Performance Network Theatre Extends The Piano Lesson Thru 4/10

Due to great responses from both critics and audiences, Performance Network Theatre will extend its production of "The Piano Lesson," the Pulitzer Prize-winner by August Wilson. This production will now run through April 10, at which point it must close in order for the theatre to prepare for it's late April production of "Circle Mirror Transformation" by Annie Baker.

A powerful play from the author of "Fences." Set in Pittsburgh in 1936 in the home of an African American family from Mississippi, the story centers around a piano that was once traded for two of their ancestors. Boy Willie wants to sell the piano and make a new future, while Berniece clings tightly to the memories it engenders. In this American masterpiece, Wilson gives us a haunting and mythic tale of a family at war with the past.

Critics have called PNT's production of this family drama "irresistible," "rich" and a "rare pleasure." AnnArbor.com critic, Jenn McKee, heralds a particular musical moment in the production "One of the most captivating, time-suspending theater moments you'll likely experience this year...The rendition by itself may be worth the price of admission."

Artistic Director David Wolber said "I'm extremely pleased that we've gotten such an enormous response from audiences for this show. It's moving and very funny, musical and a bit supernatural. 'The Piano Lesson' has something for everyone, wrapped up in a package of brilliant writing, a unique voice that only August Wilson can provide."

Weekly performances are Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 8pm and Sunday at 2pm, with a 3pm matinee on Saturday April 2.

There will not be a performance on Saturday, April 9, due to Performance Network's fundraising gala, Spring Fantasia.

Tickets can be ordered at the Performance Network Box Office at 734-663-0681, online at
www.performancenetwork.org or by coming to the Performance Network Theatre (120 East Huron St., Ann Arbor, 48104) Monday-Saturday 11-6 or one hour before a performance. Tickets are priced at $25 - $41, with discounts available for seniors, members, students and groups.

This production is generously underwritten by Linda Sprankle and Bob and Marina Whitman.

Founded in 1981, Performance Network Theatre has grown from a fledgling company to Ann Arbor's only resident, professional theatre. The Network reaches 40,000 theatre patrons and children each year through the year-round Professional Series and The Children's Theatre Network. Performance Network also presents the Fireside Festival of New Works and a series of classes on theatre-related topics. The Network provides uncompromising artistic leadership in the region and produces works that engage, challenge and inspire audiences and artists.

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