Playwright
Who was August Wilson?
August Wilson was an American playwright known for writing Fences and the Pittsburgh Cycle, a series of ten plays about African American life in the 20th century.
The play is primarily set in this location, emphasizing themes of home, responsibility, and confinement.
What is the Maxson family's backyard?
Why does Troy refuse to let Cory play football?
Troy thinks Cory will face the same racial discrimination he did in baseball.
What inspired August Wilson to write plays?
He was inspired by African American history, his experiences growing up in Pittsburgh, and the storytelling traditions of Black culture.
Why is the fence an important part of the set design?
The fence symbolizes both emotional and physical barriers—Troy pushes people away, while Rose wants to keep the family together.
Why is Troy angry about his past in baseball?
He feels he was denied a fair chance due to racism, even though he was a talented player.
Why is Fences one of August Wilson’s most famous plays?
Fences explores themes of race, family, and dreams, and won both a Pulitzer Prize and a Tony Award.
How do costumes help show the time period in Fences?
The characters wear 1950s-style working-class clothing, like Troy’s work uniform and Rose’s simple dresses, to reflect their social and economic status.
What is the conflict between Troy and Cory?
Cory wants independence and to pursue football, but Troy is strict and controlling, leading to tension and a broken relationship.
How did August Wilson impact American theater?
He brought authentic Black voices and experiences to the stage, challenging racial stereotypes and influencing future generations of playwrights.
This object, carried by Gabriel, represents his spiritual beliefs and connection to Saint Peter.
What is the trumpet?
How does Gabriel, Troy’s brother, add meaning to the story?
Gabriel, who is mentally impaired from a war injury, represents innocence and spirituality, and his actions at the end symbolize Troy’s final judgment.
What is the Pittsburgh Cycle?
It’s a series of ten plays, each set in a different decade, that explores the struggles and triumphs of Black Americans.
This design element helps reflect the passage of time, as seasons change throughout the play.
What is Lighting?
What does the fence in the play symbolize?
he fence represents both separation and protection—Troy keeps people at a distance, while Rose wants to keep her family together.