August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning drama The Piano Lesson is on stage at Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park through May 3, 2026, in a co-production with Milwaukee Repertory Theater directed by Lou Bellamy.

Set during the Great Depression, the play centers on siblings Berniece and Boy Willie as they dispute the fate of a family heirloom piano carved by an enslaved ancestor. Berniece, played by Nubia Monks, regards the instrument as an irreplaceable link to family history; her brother Boy Willie, played by James T. Alfred, sees it as collateral for purchasing land in the South. The supporting cast includes James Craven as Doaker Charles, Lester Purry as Wining Boy, and Anthony Irons as Avery. The production runs approximately three hours and eight minutes with a 20-minute intermission.

Performances take place at Moe and Jack’s Place—The Rouse Theatre, 962 Mt. Auburn Road, Cincinnati. The run includes several special events: Art Talks on April 19, 23, and 29; an audio-described performance on May 2; and an ASL-signed performance on May 3. Tickets and additional information are available at cincyplay.com or by calling 513-421-3888.

Source: BroadwayWorld / Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park