Two Trains Running

Memphis Lee's diner has seen better days, as has the neighborhood. Once the Hill District was one of Pittsburgh's most well-off black neighborhoods, but now it's quickly emptying out of people and businesses. The city wants to use eminent domain to force Lee out in order to renew this end of town, but he won't budge unless they meet the price he sets. It's the classic story of the high and mighty having their way with the little guy, but Lee is high-handed in his own right. Risa, who works for him, gets no appreciation or respect. Sterling, fresh out of jail, thinks she may be interested in an upcoming rally for racial justice, but Risa isn't buying it. August Wilson's drama Two Trains Running captures the deep divides in the civil rights movement after Malcolm X's murder, between generations, and men and women. The Black Rep presents Two Trains Running at 7 p.m. Thursday, 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday (January 10 to 26) at Washington University's Edison Theatre (6465 Forsyth Boulevard; www.theblackrep.org). James A. Williams, who originated the role of Roosevelt in Radio Golf on Broadway, returns to St. Louis to perform the part of Lee. Tickets are $45 to $50.