The Piano Lesson is set in Pittsburgh's Hill District in 1936. A brother and sister are locked in a war over the fate of a family heirloom: a piano carved with the faces of their ancestors. Only by revisiting history can the siblings endeavor to move forward. Directed by LaTanya Richardson Jackson, The Piano Lesson is a part of August Wilson's American Century Cycle, which chronicles the Black experience throughout the 20th Century over the course of ten plays.
Shirine Babb, who has an extensive background in both Broadway and regional theater, including acclaimed performances in "Timon of Athens" and "Antony and Cleopatra," was a notable member of the cast in "The Piano Lesson." more...
Danielle Brooks, known for her acclaimed role as Tasha "Taystee" Jefferson in "Orange is the New Black," brought her exceptional talent to the stage in The Piano Lesson, showcasing her versatility and depth as an actress in this celebrated production. more...
Charles Browning, who has appeared on Broadway in "How I Learned To Drive" and Off-Broadway in "In The Southern Breeze" at Rattlestick, brought his extensive experience to the cast of "The Piano Lesson," showcasing his talent honed through performances at prestigious venues like the Goodman and Chicago Shakespeare theaters. more...
Trai Byers, known for his role as Andre Lyon on FOX's 'Empire' and his portrayal of James Foreman in 'Selma', made his Broadway debut in 'The Piano Lesson'. more...
Nadia Daniel made her Broadway debut at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre in August Wilson's "The Piano Lesson," showcasing her talent alongside a remarkable cast and creative team. more...
Peter Jay Fernandez, who has had a distinguished career in theater, television, and film, brought his extensive experience to the cast of "The Piano Lesson," having previously earned acclaim for his performances in other August Wilson plays such as "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom" and "Gem of the Ocean." more...
Ray Fisher, known for his role as 'Cyborg' in the DC Cinematic Universe, brought his seasoned theater experience to the stage in a past production of "The Piano Lesson." more...
Samuel L. Jackson, who originated roles in August Wilson’s "The Piano Lesson" and "Two Trains Running" at the Yale Repertory Theatre, is one of Hollywood's most respected actors with a career spanning over 100 films. more...
Sharina Martin, known for her extensive Off-Broadway and regional theatre work, brought her talent to the cast of *The Piano Lesson*, adding to her impressive resume that includes a Connecticut Critics Circle Award for Best Featured Actress in *Doubt* and a BTA Award nomination for Best Actress. more...
April Matthis, an Obie Award-winning actor, graced the Broadway stage in the acclaimed production of "The Piano Lesson." more...
Warner Miller, known for his roles in the Tony Award-winning revival of Charles Fuller’s “A Soldier’s Play” and popular TV series like Netflix's "Manifest" and HBO's "Boardwalk Empire," brings his extensive stage and screen experience to the cast of "The Piano Lesson." more...
Doron JePaul Mitchell, known for his versatile talents as both an actor and writer, has previously showcased his skills in productions such as The Piano Lesson. more...
Michael Potts, known for his critically acclaimed role as "Slow Drag" in Netflix's adaptation of August Wilson's "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom," also received praise for his portrayal of "Turnbo" in the Tony Award-winning production of Wilson's "Jitney" in 2017. more...
Kim Sullivan, who has performed in all ten of August Wilson's plays, marks his fifth production of "The Piano Lesson," having previously portrayed Avery, Doaker, and Wining Boy twice each. more...
Jurnee Swan, a native New Yorker who discovered her passion for acting at an after-school theatre camp, has graced many stages in NYC, with memorable roles in productions like Cinderella, Peter Pan, and Aladdin, and has also appeared on "The Daily Show with Trevor Noah." more...
John David Washington, who starred in the critically acclaimed film Blackkklansman and received multiple award nominations for his role, was a notable member of the cast in The Piano Lesson. more...
Awards and Nominations
2023 Tony Awards
Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Play: Samuel L. Jackson was nominated but did not win.
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