TheatreWorks Silicon Valley's production of August Wilson’s Gem of the Ocean begins performances at the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts April 6. It runs until May 1 with opening night slated for April 9.
Directed by Artistic Director Tim Bond, the production marks his directorial debut with the company. He considers the late playwright to be a "dear friend" of his and is inspired by the work's relativity to current times.
The Tony Award-nominated play takes place in 1904 and follows a young Black man on his journey for spiritual guidance. Along the way, he learns about his ancestors' history through a 285-year-old former slave, Aunt Ester. The California-based production features Greta Oglesby as Aunt Ester, Edward Ewell as Citizen Barlow, Porscha Shaw as Black Mary, Kim Sullivan as Solly Two Kings, Jerome Preston Bates as Eli, Rodney Hicks as Caesar, and Dan Hiatt as Rutherford Selig.
The creative team comprises William Bloodgood as scenic designer, Lydia Tanji as costumer designer, Lonnie Rafael Alcarez as lighting designer, Michael Keck as sound designer, Cherelle Guyton as hair, wig, and makeup designer, and Taylor McQuesten as stage manager.
For more information, visit TheatreWorks.org.
