Finding Humanity in August Wilson’s Fences: A Conversation

April 8, 2026

A new production of August Wilson's acclaimed play "Fences" is opening at San Diego's Old Globe Theatre, featuring actors Dorian Missick and De'Adre Aziza under the direction of Delicia Turner Sonnenberg. The production explores the story of Troy Maxson, a former Negro League baseball player, and his wife Rose as they navigate family relationships and personal struggles in their working-class community. Both actors draw deeply from their personal experiences and family histories to portray these complex characters, with Missick identifying as a "Wilsonian actor" and Aziza connecting the role to strong women in her own family.

Who is affected

Dorian Missick (actor playing Troy Maxson)
De'Adre Aziza (actor playing Rose)
Delicia Turner Sonnenberg (director)
The cast of Fences at Old Globe Theatre
Audiences attending the production
The Black community whose stories and experiences are represented in Wilson's work

What action is being taken

The production of Fences is running at San Diego's Old Globe Theatre from April 4 through May 3
Delicia Turner Sonnenberg is directing a fresh interpretation of the play
Dorian Missick and De'Adre Aziza are performing as the lead characters

Why it matters

This production matters because it brings August Wilson's Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning masterpiece to life with authentic representation of Black family life and culture. The play remains relevant nearly forty years after its debut by portraying ordinary Black people living ordinary lives in ways that audiences can recognize and connect with personally. Wilson's work celebrates Black joy, cultural resilience, and the fullness of Black experience while telling universal stories about flawed human beings doing their best, allowing people from all backgrounds to see themselves reflected on stage.

What's next

The production runs through May 3, 2025, with tickets available at www.theoldglobe.org.

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint