Baltimore audiences will soon have the opportunity to experience one of the most powerful works in American theater asChesapeake Shakespeare Companyannounces its upcoming production ofFencesby the legendary playwrightAugust Wilson. Directed by acclaimed theater artistReginald L. Douglas, the Pulitzer Prize–winning drama will run from February 6 through March 1, 2026, at CSC’s downtown Baltimore theater.

This staging marks CSC’s second contribution to the Baltimore August Wilson Celebration and represents the sixth production presented citywide as part of the tribute to Wilson’s American Century Cycle. Often regarded as Wilson’s most culturally resonant work,Fencesoffers an intimate and unflinching examination of family, labor, race, and the elusive promise of the American Dream.

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Set in 1950s Pittsburgh,Fencescenters on Troy Maxson, a former Negro League baseball standout whose unrealized dreams continue to shape—and haunt—his life as a husband, father, and working-class man. Now employed as a sanitation worker, Troy must confront a society that denied him opportunity while still demanding his labor and loyalty.

CSC company member DeJeanette Horne takes on the formidable role of Troy Maxson, continuing a strong relationship with the company following standout performances asJulius Caesarand the Earl of Leicester inMary Stuart. Opposite him, his real-life wife Lolita Marie portrays Rose Maxson. A Helen Hayes Award–winning actor, Marie is widely respected for her commanding presence and emotional depth across stages throughout the region. Their pairing underscores CSC’s ongoing commitment to uplifting and showcasing the strength of the regional theater community.

Making his CSC debut, director Reginald L. Douglas—Artistic Director of Washington, D.C.’s Mosaic Theater Company—returns to August Wilson’s work for the third time. Known nationally for his thoughtful and text-driven approach, Douglas brings a deep understanding of Wilson’s language and structure to a company rooted in classical theater traditions.

“Having Wilson’s words on stage at CSC helps affirm his power and prowess as one of the great playwrights not just in American history, but of all time,” Douglas shared. “Our production celebrates the heart, humor, vulnerability, and resilience of the many unsung heroes of African American history, while inviting audiences to reflect on our shared history as a nation daring to dream.”

CSC first joined the Baltimore August Wilson Celebration in 2024 with its production ofJoe Turner’s Come and Goneand now returns to help bring the multi-year celebration to its culmination withFences. The production followsSeven Guitars, presented by Spotlighters Theatre, which runs from January 9 through February 1, 2026. The citywide celebration was conceived by CSC Producing Executive Director Lesley Malin and is administered by Chesapeake Shakespeare Company.

In keeping with previous Celebration productions, CSC will also host a series of community engagement opportunities tied toFences, including post-show discussions and special events designed to deepen conversation around Wilson’s themes and enduring legacy.

LocationChesapeake Shakespeare Company7 South Calvert Street, Baltimore, MD 21202Located two blocks north of the Inner Harbor and accessible via the FREE Charm City Circulator (Purple Route). Discounted parking is available at nearby garages.

TicketsAdult tickets start at $59Youth (25 and under) tickets start at $31Preview tickets are $25

Tickets may be purchased online atwww.chesapeakeshakespeare.com/fencesor by calling the Box Office at 410-244-8570. Additional information about the company and its season is available atwww.chesapeakeshakespeare.com. Discounts are available for groups of ten or more and for active-duty military members.

Performance DatesPreview performances begin Wednesday, February 4. Regular performances run from Friday, February 6 through Sunday, March 1, 2026, with evening and matinee options throughout the engagement.

WithFences, Chesapeake Shakespeare Company continues its tradition of pairing classical excellence with vital American storytelling, offering Baltimore audiences a resonant and timely theatrical experience rooted in one of the most important voices of the twentieth century.