Theater & Cultural Experience at The Actors' Group
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
No physical fitness required, just a love for theater and storytelling.
Overview
Experience the powerful storytelling of August Wilson's The Piano Lesson at The Actors' Group in Pittsburgh. Dive into a play that explores family, history, and redemption—an essential cultural outing.
AUGUST WILSON's The Piano Lesson
2 hours
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Set in 1936 Pittsburgh, this powerful play explores family conflict and legacy as Boy Willie seeks to sell a cherished family piano, while his sister Berniece clings to its ancestral significance. With a haunting ghost and themes of redemption, their struggle reveals deep-rooted histories and the quest for reconciliation.
About
directed by Shervelle Hannah The time is Pittsburgh, 1936, the aftermath of the Great Depression. In this haunting, luminous play, Boy Willie arrives from the South at the home of his Uncle Doaker and sister Berniece, intent on selling the family piano. Berniece, embittered by her husband's death which she blames on her brother, refuses to sell it. The piano is an heirloom, treasured by Berniece for it is carved with the faces of their ancestors. Boy Willie sees his share of its sale as a way out of sharecropping to ownership of the farm his enslaved family worked for generations. But a ghost inhabits the house and history must be redeemed before the sister and brother can reconcile and find a measure of peace. 1990 Pulitzer Prize for Drama 1990 New York Drama Critics' Circle Award for Best Play
Adventure Tips
Arrive early for good seats
Secure your spot early to get the best viewing experience at The Actors' Group.
Check the schedule in advance
Performance dates vary, so verify showtimes before planning your visit.
Engage with local artists
Arrive early or stay after to meet cast members and learn about the production.
Consider nearby dining options
Pittsburgh offers a variety of food spots to enjoy before or after the show.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Birds common to urban parks
- Squirrels in the surrounding neighborhood
History
Pittsburgh has a rich industrial history that heavily influences its cultural scene and arts community, including this theater.
Conservation
The theater is committed to sustainability by reducing waste and promoting eco-friendly practices in programming and operations.
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Adventure Hotspots in Pittsburgh
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable attire
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for an indoor theater setting.
Notebook and pen
Useful for jotting down impressions or questions about the play.
Quiet shoes
Keep noise to a minimum while entering or leaving the theater.
Cash or card for concessions
Enjoy a snack or drink during intermission.