By Vince Robinson
COLUMBUS, Ohio — August Wilson’s Seven Guitars recently concluded its run at Ohio State University’s Department of Theatre, Film, and Media Arts, masterfully directed by Terrence Spivey. This production brought to life Wilson’s profound insights on Black life in America, blending themes of love, struggle, triumph, and tragedy. Seven Guitars, part of Wilson’s ten-play American Century Cycle, captures a poignant snapshot of mid-century Black life and was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize.
Set in Pittsburgh’s Hill District in 1948, the story unfolds as a flashback, recounting the events leading up to the tragic death of Floyd “Schoolboy” Barton (played by Jalen Carr), an ambitious blues guitarist on the cusp of fame. Floyd’s opportunity for a record deal is thwarted, his dream ending abruptly before he can make it back to Chicago to sign his contract.
A Cast of Complex Characters
Floyd’s relationships add layers to the narrative, particularly with his love interest, Vera (Ona Garrett), who wrestles with his invitation to join him on his journey to Chicago. Meanwhile, Floyd’s musical partner, Canewell (Aly Diallo), hints that he could be a better match for Vera. Her friend Louise (Maylon Johnson) openly distrusts Floyd, and Louise’s niece, Ruby (Braleena Pickens), arrives from the South with a shadowed past involving a love triangle and homicide.
Louise’s complicated relationship with Hedley (Othman Shuri), a Caribbean immigrant with tuberculosis, brings depth to the storyline. Hedley dreams of owning a plantation and fathering a son with Ruby, unaware that she is already pregnant by another man.
The final member of the ensemble, Red Carter (Amir Stokes), adds a charismatic spark, embodying a flashy drummer and loyal friend to Floyd. Together, these characters create a symphonic tale, with moments of tenderness, tension, and suspense that pulse against Scenic Designer Megan Wells’ richly crafted set.
Standout Performances Bring Complexity to Life
Shuri’s portrayal of Hedley was a standout, capturing the nuances of a man tormented by illness, disability, and mental strain. His authentic Caribbean accent and physical portrayal added layers to the character, demanding the audience’s attention. Jalen Carr embodied Floyd’s slick confidence, portraying a man both flawed and relatable, while Ona Garrett’s performance as Vera convincingly balanced her character’s yearning and reluctance.
Spivey, a native Texan, graduate of Prairie View A&M University (HBCU), and former artistic director at Karamu House, navigated the cast through the intricate twists of Wilson’s storytelling.
Themes of police brutality, the celebration of Black athleticism, and the complexities of relationships were interwoven into the narrative, leading to a powerful, bittersweet ending. In the final moments, the story serves as a reflection on resilience—acknowledging the micro and macro aggressions that shape Black experiences in America, while affirming that, despite hardship, life endures.
Community Impact
Spivey’s production of Seven Guitars resonates with audiences by shedding light on the universal themes within Black communities, such as love, loss, and resilience. It serves as a reminder of the importance of amplifying Black voices in theatre, particularly through Wilson’s work, which continues to educate and empower both new generations and seasoned viewers
