Black Bottom and the Pittsburgh Cycle, which chronicles the experiences and heritage of the African-American community in the 20th century. 

He won a Pulitzer prize and a Tony award for his play Fences and earned a second Pulitzer prize for the Piano lesson. Audiences from all around the world have been blessed with moments to feast on palatable text from pieces like Ma Rainey's Black bottom, Seven Guitars, and Jitney, just to mention a few of his works. 

Fences is a 1985 play. set in the 1950s, it is the sixth in Wilson's ten-part "Pittsburgh cycle. Like all of the "Pittsburgh" plays, Fences explores the evolving African-American experience and examines race relations, among other themes. 

At the height of the civil rights movement, August Wilson penned the most astonishing stories of the everyday man and woman. He weaved intricate narratives that told the stories of dreamers and dreams deferred. Fences will be directed by the American playwright and theatre director, Ricardo Khan an acclaimed director on both American and international stages. Khan co-founded the Tony award-winning and highly influential crossroads theatre company of New Jersey. 

August Wilson's Fences is presented by arrangement with concord theatrical! on behalf of samuel french inc www.concordthe atricals.com

The opening night of the production at Joburg Theatre was a star-studded event. As I walked down the red carpet, I was surrounded by famous actors, actresses, and industry leading individuals. One of the guests that I was lucky enough to see was the award-winning and super talented Warren Masemola. 

The atmosphere was electric, and there was a sense of excitement and anticipation in the air as the guests made their way to their seats.

The show began with a few words from the esteemed director, Dr John Kani. He thanked the audience for their attendance and spoke about how much this production means to him. His passion for the play was palpable, and it was clear that he had put his heart and soul into directing this production.

The South African cast for the play was phenomenal. The lead actor, Tumisho Masha, played the role of the main character, Troy Maxson, with grace and conviction. He portrayed Troy’s struggles, fears, and hopes with a level of intensity that was both captivating and heart-wrenching. His performance was a testament to his talent and his ability to bring the character to life on stage.

The play is set in the 1950s and tells the story of the Maxson family. The story revolves around Troy Maxson, a former baseball player who now works as a garbage collector. 

He is a hardworking man who has always provided for his family, but he is also deeply flawed. He is prone to bouts of anger and resentment, and he struggles to understand why he has been denied the opportunity to live his life to the fullest.

One of the topics that the show talks about is the impact of racism on African American families. The play explores the ways in which racism has shaped the lives of the Maxsons and how it has impacted their relationships with each other. The play also delves into the themes of family, fatherhood, and the American dream.

The production is a powerful reminder of the need for understanding and compassion in our lives. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of never giving up on our dreams. The play is a source of inspiration for all of us, and it encourages us to look within ourselves and find the strength to overcome the obstacles that stand in our way.

One of the topics that the show highlights is the impact of racism on African American families. 

This is a subject that is as relevant today as it was in the 1950s. Racism is still a major issue in many countries around the world, and it continues to have a profound impact on the lives of people of colour. 

The play explores the ways in which racism has shaped the lives of the Maxsons and how it has impacted their relationships with each other. It is a powerful reminder of the need for us to come together as a society and work to eliminate racism in all its forms.

The play’s impact on a South African audience is significant. South Africa has a long history of racial oppression, and the play serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up against injustice and working to build a better world for all. 

It is a call to action, urging us to be more compassionate and understanding of one another

Visit the Joburg Theatre website for their upcoming shows this month.