'Jitney' Keeps it Real at O'Rourke Center

Jitney is August Wilson's first play about a group of Pittsburgh cab drivers who offer car service to their patrons. Set in the late 1970's, Wilson's amazingly vivid story is realized by the fine acting of the Pegasus Players who spend their time in a soon to be torn down office where they receive telephone calls for rides.

The story doesn't contain any flashy special effects, but instead relies on the everyday, true to life interactions of the men who are struggling with their places in the world as they work to make ends meet. The beautifully designed vintage set is right out of the 1970s and the sound-scape of street traffic adds a subtle realism outside the office that permeates the interaction of the men who reveal more and more about themselves and their lives as we peer into their world.

Directing Jitney is Jonathan Wilson whose work has appeared at Steppenwolf, Goodman, Northlight and Victory Gardens. In the list of actors who deliver standout performances are Alfred H. Wilson, J.J. McCormick and Ray Baker. Supporting roles include additional strong performances by Taj McCord, M.K. Quaintance, Foster Williams, Jr., Sean Nix, Heather Ireland and Randolph Johnson.

Jitney is being performed by Pegasus Players at the O'Rourke Center, Truman College through October 28. To purchase tickets call (866) 811-4111.

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