Pennsylvania Playhouse has staged a powerful and emotionally rich production of August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play “Fences.”
The haunting and compelling play is being presented through April 13 at Pennsylvania Playhouse,390 Illick’s Mill Road, Bethlehem.
Written in 1985, “Fences” is the sixth in Wilson's ten-part "Pittsburgh Cycle" dealing with changing issues of race and family dynamics.
Willie Wo is dynamic as the flawed Troy Maxson, a former baseball player now working as a garbage collector. Troy had had a promising career with the Negro Baseball League, but couldn’t play for Major League Baseball because he was black. And even in his job, he is excluded from a better position - being able to drive the garbage truck - because of his race.
Wo’s Troy is complex - rebellious, responsible, tough, loving and hiding his bitterness at the unfairness of life with bluster and humor. However, as he struggles with his many disappointments, he ultimately pushes away his own family. The fence he is building around his modest house is a metaphor for all the fences he has faced and is building in his life. Wo skillfully portrays Troy’s sad but self-inflicted decline.
Juanita Renay is effective as Troy’s wife Rose, a strong, good woman, whom Troy loves but betrays because of his own frustration with his life. Renay gives Rose depth, humor, passion and dignity and the character rises above her situation.
The conflict between Troy and his son, Marquett Ferell’s heartfelt Cory, is palpable. Wo’s Troy is torn between jealousy and protectiveness as he stands in the way when Cory is recruited for a football scholarship at a nearby college. Ferell gives a memorable performance as Cory who is angry, rebellious and resentful, but also his father’s son.
As Troy’s son Lyons from his first marriage, TyRonn Brewington delivers a care-free and good-natured performance.
Troy’s brother Gabe, who was left brain-damaged by an injury during the war and believes he is the angel Gabriel, is wonderfully portrayed by Jaciel Cordoba, who gives the character a sweetness and touching naivete.
Devin T. Dobson is appealing as Troy’s kind and bemused best friend, whose clear-eyed insight is heartbreaking.
As Troy’s young illegitimate daughter who appears in the final scene, Jalianna M. Miller is sweetly charming.
All the characters ring painfully true under the deft direction of Adam Newborn.
The set by Michael Lavelle Schofield, is atmospheric, bringing to life the shabby but welcoming home. Ambient sounds of traffic and city noise add to the effect.
Rachel Williams’ costumes have just the right look, particularly Renay’s constantly changing 1950s era dresses.
There will be a cast talk back after the April 5 performance. This performance is pay what you will.
Tickets are $25 for adults; $22 for seniors and $16 for students.
Performances are 7:30 p.m. April 4, 5, 11 and 12; and 3 p.m. April 6 and 13
For information, call 610-865-6665, or go to www.paplayhouse.org/.