Ray Fisher on Going From Bartender During ‘Fences’ Broadway Theatre Run to Starring in ‘The Piano Lesson’: ‘It’s a Full Circle Moment’

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As a seasoned movie buff with a penchant for unraveling the complexities of human emotions on screen, I found Ray Fisher‘s journey in “The Piano Lesson” nothing short of captivating. His portrayal of Lyman, a character brimming with earnestness and resilience, resonated deeply within me.

For Ray Fisher, playing the character in “The Piano Lesson” wasn’t merely a job – it was a significant and impactful moment, a chance to delve into the intricate aspects of humanity, pain, and familial ties that have kept Wilson’s masterpieces relevant over time.

During the latest episode of the EbMaster Awards Circuit Podcast, Fisher remarks that August Wilson possesses a unique talent for connecting with the essence of humanity itself. Although he penned this play in the 1980s, set in the 1930s, it seems as if it’s addressing contemporary issues. The familial struggles, the healing from past wounds, and the search for a way forward – all these themes resonate universally.” Here’s the link to the podcast where you can hear more about it!

https://playlist.megaphone.fm

Under the guidance of director Malcolm Washington, “The Piano Lesson” presents a compelling adaptation, imbuing August Wilson’s original script with an intense relevance that mirrors contemporary issues. The stellar ensemble, consisting of John David Washington, Danielle Deadwyler, and Samuel L. Jackson, delivers captivating performances throughout the production.

The film adaptation of ‘The Piano Lesson’ vividly translates Wilson’s script to the screen, enhancing the play’s breadth with captivating visuals, yet maintaining its heartfelt essence. Washington’s direction is commended by Fisher as deeply empathetic, showcasing a thoughtful approach that resonates deeply.

Malcolm Washington and his co-screenwriter Virgil Williams discovered a method to condense the play without compromising its essence. Fisher explains to EbMaster, “The movie seems more expansive. Despite the fact that most of the narrative unfolds within a single house, it still carries a cinematic feel. It doesn’t allow viewers to look away from the history and trauma these characters are dealing with.

This confrontation with the past is at the story’s heart for Fisher. “You can’t turn away from your history,” he says. “You can’t turn away from your trauma. It’ll keep following you like a ghost. Until you confront it — and that’s what this family has to do.”

In this role, Fisher portrays Lyman, a sincere, thoughtful man yearning for companionship and solid footing amidst a world that frequently feels hostile. This character serves as a contrast to John David Washington’s dynamic and determined character, Boy Willie. For Fisher, the secret to embodying Lyman lay in beginning from a place of honesty.

Fisher notes that Lyman is genuinely sincere at heart. He’s not a smooth-talker or a con artist. Instead, he yearns for affection, camaraderie, and a new beginning, yet he may struggle to articulate these feelings effectively. Despite his past hardships, Lyman hasn’t become cynical or closed off. I aimed to convey that essence – an individual who has faced significant adversity but remains curious and open-hearted about life.

Fisher praises August Wilson’s writing for crafting a character that seems both unique and relatable. “Wilson paints all his characters so vividly, you can empathize with any figure in this tale,” he says. “On some days, you might find yourself supporting Berniece, or Boy Willie, or even Lyman.” He adds, “That’s the brilliance of this work – there’s no definitive right or wrong choice about the family’s future direction.

One particularly moving moment in the movie occurs when Fisher, Samuel L. Jackson, John David Washington, and Michael Potts join voices in song. This scene resonates deeply, revealing their collective emotional fragility and mutual sorrow.

Fisher remarks, “This scene is incredibly moving. Four men, united by their mutual hardships and memories, discover a profound bond through music. It’s almost as if they’re releasing their pain and burdens – it feels like an act of catharsis. This moment showcases healing and shared humanity, which is seldom portrayed in narratives centered around Black men.

During filming, Fisher reminisces about the electric atmosphere on set while performing the scene: “We performed it live, which was astonishing. The sense of the history we were acknowledging was palpable. Initially, it seemed cheerful and playful, but as the song progressed, you could observe each actor’s personal journey reflected in their singing and expressions. It was profoundly solemn, strong, and deeply moving. That moment will undoubtedly linger with viewers.

Fisher, who hailed from Maryland and was brought up in Camden County, N.J., with five other siblings, came from a large family. He attributes his older brother for igniting his passion for movies, which they frequently enjoyed during movie marathons when blockbusters were released. In high school, he developed an affinity for theater and started participating in musicals while working at a Cinemark snack bar, allowing him to watch films free of charge. After taking a year off to seek direction, he enrolled at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York City, where he honed his acting skills and worked as a bartender on Broadway.

Reflecting back, it was awe-inspiring to be so near the enchantment of Broadway as I sought my path as an actor,” Fisher reminisces. “I tended bar for productions such as ‘Fences’ featuring Denzel Washington and Viola Davis, and that camaraderie has stayed with me. To leap forward in time and star in an August Wilson production alongside the Washington family – it seems like things have come full circle.

Looking back at the field and his part within it, Fisher maintains an optimistic outlook regarding the future of narrative expression and representation. “I wish the industry continues to stand firm in sharing varied narratives and addressing the authenticities of our past. There’s a strong pushback at present, but storytellers hold a duty to uphold that tradition and preserve those tales.

Moving forward, Fisher has several ventures on his plate, including the possibility of moving “Fetch Clay, Make Man” to Broadway. Additionally, he’s open to working with the Washington family once more if they reach out. As he puts it with a grin, “If they call, I’m there.

Fundamentally, Fisher is deeply passionate about art, and he never shies away from it. Above all else, he stresses the significance of being proactive and engaged. “We can’t just express our anger; we must take action. Get involved in your community. Stay alert. There’s always an opportunity to make a difference. I do this because I believe in the influence of storytelling. It’s about preserving history, fostering empathy, and propelling us forward. That’s the legacy of August Wilson — and I feel privileged to be part of it.

As a devoted viewer, I’m thrilled to share that this episode includes the talented Guy Pearce, famously known for his role in “The Brutalist.” Additionally, it offers an engaging Roundtable discourse featuring the victors of the National Board of Review and nominees from the Independent Spirit Awards.

Listen to previous podcast episodes

EbMaster Awards Circuit Podcast

EbMaster’s “Awards Circuit” podcast, hosted by Clayton Davis, Jazz Tangcay, Emily Longeretta, Jenelle Riley and Michael Schneider, who also produces, is your one-stop source for lively conversations about the best in film and television. Each episode, “Awards Circuit” features interviews with top film and TV talent and creatives, discussions and debates about awards races and industry headlines, and much more. Subscribe via Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify or anywhere you download podcasts

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2024-12-07 00:19