Troy Maxson was a star in the Negro Baseball League, but he was past his prime by the time Jackie Robinson broke the color line in 1947. Now in 1950’s Pittsburgh, Troy hauls garbage to provide for his family. When his son Cory wants to play football, Troy worries the same barriers he faced will crush Cory's dreams, and he'll crush them first before anyone else does. But Troy's own mistakes and regrets may be as big a threat to his family's security as the racism that limited his opportunities. As the past closes in, Troy finds the walls he's built for protection crumbling. For the first time in its history, National Players takes August Wilson's most acclaimed drama in his Century Cycle Plays to the stage.

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Celebrating its 73rd season, National Players is a unique ensemble bringing innovative theater to communities large and small across the United States. Founded in 1949, National Players stimulates youthful imagination and critical thinking by presenting classic plays in invigorating ways for modern audiences.

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National Players is the hallmark outreach program of Olney Theatre Center, a Helen Hayes Award-winning theatre in suburban Washington, DC. A model for artistic collaboration and national education outreach, National Players embodies the Olney Theatre Center educational pedagogy: to unleash the creative potential in our audiences and artists and to stimulate individual empowerment. National Players exemplifies these goals by presenting self-sustained productions of Shakespeare and other classics to learners of all ages and in all environments. Through performances and integrated educational programs, National Players empowers these learners to build stronger communities through artistic collaboration.

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Tickets are $15 for adults. All children and students are free to attend. Pro-Art season tickets will be honored for this performance.

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Pro-Art partners with a variety of venues, therefore individuals with mobility issues are encouraged to call 276-376-4520 or email the Pro-Art office at pro-art@uvawise.edu to make arrangements for parking. For evolving conditions related to the global pandemic, inclement weather, or similar unforeseen circumstances, patrons are encouraged to check proartva.org for up-to-date information.