Taraji P. Henson is joining the Broadway revival of August Wilson’s “Joe Turner’s Come and Gone.” The acclaimed actress will make her Broadway acting debut alongside Cedric “The Entertainer” this season. Furthermore, the production will be directed by legendary entertainer Debbie Allen.
Henson will portray Bertha Holly, the compassionate boarding house owner in Wilson’s powerful drama. Cedric “The Entertainer” will play her husband Seth Holly in the 1911 Pittsburgh setting. Moreover, this marks a significant milestone for the “Empire” star’s theatrical career.
The revival represents a major Broadway production featuring prominent Black talent both on stage and behind the scenes. Producer Brian Anthony Moreland returns to Wilson’s work after his successful “Piano Lesson” production. Additionally, Allen’s direction promises to bring fresh vision to Wilson’s celebrated masterpiece.
Debbie Allen Directs Star-Studded Cast in August Wilson Classic Revival
Debbie Allen will helm the production, bringing her Emmy-winning choreography and directing expertise to Broadway. The multi-hyphenate talent has previously worked on Wilson’s plays with celebrated results. Her directing credits include acclaimed television work on shows like “Grey’s Anatomy.”
Allen’s return to Broadway represents an exciting reunion with Wilson’s powerful storytelling. She has built a reputation for bringing dynamic vision and authentic emotion to classic theatrical works. Consequently, her involvement elevates anticipation for this particular revival among theater enthusiasts.
The production benefits from Allen’s deep understanding of African American theatrical traditions and Wilson’s specific artistic vision. Her background in dance and theater adds layers of movement and cultural authenticity to the staging. Therefore, audiences can expect a visually compelling and emotionally resonant interpretation of the classic play.
Joe Turner’s Come and Gone Explores Great Migration Through Pittsburgh Boarding House
“Joe Turner’s Come and Gone” takes place in 1911 at a Pittsburgh boarding house during the Great Migration. The Holly family provides refuge for Black travelers seeking new opportunities in the North. The boarding house serves as a microcosm of the broader African American experience during this transformative period.
The story centers on Herald Loomis, a man searching for his lost wife after seven years of illegal enslavement. His journey represents the broader struggle of formerly enslaved people seeking to rebuild their lives and identities. Additionally, the play examines themes of displacement, hope, and cultural preservation.
Wilson’s masterpiece explores how the Great Migration affected individual families and communities across America. The boarding house setting allows multiple storylines to intersect and illuminate different aspects of the Black experience. Furthermore, the play addresses the psychological and spiritual costs of forced separation and cultural disruption.
Broadway Producer Brian Anthony Moreland Returns to August Wilson’s Legacy
Producer Brian Anthony Moreland expressed deep honor in returning to Wilson’s work for this revival. His previous Wilson production, “The Piano Lesson,” featured Samuel L. Jackson, John David Washington, and Danielle Brooks. That production achieved record-breaking success and critical acclaim on Broadway.
“Joe Turner’s Come and Gone is Wilson’s seminal masterpiece—an unflinching exploration of pain, identity and hope,” Moreland stated. He praised Allen’s visionary direction and the extraordinary cast assembled for the production. Moreover, he emphasized the performance’s potential to resonate deeply with contemporary audiences.
Moreland’s track record includes last season’s “Othello,” featuring Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal. His commitment to producing high-quality theatrical works featuring Black stories and performers continues with this revival. Additionally, his involvement signals the production’s potential for both commercial and critical success.
