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August Wilson’s King Hedley II

By August Wilson
Directed by Tim Bond
July 16 – October 24, 2026 Thomas Theatre

“I want everybody to know that King Hedley II is here...”

It’s 1985, and King returns to his family and community, determined to take control of his life after having served seven years in prison. He patches together odd jobs—some legal, some not, hoping to open a video store and build a new future. Two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright August Wilson has created a mythic and metaphysical landscape full of unabashed lyricism amongst the crumbling Black neighborhood of Pittsburgh’s Hill District. Like the hero of a Greek tragedy, King seeks redemption from a past that still haunts him: the murder that changed his life, old vendettas that won’t die, and an explosive secret his mother has kept hidden. Director Tim Bond brings his love of August Wilson, along with a powerhouse cast, to this poetically tragic epic about systems of violence and intergenerational poverty, the ninth play in Wilson’s American Century Cycle.

King Hedley II continues OSF’s commitment to August Wilson’s monumental American Century Cycle.

 

August Wilson’s King Hedley II is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com 

Tickets!
Presale begins November 4th
General on sale begins December 2nd
Suitability Suggestions
Written by two-time Pulitzer Prize winner August Wilson, this play provides a gritty but poetic and language-driven look into Pittsburgh in the 1980s. Dialogue contains strong profanity, discussion of abortion, potentially blasphemous language, vivid descriptions of sexuality, and onstage violence. The “n-word” is used familiarly by Black characters to one another. Due to the mature content, this play is best suited to well-prepared students who can handle the material. Preface recommended.

For additional content warnings regarding violence or graphic depictions that may be upsetting to some audience members, please see our Content Warnings page (may contain spoilers).
Accessibility
The Thomas Theatre is outfitted with an elevator to the theatre level.

The Oregon Shakespeare Festival is committed to accessibility. We recognize the needs of persons with disabilities and strive to make our facilities and productions accessible to all. Please visit our Accessibility page for details about 2025 programs and services as they develop.
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