'Fences' - Theatre Visit

During the penultimate week before half-term, some other Drama students and I went to see ‘Fences’, written by August Wilson, as part of the Drama A-level Live theatre experience. The play itself combined themes of post-war identity, patriarchy, and the racial discrimination prevalent in 1950s America. 

In Miller fashion, the relationship between the father and son was a particular thematic highlight. Daniel Bailey (the play’s director) utilised rhythmic drumming as part of Troy’s ‘strike-out’ metaphor to create a tangibility to the rising tension between the two. While the play certainly had flaws, this was not one of them. Curtains drawn, and Act One finished, I rose from my seat. 

Overall, the response of the audience so far seemed positive. Arguably the best part of the experience was the intense discussion it drew from my peers and I. There was a very apparent contrast between those who loved the play, those who missed McPherson’s ‘The Weir’, and I, who couldn’t stop bringing up ‘All My Sons’.

Act Two began, and the true sorrow of the play was unveiled. We were told about Troy’s abusive father and, in turn, recognised the cycle of mistrust and cruelty that would be perpetuated on and on into the future. Troy feels trapped, just like his father. I will not spoil the play, in case you the reader are tempted by this review, however I would like to give you a quote, one printed emphatically on the back of the program; “You born with two strikes on you before you come to the plate…If you going down…you going down swinging”. The mentality of Troy and his fear of Cory playing sports makes his hamartia ever-apparent to the audience. It is a frustration he has with himself, with a life that does not measure up to his pride, and an unchanging attitude to the developing world. The curtains fell for the last time.

The play was definitely enjoyed by all, and the following conversations in class overflowed. Discussions about set choices, underlying themes and actors' performances all followed, along with attempts to decipher the ending. The trip was a success. A combination of curious audience responses, second-night jitters, and ‘IKEA’ wood meant the current rendition of 'Fences' is certainly not a perfect one, but the experience of watching it is one I’ll never forget.

Writing: Kit (Year 13)

Edited: Daniel (Year 12)