Actor Brandon Dirden Talks August Wilson’s “Jitney” (Video)

Jitney is not only a compelling play by playwright August Wilson, but it also depicts a real-life story in African American history.

The eighth in Wilson’s ‘Pittsburg Cycle’, Jitney tells the story of a community coming together when regular cab drivers will not travel to the Pittsburgh Hill District in the 1970s. The play dramatizes the lives of men hustling to make a living as “jitneys”, which are unofficial cab drivers. Directed by Ruben Santaigo-Hudson, this is an opportunity to see the fine work of August Wilson on display from Jan. 29-Feb. 19 at the Two River Theater in Red Bank, NJ.

Unheard Voices had the opportunity to chat with actor Brandon Dirden, about the play, life and the character he depicts – Darnell Williams AKA Youngblood.

“He’s your brother, he’s your cousin, and he’s your nephew. He’s has a big heart but doesn’t necessarily make the right decisions. But his heart is always in the right place. He’s quite mature. He’s dubbed Youngblood because he’s the youngest member in the crew.”

On Wilson:

He’s documented this story on a living drama. So [people] can see in action how it’s going down. This is how real people are affected by these policies … It’s brilliant!

On Jitney:

It is a fantastic slice of life in this community of Pittsburgh in the 1970s .. with a lot soul.

Jitney is currently playing at the Two River Theater in Red Bank, NJ. For more information or to buy tickets, visit the theater’s website at https://www.trtc.org.