One of the greatest plays of the twentieth century returns to the stage in a powerful new production of August Wilson’s Fences. Presented by Headlong, Leeds Playhouse, Lyric Hammersmith Theatre and HOME Manchester, this acclaimed drama opens Black History Month with a compelling exploration of family, identity, ambition and the enduring impact of racial inequality in post-war America.
Set in 1950s Pittsburgh, Fences follows Troy Maxson, a former baseball star whose dreams were denied by racial discrimination. Now working as a refuse collector, Troy struggles to reconcile his own disappointments while raising his family in a rapidly changing America. As tensions grow between Troy, his wife Rose and their son Cory, long-held hopes, frustrations and sacrifices collide in a story that remains as relevant today as when it first premiered.
Written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright August Wilson, Fences is widely regarded as one of the defining works of modern American theatre. Part of Wilson’s celebrated Pittsburgh Cycle, the play explores themes of race, family, responsibility, love and generational change with extraordinary depth, humanity and emotional power.
Directed by award-winning theatre-maker Daniel Bailey, this major new production brings together an outstanding creative team to reintroduce one of the world’s greatest stage dramas to contemporary audiences. Rich in humour, heartbreak and unforgettable performances, Fences remains a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate across generations.
Presented at Oxford Playhouse from 30 September to 3 October 2026, Fences offers audiences an exceptional opportunity to experience one of the most important works of Black theatre during Black History Month.
More Oxfordshire Listings MORE
August Wilson’s Fences
One of the greatest plays of the twentieth century returns to the stage in a powerful new production…