Review: AUGUST WILSON'S FENCES at Chesapeake Shakespeare Company

Powerful production of the Pulitzer Prize-winning play explores dreams deferred in 1950s Pittsburgh

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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FENCES, August Wilson's Pulitzer Prize-winning play, is now playing at the Chesapeake Shakespeare Company in Baltimore. The production features impressive casting that brings the story of the Maxson family and their struggles with unfulfilled dreams to life. Directed by Regional L. Douglas, the play explores themes of the American dream, racism, and the complexities of family relationships.

Why it matters

FENCES is a seminal work in American theater that delves into the challenges faced by Black Americans in the 1950s, particularly around pursuing their dreams and aspirations. The Chesapeake Shakespeare Company's production provides a powerful and captivating interpretation of this classic play, offering audiences a thought-provoking exploration of the barriers and societal issues that can prevent the realization of the American dream.

The details

The play centers around Troy Maxson, a former Negro League baseball player whose dreams of playing in the Major Leagues were dashed due to the color of his skin. Now working as a garbage truck driver, Troy struggles to find joy and fulfillment, which strains his relationships with his wife Rose and his sons Lyons and Cory. The production features standout performances, particularly from DeJeanette Horne as Troy and Lolita Marie as Rose, whose complex and nuanced portrayals of the couple's relationship captivate the audience.

  • FENCES is currently playing at the Chesapeake Shakespeare Company in Baltimore.
  • The production will run through March 8, 2026.

The players

August Wilson

The acclaimed American playwright who wrote FENCES, a Pulitzer Prize-winning play that explores the African American experience in the 20th century.

Regional L. Douglas

The director of the Chesapeake Shakespeare Company's production of FENCES.

DeJeanette Horne

The actor who portrays the lead role of Troy Maxson in the Chesapeake Shakespeare Company's production of FENCES.

Lolita Marie

The actor who portrays the role of Rose, Troy Maxson's wife, in the Chesapeake Shakespeare Company's production of FENCES.

Chesapeake Shakespeare Company

The Baltimore-based theater company presenting the production of FENCES.

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What’s next

The production of FENCES at the Chesapeake Shakespeare Company will run through March 8, 2026. Audiences are encouraged to purchase tickets soon, as the best availability is during the final week of the run.

The takeaway

FENCES is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the barriers and societal issues that can prevent the realization of the American dream, particularly for Black Americans in the 1950s. The Chesapeake Shakespeare Company's production offers a captivating and emotionally resonant interpretation of this classic play, showcasing the impressive talents of its cast and the enduring relevance of August Wilson's work.