HOW I LEARNED WHAT I LEARNED Review

By Katrina “Kat” Reynolds

How I Learned What I Learned presented by Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati through March 10th. I attended the opening Thursday performance. 

“ranney” as Actor. Photo by Ryan Kurtz

So many theatres are keeping the light of Black History Month burning strongly and I am here for it. How I Learned What I Learned, an autobiographical piece written and originally performed by the legendary playwright himself, August Wilson, is Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati’s contribution to this long-ignored time of storytelling, mourning, and celebration.

Co-conceived by Todd Kreidler and directed by local legend Torie Wiggins, How I Learned…is not what one would expect from a one-man autobiographical piece. The lead role is played impeccably by a familiar face to Cincinnati as of late, the one and only “ranney”. With a beautiful canvas on which to “paint” his story by Scenic & Lighting Designer Brian c. Mehring; projections designed by Becca Schall (who always has an exceptional piece of art on display in the ETC lobby!); and the all-too-important punctuations of sound and music by Sound Designer Matt Callahan, “ranney” navigates the space naturally and conversationally. While the audience obviously does more listening than speaking, we still feel included in the 1 hour 45 mins narrative. And it is a ride, my friends.

I will loosely quote the local actor with whom I spoke before the show began: rather than being in the form of lecture, the script is written almost in terms of a series of vignettes which ultimately allow Mr. Wilson to explain how he credits his own success, both personally and professionally. Despite being a one-man show, we are introduced to a shower of characters – including a cameo by acclaimed jazz musician, John William Coltrane. Much like the playwright, “ranney” is a master storyteller and is an excellent choice to take us on the many paths August Wilson travelled in his time on this earth.

Torie Wiggins’ direction is clear and with purpose, two of my favourite things about an artist. She knew exactly how to keep the piece visually stimulating while maintaining a steady and provocative pace. Slower moments have their reasons and do not derail the journey on which we are taken. Repeating myself from an earlier praise said to Ms. Wiggins herself, it is a masterpiece.

As much as I could go on forever about every wonderful part of this production, I implore you to experience it for yourself. You start with a wonderful script about an intriguing and brilliant person and add cast and crew who only enhance this foundation – and you end up with a time at theatre that should not be missed. Wilson’s words wash over you with such ease, so to have these words shared with you in a way that feels very personal by an actor the caliber of “ranney” is a delight and a privilege. I was honoured to have been a guest on this adventure.

Click here for more information on the production.

Support live theatre and listen to black stories not just in February, but year-round.