In August Wilson’s “Two Trains Running,” now onstage at American Conservatory Theater’s Toni Rembe Theater, the proprietor of a restaurant and the regulars in the booths and barstools there talk fast and loud. They’ve heard all the stories before — relief is in the retelling.
The seventh in Wilson’s 10-play series about African American life in 20th century Pittsburgh, the 1990 play, which is set in 1969, tells of a time when small businesses in the primarily Black neighborhoods were wiped out in the name of urban renewal.
Memphis Lee’s place is one of those gathering spots about to meet the wrecking ball.
This engaging, effective production by The Acting Company, powerfully directed by Lili-Anne Brown with a set design by Tanya Orellana, has a starry cast of characters. They come in to deal with their own personal struggles over a mug of hot coffee. They come for fried chicken and meat loaf, but also to air their dreams and failures. Their nonstop discourse about the hardtack lives of African Americans represents a timeless story.
All are tellers of tales, some won’t stray from their goals.
Restaurant owner Memphis (Michael A. Sheppard) insists he won’t sell his business to anyone for less than it’s worth.
Waitress Risa (DeAnna Supplee) has sass and soul.
Ex-con Sterling (James Milord) dances through with a plan a minute and courts Risa.
Holloway (Michael J. Asberry) is the resident philosopher.
West (Robert Cornelius) is the area’s wealthy undertaker.
Wolf (J’Laney Allen) is the busy gambling man.
Distraught Hambone (Chuckie Benson) eternally searches for a ham long promised him by a white employer.
They are in touch with a 300-year-old aunt who offers inspiration and advice.
At nearly three hours, “Two Trains Running” is long and somewhat less focused than the 1950s-set “Fences,” and its characters do not undergo major changes (other than the romance between Sterling and Risa).
Their lives continue to unwind in moments of hilarity, joy and anticipation, the funeral home on the street awaits, the wrecking ball remains poised at the ready.
The Acting Company’s “Two Trains Running” continues in repertory with “The Comedy of Errors” through May 4, 2025 at American Conservatory Theater’s Toni Rembe Theater, 415 Geary St., San Francisco. Tickets are $29 to $134 at act-sf.org.
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