By Amanda VanNostrand.
Philadelphia is currently home to two of August Wilson’s shows, and the newest performance to grace our presence is none other than August Wilson’s story itself: How I Learned What I Learned was written by Wilson (and was at one point performed by him as well!) and it is a show that is enriching for all. Featured on Arden Theatre Company’s Bob and Selma Horan Studio Theatre Stage, this one-man show tells Wilson’s story through small, significant moments of his life. How I Learned What I Learned is incredibly well told and entertains to perfection.
Kesserack plays August Wilson in the Arden’s production of How I Learned What I Learned and he is phenomenal. The show goes on for 90 minutes, and he speaks and acts the entire time, giving a wholly impressive rendition of Wilson’s autobiographical work. The audience is arranged in four sections on the perimeter of a rectangular carpet, and Kesserack rotates throughout the room as he performs Wilson’s prominent life stories. Words and photos grace the walls outside behind each side of the audience, providing additional visual elements to Wilson’s work. (Lighting and Video Designer – Matt Webb)
Through How I Learned What I Learned August Wilson tells tales of meeting Mr. Rogers, living in Pittsburgh, being evicted, falling in love, and more. It is about his life experiences in Pittsburgh in the 60s as a black man and writer. Injustices are explained and Wilson’s writing skills come out as the stories cover harsh realities that are cushioned by comedy in Wilson’s lines and Kesserack’s acting. The blend of seriousness and laughter is a feat that can only be accomplished by an accomplished writer, and August Wilson has (once again) proven that he is capable of brilliant writing, as Kesserack proves his knack for brilliant acting.
It is a privilege for Philadelphia to have two of Wilson’s plays running at the same time; theatre lovers are remiss if they do not attend both this season. In Gem of the Ocean, the line, “every time they try to swim, the law pull them under” is striking. During How I Learned What I Learned, these realities are placed on the stage and the audience is educated about life in America while being entertained by Wilson’s storytelling. This show is important and relevant, and all should appreciate that it is in our city at this time.