Jitney: a modern classic arrives at The Old Vic
1970s Pittsburgh. A company of African American drivers take the people of the Hill District where regular cabs won't, healing old wounds and tearing new ones in between pick-ups. This is Jitney — an Old Vic, Headlong and Leeds Playhouse co-production, which lands in London for a mere month-long run on 9 June.
Jitney — named after a slang term for unlicenced taxis — is the eighth play in August Wilson's acclaimed American Century Cycle, which collectively earned the late playwright five Pulitzer Prize nominations and two wins, plus a whole host of other awards. Even if you're not big on theatre, there's a good chance you'll know Wilson's work; his plays Fences and Ma Rainey's Black Bottom have been adapted into award-winning films.
This perfectly-cast production, directed by Tinuke Craig, proved a critical triumph during its previous run at Leeds Playhouse, earning four-star reviews in The Guardian and The Times and a full five stars from The Telegraph. BSL, captioned, audio described, and relaxed performances are available, and tickets start at just £12. Remember, Jitney is only at The Old Vic till 9 July — book now to avoid missing out on this modern classic. |