Hello! I just saw the Jitney popped up on TDF today. Has anyone heard much about this one? It sounds interesting but I'm hoping to hear some early reports or see some rehearsal footage. I know it isn't even in previews yet so I'm not sure how much information is out there.
I saw Ruben Santiago Hudson's production at Two Rivers in New Jersey and it was first rate (I believe he's doing it at MTC.) It's easily August Wilson's most enjoyable play if not his greatest. I would imagine this version will be well worth seeing, and, if you're not a Wilson follower, a terrific introduction to his work.
I saw a strong production a few years ago. It's worth seeing, but as a Wilson fan, I wouldn't call it his best play. One the other, Jitney and Fences are good introductions to his work.
Saw Fences a few nights back at a special screening and enjoyed it so much that I went ahead and bought tickets to Jitney while I'm in NYC next week. I'll be sure to report back my thoughts. Thanks for the info, everyone.
I'm trying to "collect" all the August Wilson plays. So far I've seen Ma Rainey (years and years ago, so I would love to see it again; I'm so sorry I didn't make the trip to Two River to see it), Two Trains Running, and the wonderful Piano Lesson at Signature a couple of years back. So I'm excited to see Jitney! I believe director Ruben Santiago Hudson is considered to be the premier interpreter of Wilson's plays.