THE PIANO LESSON Review

Review by Katrina “Kat” Reynolds

Lester Purry as Wining Boy & James T. Alfred as Boy Willie.

THE PIANO LESSON presented by Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park through May 3rd. I attended the opening night performance. 

This spring Moe and Jack Rouse, Randolph Wadsworth, and your Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park are celebrating the words of August Wilson with a production of his play The Piano Lesson. This co-production with the Milwaukee Repertory Theater takes us to the time of the Great Depression and tells the story of a dispute between two siblings over a family heirloom – and garnered Mr. Wilson his second Pulitzer Prize for Drama.

Director Lou Bellamy does an excellent job keeping up the momentum of this lengthy drama. Scenes do not fall stagnant and pacing is solid. Set Design by Vicki Smith is rich and layered; however, stage left could have benefitted from some extra touches (a runner on the household steps or a rug on the inside of the door). But make no mistake: the set is easy for the actors to navigate and complements Mr. Bellamy’s vision. Costumes designed by Mathew J. LeFebvre are bold, colourful, and a fine contrast against the home’s modest décor.

The group of artists chosen to perform Mr. Wilson’s timeless text is an embarrassment of riches. James Craven is exceptional as Doaker Charles, the uncle trying to referee the disagreements between his niece and nephew. Mr. Craven brings a deep understanding to his role and gives us a masterclass on how to convey the complicated emotions of being human with ease. Nubia Monks plays Berniece, Doaker’s niece who lives with him along with her young daughter. Berniece is a single woman of colour in the 1930s who is raising a daughter, working ungodly hours, and trying to figure out how to take care of her own peace in the little time she has left to even consider it. Ms. Monks’ talents are boundless and her portrayal of the strong yet sensitive heroine will leave you speechless. (Plus I need her to sing to me daily.)

Special shoutout to La’Tevin Alexander in the role of Lymon. Mr. Alexander is delightfully likable as the genuine, rough-around-the-edges family friend who finds himself caught up in the disagreement in ways he could not have envisioned. He brings an expert physicality to his role along with a special something which can make one blush and want to embrace Lymon, flaws and all.

This is a difficult call to make, but I do believe The Piano Lesson is my favourite August Wilson play I have seen to date. Most people can relate to the heightened emotions which tend to accompany items considered family heirlooms – especially if not everyone is on the same page about them. Ghosts from our past can be friendly or can haunt us mercilessly and it is up to us to figure out how to live with them in harmony. Suffice it to say, I believe this might be one of those times where the ending we witness on stage gives the audience exactly what is needed.

Click here for more information about the production.