Set in 1904, with slavery still within living memory, Gem of the Ocean is the first work chronologically in Wilson's ten-play cycle, which recounts, decade by decade, the 20th-century experience of African Americans. Racked with secret guilt, Citizen Barlow seeks refuge at the home of an ancient spiritualist, Aunt Ester, who sends him on an epic journey to find redemption and renewed purpose.

Trinity Rep (2022)

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Photography by Mark Turek