Experience the profound and passionate world of August Wilson's "King Hedley II" at A Noise Within, Pasadena's premier classical theatre company. This compelling production, directed by the acclaimed Gregg T. Daniel, runs from March 31 to April 28, 2024, at 3352 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91107.

"King Hedley II" delves into the tragic realities faced by Black men in 1980s Reagan-era Pittsburgh. After a seven-year prison sentence, King Hedley strives to rebuild his life through the ambitious dream of owning a video store, a journey marked by self-delusion and the harsh truths of his environment. This narrative continues the stories of characters first introduced in Wilson's "Seven Guitars," offering a rich, interconnected saga of life, struggle, and hope.

The production highlights the ongoing partnership between Director Gregg T. Daniel and A Noise Within, further exploring Wilson's American Century Cycle. It's an opportunity to witness the most passionate work of one of America's most astonishing playwrights, as praised by Variety for its unflinching examination of the human condition.

Special performances include "Pay What You Choose" nights on April 3 and 4, 2024, allowing attendees to purchase tickets at a price they can afford, and a "Sensory Friendly" performance on April 4, 2024, tailored for audiences with sensory processing differences. The "Opening Night" on April 6, 2024, invites guests to a free post-show cast party, and "Black Out Night" on April 11, 2024, creates a unique environment for Black-identifying audiences to experience the performance in community, followed by a reception.

Join the conversation and deepen your understanding of the play by participating in the INsiders discussion group on August Wilson, scheduled for April 7th, 2024, from 12:30-1:30 pm.

Don't miss this powerful production that promises not only to entertain but to provoke thought and dialogue about the complexities of the human spirit and societal challenges. Secure your tickets now and be part of a season that celebrates the balance of classic theatre and modern relevance at A Noise Within.

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King Hedley II

A Noise Within Theatre

You may be the wealthiest colored woman in New Orleans, but you built this house on sand, lies and dead bodies. New Orleans, 1836. Following an era of French colonial rule and relative racial acceptance, Louisiana's 'free people of color' are prospering. Beatrice, a free woman of colour, has become one of the city's wealthiest women through her relationship with a rich white man. However, when her lover mysteriously dies, Beatrice imposes a six-month period of mourning on herself and her three daughters. But, as the summer heat intensifies, the foundations of freedom she has built for herself and their three unwed daughters begin to crumble. Society is changing, racial divides are growing and, as the members of the household turn on each other in their fight for survival, it could cost them everything.

Kiziana Jean-Louis

Events

Past events

Mar 31 - Apr 28, 2024

King Hedley II · A Noise Within

8 - 13 Jun, 2023

The House That Will Not Stand · London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art

Future and recently performed repertoire

Understudy Tonya in King Hedley II by Wilson

A Noise Within

About

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