August Wilson’s
Seven Guitars

March 7 – April 2, 2023

Directed by Ron OJ Parson

Quadracci Powerhouse

A co-production with Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

Approximate Running Time: 3 hours and 15 minutes including one intermission
Recommended Age: 14 and up
This performance contains profanity and adult themes.

American Century Cycle

What would you do for a chance to live out your dream? In 1940s Pittsburgh, struggling singer Floyd “Schoolboy” Barton’s shot at stardom comes when a major recording studio offers an unexpected opportunity of a lifetime. Armed with newfound hope and a second chance, Floyd and his friends discover that dreams are heartbreakingly fragile when confronted by a world set against them. This riveting Milwaukee Rep’s eighth production in August Wilson’s iconic 10-play American Century Cycle, explores faith, artistry, humor, oppression and love set to the fiery rhythms and intense lyricism of American blues music.

“Rich with exceptionally vivid characters.”
– Variety

Corporate Sponsor

Executive Producers
Croen Foundation • Beverly & Tony Petullo • David & Cheryl Walker

Media Sponsors

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Select a performance to purchase tickets.

Wed, Mar 29

Wed, Mar 29

Thu, Mar 30

Fri, Mar 31

Sat, Apr 01

Sat, Apr 01

Sun, Apr 02

Sun, Apr 02

Special Dates

Pay What You Can
Tuesday, March 7, 7:30pm
Wednesday, March 8, 7:30pm
(Based on availability)

Early Bird Performance
Tuesday, March 14, 6:30pm

Audio Described Performance
Tuesday, March 14, 6:30pm

ASL Performance
Thursday, March 23, 7:30pm

Captioned Performance
Sunday, April 2, 2pm

Bus Matinee Performance
Wednesday, March 22, 1:30pm

TalkBacks

Thursday evenings after the 7:30pm performance
March 16, 23 and 30

Resources

Program

PlayGuide

Teacher Guide

Media Gallery

Photo Gallery

Reviews

"All the actors deliver emotionally rich and physically powerful performances in a story that takes them from boisterous triumph to crushing despair. These actors are also able singers and musicians and bursts of the blues punctuate the story."

BroadwayWorld

"Wilson’s writing is at its zenith, sounding as naturalistic yet eloquent, exuding a majestic beauty, Seven Guitars reminds us of why Wilson is one the most important playwrights of the 20th century."

Shepherd Express

"Realistic Louise, wild Hedley, insistent Barton, envious Canewell, affable Red, uncertain Vera and vampy Ruby are like seven instruments in different tunings. Get ready for the music."

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Cast

Creative Team

* Member of Actors' Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States.

Featured Events

Panel Discussion:
Racial Health and Equity of Treatment

Wednesday, March 8 • Post Performance

Join us in conversation featuring medical and public health professionals from the Greater Milwaukee community.

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Dinner Dialogues Series Announced

What is hubris? How far does hubris play into pursuing one's dreams under societal constraints? How does one create healthy relationships with those centering their individualistic dreams? Join us for this dialogue at Sam's Place Jazz Cafe and hear from guest speaker Ron OJ Parson, the director of Milwaukee Rep’s production of August Wilson’s Seven Guitars, while sharing your thoughts with community members. Space is limited. Register today.

August Wilson’s Seven Guitars Dinner Dialogue
Monday, March 27, 5pm-8pm
Sam's Place Jazz Cafe
3338 N Doctor M.L.K. Jr Dr.

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Featured News

Five Reasons to See August Wilson's Seven Guitars

This acclaimed American classic is not to be missed – and here are five top reasons why everyone should see this production, coming to the Quadracci Powerhouse from March 7 – April 2, 2023.

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Designing August Wilson's Seven Guitars

Get a sneak peek at the costume designs for this modern classic by Yvonne L. Miranda and be transported to to Pittsburgh, 1948, where local blues guitarist Floyd “Schoolboy” Barton sits on the edge of stardom.

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