‘Some people build fences to keep people out, and other people build fences to keep people in.’

Troy Maxson has cheated death once, but the past keeps closing in. On Pittsburgh’s streets, he cracks jokes and spins stories, yet at home, the pressure is building.

His wife, Rose holds the family together. She sees a changing world and hopes their son Cory might step into it with more freedom than Troy ever had. But when dreams collide, and tempers flare, the Maxson’s edge towards a reckoning that could reshape everything they know.

August Wilson’s landmark play, set in the 1950s, returns in a vital new production directed by the award-winning Daniel Bailey (Red Pitch, West End). From one of America’s most influential 20th century writers, this is a story of ambition for our time.

This production is generously supported by Charles Holloway OBE.

The Lyric’s 2026 Season is supported by Mark & Sarah Crosbie.