Detroit Repertory Theatre

August Wilson's

The Piano Lesson

January 9 to March 15, 2026

“Everybody got stones in their passway…You ain't got to carry them with you."

In the Charles household, Berniece and her brother Boy Willie fight over the fate of the family piano; she treasures it as a precious connection to their ancestors, and he sees it as the means to a more prosperous future. Boy Willie argues that the past is past, but Berniece proves to be more formidable than he anticipated.

This fourth installment of the American Century Cycle is a haunting play about legacy.

*Not all performances are available for online purchase* Please call the box office Tues-Fri, 11am-5pm if the date you would like to purchase is not listed here. (313) 868-1347 The "Wheelchair Seats" field should not be reserved by patrons who are not using a wheelchair or otherwise require accessible seating. Guests who will remain in their wheelchair or mobility device for the duration of the show: please call us at (313) 868-1347 at least two weeks prior to the performance so that we can ensure proper accommodation. Please select a performance:

All seating is general admission.

Individual Tickets

Advance – $30
Same Day – $35

Subscriptions (valid 1yr from purchase)

Gold – $175
2 tickets to see each show 3 times

Silver – $100
1 ticket to see each show 2 times

Bargain Booklet (valid 1yr from purchase)

$210
10 tickets to use as you wish

Subscribers and Bargain Booklet holders are welcome to use walk-up seating but admission is only guaranteed with a reservation and reservations are strongly encouraged.

Please call (313) 868-1347 Tue–Fri 11AM–5PM to reserve using Subscriptions and Bargain Booklets.

Groups (10+)

Please contact james@detroitreptheatre.com to inquire about availability.