FENCES Comes to Long Beach Playhouse This Spring

On May 20, the Long Beach Playhouse presents August Wilson's Fences, a play that examines the effects of one man's regrets and resentment on his family. It is part of Wilson's ten-part "Pittsburgh Cycle" which observes the African American experience across several decades.

"Fences was chosen for the strength of the story. The script is so strong, it's a wonderful opportunity for our actors and directors." said Playhouse Executive Director, Madison Mooney. "Critics and audiences at the time of its release agreed as well; Fences won the Tony for best play and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1987. Along with the best play nomination Fences was nominated for 10 categories that year which was a record at the time. And now the movie adaptation is an Oscar winner!"

The story revolves around the extended Maxson family including Troy, Rose and their son Cory. Troy works on a garbage truck to support his family. His dreams of professional baseball are just that, dreams destroyed by poor decisions and prejudice. At 53 he is consumed by his regrets and mistakes. So much so that he can't even see what he's doing to those around him.

"I'm very pleased with the caliber of our cast and director" said Artistic Director, Sean Gray. "Carl daSilva is a wonderful director. He is masterful at turning beautiful prose into memorable scenes on our stage. And all of the actors come to this effort with incredible training and experience."

Of the seven actors only one is making a return appearance, Rayshawn Chism, whom audiences may remember for his portrayal of Bobo in A Raisin in the Sun last season. Making their debuts are: Damon Rutledge, Teri Gamble, Jermaine Alexander, Darnell Trujeque, Brandon Rachal and Katie Grace McClung.
The show opens May 20 and runs through June 17. SPECIAL EVENTS FOR THIS PLAY:

• Pay what you can Thursday May 18 - community can see this production for whatever they can afford
• Two for One Preview Friday May 19 - Tickets are $10.00
• Opening Night Champagne Reception with cast on May 20 - Tickets are $27.00

Ticket Pricing:
Friday: Adults are $20.00, Seniors $18.00, and Students $14.00Saturday and Sunday: Adults are $24.00, Seniors $21.00, and Students $14.00.

Tickets are available at www.lbplayhouse.org, or by calling 562-494-1014, option 1.
To request an interview with the director, cast members or reserve your media tickets to this performance, please send an email to: pr@lbplayhouse.org.
Long Beach Playhouse is located at 5021 E. Anaheim St., Long Beach, CA, 90804, right across from the Long Beach Recreation golf course. The Playhouse is community-supported theatre with programs and events that cut across age, gender, ethnic, and cultural boundaries.

Performances are 8 p.m. Friday, and Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. The box office is open Wednesday-Saturday from 3:00-8:00 pm and Sundays from 1:00-2:00 pm on scheduled matinees.

Promotional Design: Daisy Ramirez Back: Darnell Trujeque and Rayshawn Chism
Front: Teri Gamble, Katie Grace McClung, Damon Rutledge, Jermaine Alexander, Brandon Rachal

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