In a bustling theatre district in New York City, anticipation fills the air as crowds of fans eagerly gather outside the Ethel Barrymore Theatre, waiting for a glimpse of Taraji P. Henson. With her Broadway debut in August Wilson’s acclaimed play *Joe Turner’s Come and Gone* just a week away, Henson has been making it a point to connect with her audience, demonstrating the warmth and sincerity that have defined her three-decade career in Hollywood.
“I feel like I’m Cardi B on tour,” she quips during our video call, reflecting on her recent interactions with fans post-performance. Henson has long been known for her powerful portrayals on screen—from a fierce hip-hop artist in *Hustle & Flow* to a brilliant mathematician in *Hidden Figures*, her versatility is undeniable. But it is on stage, she asserts, where her true passion lies.
A Journey to Broadway
Despite her illustrious film career, Broadway was always in Henson’s sights. It was a brief conversation with the legendary Debbie Allen that set the stage for her return to the theatre. “Joe Turner found me. [My character] Bertha found me,” Henson recalls, animatedly imitating Allen’s distinctive voice. “All you had to do was say August Wilson, and I’m in.”
*Joe Turner’s Come and Gone*, part of Wilson’s esteemed Century Cycle, tells the story of Black Americans grappling with their identities in the aftermath of slavery. Henson plays Bertha Holly, the nurturing matriarch of a boarding house, alongside a talented ensemble that includes Cedric The Entertainer and Ruben Santiago-Hudson. Together, they breathe new life into Wilson’s poignant exploration of community, spirituality, and resilience.
Themes of Connection and Displacement
Set in 1911 Pittsburgh, the narrative echoes with themes that resonate deeply in today’s world, where issues of displacement and familial separation remain prevalent. “Families are being pulled apart right now as we speak,” Henson says in a somber tone. “Somebody who is being detained by ICE right now just disappeared. Whole families are being wrecked. That’s crazy to me.”
The play also intricately weaves in elements of Black spirituality, reflecting a cultural landscape that has evolved significantly since its original premiere in 1988. Henson notes the growing understanding of African-American faith beyond Christianity, underscored by recent works like Ryan Coogler’s *Sinners*, which explored Hoodoo practices.
“It’s just who we are,” she affirms. “You could take us from a whole continent, but you won’t disconnect us from the creator.”
Embracing Purpose Amidst Burnout
For Henson, this Broadway debut signifies not just a career milestone, but a reconnection with her purpose. She candidly shares her struggles with burnout, particularly when facing the industry’s harsh realities. “It’s exhausting to have to fight for my worth,” she admits, reflecting on her experiences with pay disparities for Black women in Hollywood.
Yet, her return to theatre has reignited her passion for acting. “I still have a love for the craft,” she explains. “The wizard doesn’t exist for me anymore. The rose-colored glasses are off.” With a production company of her own, Henson is keenly aware of the industry’s dynamics and the toll they can take.
Her dedication to the craft shines through in her performance as Bertha, where she effortlessly blends emotional depth with her natural charisma. “I think the night you came, I dropped flour,” she recalls of a kitchen scene in the play. “But nobody noticed. That’s what’s so beautiful about live theatre: you can’t break character.”
A New Definition of Success
Henson’s Broadway journey has not only been about the accolades but also about redefining her measure of success. She now finds value in the connections she forges with her audience rather than the glittering awards that often dominate the conversation in Hollywood.
“I’m very hard on myself,” she admits. “The industry can play a game with your mind and make you think you’re not worthy because you don’t have ‘the gold’.” Instead, Henson chooses to focus on the love and appreciation she receives from those who come to watch her perform.
As she notes, “I’m so giving of my gift to the world, and the world sees it. That’s why they show up for me. And that’s [worth] more than man-made gold.”
Why it Matters
Taraji P. Henson’s return to the stage is more than a personal triumph; it’s a powerful statement about resilience and the importance of artistic expression in an often unforgiving industry. By sharing her journey, she not only inspires others facing similar struggles but also highlights the pressing issues of identity and community that resonate in contemporary society. As *Joe Turner’s Come and Gone* continues its run on Broadway, Henson’s performance serves as a reminder that art can be a profound vehicle for connection, healing, and purpose.
