By: Ashley Copeland
Chapel HIll-based PlayMakers Repertory Company’s production of Fences is a multifaceted take on typical themes of racial prejudice and small-town dreams.
Written by renowned playwright August Wilson, Tony Award- winning Fences tells the trials of Troy Maxson, played by Charlie Robinson, and his family as they attempt to succeed in a white-dominated society in 1950s Pittsburgh. Troy, a former baseball star, is a tragic hero with a disturbing past. Despite previous issues in his earlier life, he manages to settle down with a faithful wife named Rose (Kathryn Hunter-Williams) and buy a home. Problems surface once he discourages his youngest son Cory (Yaegel Welch) from playing football, opening a Pandora’s box of family conflict.
The play features a star-studded all African-American cast. As the dominant actor, Robinson effortlessly executes the complex character of Troy in a way that is raw and authentic. Troy’s complex relationships with the other characters reflects intricate family circles, rendering his performance believable. His performance at times overshadows some of the other characters, though the Wilson’s rendition focuses on Troy.
Similar to classics such as Death of a Salesman, Fences addresses complex topics such as the American Dream and infidelity. Fences will not disappoint with its dynamic cast, gut-wrenching drama, humor and multiple motifs.
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