Jitney (NHB Modern Plays)

Jitney is a play by August Wilson that explores the fragile bond between eight men in a racially segregated, post-Vietnam America. It received its British premiere at the National Theatre in 2001 and won the Olivier Award for Best New Play. This new edition was published alongside the 2021–22 revival by The Old Vic, Headlong, and Leeds Playhouse.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 88 pages
Publication date: 09 June 2022
Publisher: Nick Hern Books

In Pittsburgh's Hill District, a group of unlicensed drivers, led by Jim Becker, operates a taxi service that fills the gap left by regular cabs, offering a temporary respite from the hardships faced by the community. However, their presence brings forth a complex mix of emotions, healing old wounds and tearing new ones as they spend their time in a condemned taxi rank between pick-ups.

August Wilson's groundbreaking modern classic, Jitney, delves into the delicate relationship between eight men who navigate a racially segregated, post-Vietnam America. The play received its British premiere at the National Theatre in London in 2001, where it garnered critical acclaim and won the Olivier Award for Best New Play. This new edition of Jitney is being published alongside a revival by The Old Vic, Headlong, and Leeds Playhouse, directed by Tinuke Craig.

The play revolves around the Jitney cab company, which operates in the Hill District and serves as a lifeline for its predominantly African American passengers. The drivers, who are mostly immigrants or low-income individuals, struggle to make a living while facing discrimination and economic challenges.

Through the characters of Becker, his drivers, and the passengers they transport, Jitney explores themes of identity, race, and class. The play examines the complexities of human relationships, the struggles of working-class individuals, and the impact of systemic inequality on society.

Jitney is renowned for its powerful performances and its ability to capture the essence of urban life. The play's dialogue is sharp and witty, and its characters are nuanced and relatable. The production design, by Robin Wagner, effectively portrays the dilapidated taxi rank and the surrounding community, adding to the immersive experience of the play.

Over the years, Jitney has been staged numerous times, both in the United States and internationally. Its success has led to its adaptation into a film, which was released in 2022, further expanding its reach and impact.

In conclusion, Jitney is a masterpiece of American theater that explores the complexities of human relationships and the struggles of working-class individuals. Through its powerful performances, witty dialogue, and thought-provoking themes, the play continues to resonate with audiences and inspire discussions about race, class, and identity. Whether on stage or screen, Jitney remains a testament to the power of storytelling and its ability to shed light on the human experience.

Dimension: 198 x 129 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839040955