The play, “Fences” by August Wilson, is a poignant play that carefully revolves around the life of Troy Maxson, a 53-year-old African American man living in Pittsburgh in the 1950s. It is set entirely in the Maxson household, where Troy lives with his wife Rose and their son Cory. The play is a powerful reminder of the importance of representation, diversity and inclusivity in storytelling.

As a complex character, Troy is struggling to come to terms with his past and present. He’s a former baseball player who never made it to the major leagues due to *racial discrimination.* This experience has left him bitter and cynical, causing him to discourage his son Cory from pursuing a career in football.

As the play unfolds, Troy’s relationships with his family members are revealed. His wife Rose is a kind and empathetic woman who has made sacrifices for their family, but feels unappreciated by Troy. Cory, their son, is a young man trying to find his place in the world but faces opposition from his father. Troy’s brother Gabriel, who has a brain injury which he sustained from WWII as a soldier, adds a touch of humor and tragedy to the story.

Throughout the play, the themes of *Racial Discrimination*, *Family Dynamics*, and *Personal Identity* are explored. All of which are still relevant today. Troy’s experiences with racism have shaped his worldview, and his refusal to acknowledge the progressive changes made over the years since his baseball career causes tension within his family.

The title, “Fences,” is symbolic of the physical and emotional barriers that exist within the Maxson household. The fence that Troy builds around their home serves as a metaphor for the emotional walls he has constructed around himself and his family.

Ultimately, “Fences” is a powerful exploration of the human experience, delving into the complexities of family relationships, personal identity, and the ongoing struggle for racial equality. It is a masterpiece that resonates with audiences today.

This playreading exercise was a reading dramatization of the events by the actors using their scripts on stage. This was done as part of the 2025 Black History Month series of events. And the members of the AFCAS who partook in the exercise were:

Elly Powell – As Troy Maxson

Donya Smith-Powell – As Rose Maxson

Ekpeno Ukut – As Bono

Daniel Powell – As Cory Maxson

Nicholas Atuheire – As Gabriel Maxson

Allan Katushabe – As Lyon Maxson

Thank you, Theatre Northwest for creating the opportunity for AFCAS to join your monthly playreading session.