Notable historical events during play release
What notable world event was happening worldwide in 1985?
The cold war
When did August Wilson die?
October 2nd, 2005
What role did regional theaters play in 1985?
When Broadway switched things up, regional theaters filled the void.
Who wrote the oldest known review?
Nancy Churnin
Who wrote the latest review of Fences?
Aliya Al-Hassan
Which crisis was theater addressing at the time?
AIDS
Why did August Wilson quit school?
He was accused of plagiarism.
Despite Broadway abandoning dramas, what impact did fences have?
Despite commercial and cultural setbacks, it was a cultural monument.
In a 1990 review, what is one critique about Cory Maxson's character that is highlighted about the play?
Cory seems too strong and intelligent which dulled the conflict a little bit.
What does the 2026 review of Fences focus heavily on?
The chemistry & expressions of the actors within the play.
Which famous theater opened in Harlem, New York in 1985?
The apollo theater
Where did August Wilson grow up?
Pittsburg's hill district
What common problems were plays having at the time?
A lot of plays were panned for creative changes and differences.
In a 1990 review, what forms of truth does it highlight that Fences is trying to convey?
Emotional & historical truths
What is noted about the character Gabriel in the 2026 review?
He had a dreamlike & innocent worldview based on religion, brought about from his war injury.
Which famous performance singer gave her farewell performance in 1985?
Leontyne Price
What was August Wilson's birth name?
Fredrick August Ittel
What impact did the reopening of the apollo theater have?
It enabled the growth of African American representation.
In a 1994 review by Leslie Sanders, what was the essays about Fences titled?
May All Your Fences Have Gates
What can be considered one tragedy of the Maxson family in Fences noted in a 2026 review?
Past & present trauma of violence surrounding their racial & social standing.
Name one notable play that was released in 1985
Singing in the rain
Which art center opened in Pittsburg in 2009 in August Wilson's honor?
The August Wilson Center for African American culture.
Which notable performer performed a 1 person play that won 2 awards?
Lily Tomlin
What was August Wilson's statement that was highlighted in a 1994 review?
I Want A Black Director
Based on what is noted down in the latest review of Fences, what theme can be noted in the play?
The sins of the father can be passed down to the son.