HOUSTON — The idea of celebrating African American history was based on the fact that many stories in the community were not being told.
That's one reason why George W. Hawkins created the Ensemble Theatre in Houston. It celebrates the culture and experiences of African Americans through the arts and on stage.
Taking the main stage this month is August Wilson's, "The Piano Lesson." The production runs from January 26 to February 25.
"The Piano Lesson" features celebrity artist and Houstonian Jason Dirden, playing the role of "Boy Willie". You may recognize him from his television roles in "Greenleaf" on the Oprah Winfrey Network and "American Soul" on BET.
Dirden stopped by along with the Director and main backbone for the Ensemble Theatre Eileen J. Morris.
About the Piano Lesson
It is 1936, and Boy Willie arrives in Pittsburgh from the South in a battered truck loaded with watermelons to sell. He has an opportunity to buy some land down home, but he has to come up with the money right quick. He wants to sell an old piano that has been in his family for generations, but he shares ownership with his sister and it sits in her living room. She has already rejected several offers because the antique piano is covered with incredible carvings detailing the family's rise from slavery. Boy Willie tries to persuade his stubborn sister that the past is past, but she is more formidable than he anticipated.
Runs: January 26 - February 25, 2024
PG-13 DRAMA
Written by: August Wilson
Directed by: Eileen Morris
For more information about "The Piano Lesson" or tickets, visit their website.