RED BANK — Two River Theater, under the leadership of Artistic Director John Dias and Managing Director Michael Hurst, will launch its 2016/17 season with an extended four-week run of August Wilson’s “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom,” directed by Ruben Santiago-Hudson.
Performances will begin Sept. 10 at Two River’s Rechnitz Theater, 21 Bridge Ave., and continue through Oct. 9. Opening night is set for 8 p.m. Sept. 16.
“Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” is the fourth play in Wilson’s American Century Cycle produced by Two River, following “Jitney,” “Two Trains Running” and “Seven Guitars.” Set in the 1920s, the drama takes audiences into the world of legendary singer Ma Rainey (the real-life “Mother of the Blues”) as she lays down tracks with her band in a Chicago recording studio.
Santiago-Hudson, who is also an actor and playwright, won a Tony Award for his performance in the Broadway production of “Seven Guitars.” He also directed “Jitney” and “Two Trains Running” and his own world-premiere play, “Your Blues Ain’t Sweet Like Mine” at Two River.
The cast includes Chanté Adams (Dussie May), Harvy Blanks (Slow Drag), Brian D. Coats (Toledo), Michael Cumpsty (Irvin), Brandon J. Dirden (Levee), Bob Mackasek (policeman), Marcel Spears (Sylvester), Peter Van Wagner (Sturdyvant), Arnetia Walker (Ma Rainey) and James A. Williams (Cutler).
Tickets range from $40-$70, with discounts available for groups, seniors, veterans and U.S. military personnel and their families. A limited number of $20 tickets are available at each performance; $20 tickets may be partial view. Tickets for patrons under 30 are $20 and include the best available seats at every performance. Tickets are available by calling 732-345-1400 or visiting www.tworivertheater.org.
