Film Screening: Fences

Attend a screening of the acclaimed 2016 film starring Denzel Washington (Oscar nominee for this role) and Viola Davis (Oscar winner for this role). Set in 1950s Pittsburgh, the film adaptation of August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play takes a passionate look at former baseball player Troy Maxson (Denzel Washington) as he fights to provide for those he loves in a world that threatens to push him down. Denzel Washington also directed the film.

Considered “theater’s poet of Black America”, Wilson is best known for his 10- play Century Cycle chronicling the experiences and heritage of the African-American community in the 20th century.

Presented as part of a long-term residency leading up to the Middlebury Performing Arts Series’ presentation of August Wilson’s Two Trains Running, performed by The Acting Company on February 13, 2025. Students in Tara Affolter’s class “Make Room: Teaching August Wilson” will introduce the screening with short remarks about the playwright’s significance and legacy, and will also lead a Q&A afterward.

Associated event: screening of Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom on Wednesday, 10/9/24, also at 7:00 PM at Dana.

Free and open to the public. 139 minutes.