Fences – Lyric Hammersmith

Fences by August Wilson “is a powerful family drama about racism, lost dreams, fatherhood, betrayal and the emotional barriers people build around themselves and the people they love”. This production is directed by Daniel Bailey and with Ray Fearon playing Troy Maxson and Madeline Appiah playing his wife, Rose. The time is the 1950’s America when Black working class families were trying to survive racial discrimination and generational trauma.

The story centres around Troy Maxson, a Black man in his fifties working on the streets of Pennsylvania. What becomes evident early in the play is that Troy is a troubled man scarred by this past, trying to live in the future; but his demons uncover a deep abyss of loneliness. His actions towards his relationships with his wife Rose and his children and his brother uncover a dark side to Troy that emulates a man trapped by guilt, responsibility and duty disguised as love.              

The Fence in the practical sense needs to be built to provide security but it also has several symbolic significances, barriers in life, confinement, ruling the household behind an impenetrable fortress of control.

August Wilson’s play certainly packs a punch, raw emotion, and a compelling performance by Ray Fearon and Madeline Appiah’s portrayal of Rose; a betrayed wife whose resilience holds no bounds. There are some scenes that shock and others that you look in awe. There is plenty of dialogue although occasionally repetitive as the scenes move in a slow pace, especially in Act 1. This succeeds in building this impactful storyline.

Directed in a style of realism whilst embodying a theatrical experience.  Arnold’s revolving set provides the audience with an opportunity to ‘look in’ and is a clever use of the staging. Light and shade is provided by the jazz music, lighting and the humour. 

This play is longer than the average play and occasionally the story lost momentum. The last 30 minutes arguably could be shortened. There is verbal and physical aggression as this impactful family drama unfolds.

Wilson’s Fences is a respectful, well-acted take on a landmark play. With gravitas of why Fences still matters in raising the questions about the cycle of abusive parenting. Gritty drama with emotional sadness, contrasting with the evocative acting by all the cast; an unforgettable experience.     

Writer: August Wilson

Directed by Daniel Bailey

Set & Costume Designer: Lily Arnold 

This play commences at 7.10pm 3hours 20-minute Interval 

Running 6th – 31st October 2026 

Booking Link https://wwwlondonboxoffice.co.uk/fences-tickets

Reviewer: Michelle Knight

Reviewed: 9^th October 2026  

North West End UK Rating