Taraji P. Henson and Cedric the Entertainer are set to star in a revival of August Wilson’s acclaimed play “Joe Turner’s Come and Gone,” scheduled to hit Broadway next spring. This will mark the third time the play has been staged on Broadway since its debut in 1988. The talented Debbie Allen will serve as the director for this significant production.
“Joe Turner’s Come and Gone” is an integral part of Wilson’s Century Cycle, a series of ten plays that explore the African American experience throughout the 20th century, with each play located in a different decade. This particular drama unfolds in Pittsburgh in 1911, centered around a boarding house filled with individuals from the rural South who are navigating a journey of self-discovery, struggle, and spirituality. Henson and Cedric will portray Bertha and Seth Holly, who are the proprietors of the boarding house.
Henson, who studied theater at Howard University, has predominantly made her mark in film and television, with notable roles in productions like “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” and “Empire.” This upcoming performance will mark her Broadway debut as an actress, although she was previously credited as a producer for the 2023 Broadway play “Jaja’s African Hair Braiding.”
The revival not only highlights the rich narrative of Wilson’s work but also reflects a continued interest in telling meaningful stories about Black life in America. The pairing of Henson and Cedric promises to bring a fresh energy and depth to the characters, making this production one to watch as it aims to resonate with both long-time fans of Wilson’s plays and new audiences alike.