Review: FENCES at Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe
Tickets are still available for Matinee and Evening shows, through February 23rd.
August Wilson penned his Pulitzer Prize-winning play in 1983. Set in 1950s Pittsburgh, it delves into the African-American experience, generational prejudices, and other challenging themes. By concentrating on the journey of one family, the play portrays a spectrum of difficult times that individuals may look back on in their later years, while also acknowledging the fleeting moments of joy that can shine through even the toughest circumstances.
The play, "Fences," was initially created at the Eugene O'Neill Theater and made its debut at the Yale Repertory Theatre in the year 1985. It offers a poignant portrayal of Troy, a character filled with bitterness as he reminisces about his youth and transfers his own shortcomings onto his children. As the narrative unfolds, we delve into Troy's past and gain insight into the reasons behind his embittered demeanor and guarded heart. Renowned actors James Earl Jones and Denzel Washington have both masterfully brought Troy's complex story to life on stage, capturing the essence of his character with remarkable depth and skill.
Patric Robinson brings his immense talent and undeniable presence to the stage, embodying his character with power and conviction. Portraying the wounded bully and captivating the audience with his boisterous voice, Robinson consistently delivers a performance that leaves a lasting impact. His ability to evoke emotions and draw the audience into the story is truly remarkable, showcasing his dedication to his craft and deep understanding of his characters. Robinson's performance is a testament to his skill and passion for storytelling, resonating with all who have the pleasure of witnessing his work.
Troy, with his ceaseless complaints, contrasts starkly with his wife Rose. While Troy airs his grievances endlessly, Rose tirelessly labors away with household chores, hardly ever taking a moment to rest. She sweeps, cooks, mends socks, and serves tirelessly. Even as Troy unburdens himself of his woes, Ariel Blue, portraying Rose, emanates warmth and compassion. But when she finally reaches her breaking point with Troy's antics, we can't help but feel a surge of support and admiration for her. Blue effortlessly embodies the role of Rose, depicting her as a nurturing maternal figure, evoking deep sympathy from all of us.
In between acts, a pregnant pause lingers, captivating the audience with its strange and intriguing transition. As time meanders on, the seasons change, drawing us deeper into the lives of the characters. We bear witness to their struggles and hardships, magnified by the oppressive presence of the tyrant leader within the family. However, as the story unfolds, a glimmer of hope emerges, offering a resolution that promises an end to the cycle of pain and suffering.
In a heartfelt manner, at the commencement of the play, Nate Jacobs, the esteemed founder and artistic director of WBTT, warmly introduced the audience to August Wilson's renowned piece, "Fences". He eloquently conveyed that this play is a significant part of Wilson's 10-play cycle and underscored the importance of sharing stories from a bygone era. With profound insight, Jacobs emphasized the power of storytelling in shaping our identities and connecting us to our past. Known for their grand endeavors, the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe embarked on the ambitious task of bringing "Fences" to life on their modest stage, engulfing the entire theater in the vivid narrative. As we absorb the intricate tales woven on stage, we are reminded that life's challenges, though harsh, bestow resilience upon us and future generations—a testament to the enduring struggles of our forebears.
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