About performance
As part of our commitment to presenting August Wilson’s work, we bring you our seventh production of his American Century Cycle: Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, directed by Gregg T. Daniel. Set in a Chicago recording studio in 1927, August Wilson’s Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom unfolds with tension, music, and truth. As legendary blues singer Ma Rainey arrives to record, underlying conflicts rise among her band, exposing deep wounds, ambition, and the realities of race in America. With sharp dialogue and unforgettable characters, Wilson crafts a powerful, intimate portrait of artistry, identity, and control. Both electric and deeply human, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom is a gripping exploration of faith, joy, and the cost of being heard.
AUGUST WILSON’S MA RAINEY’S BLACK BOTTOM is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com
Header Photo: Taína Estévez. Photo by Abe Portillo.
§ The Director is a member of the Stage Directors and Choreographers Society, a national theatrical labor union.
Special Performances
Opening Night
August 29, 2026 – 7:30pm
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Black Out Night
Black Out Night is a purposeful, exciting creation of an environment in which an audience, self-identifying as Black, can come together and experience a performance in community. A reception will follow the performance, providing an opportunity for the audience to discuss their experience and to socialize! Non-Black-identifying patrons have the option to attend, or to select a different performance.
September 12, 2026 – 7:30pm
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INsiders discussion
Join us at 12:30 pm prior to the August 30 matinee for a FREE INsiders Discussion!
August 30, 2026 – 12:30pm
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PLAN YOUR VISIT
DRIVING DIRECTIONS
A Noise Within’s Main Entrance and Box Office are located at 3352 E Foothill Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91107.
WALKING DIRECTIONS
Exit the parking structure at Level 1 on the Sierra Madre Villa Ave side where the elevators are located.
RIDING THE METRO
A Noise Within is conveniently located within steps of the Metro A Line Sierra Madre Villa station.
Event Calendar
Visit our event calendar to plan your next visit to the theater.
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