How I Learned What I Learned

Original Producer: Seattle Repertory Theatre, 2003
Performer: August Wilson
Director: Todd Kreidler
Written by: August Wilson
Co-Conceived by: Todd Kreidler

Second Production Producer: Signature Theater, 2013
Performer: Ruben Santiago-Hudson
Director: Todd Kreidler
Written by: August Wilson
Co-Conceived by: Todd Kreidler

Todd Kreidler co-created the autobiographical show How I Learned What I Learned through a close collaboration with his longtime friend and mentor, August Wilson. The project evolved from their numerous personal conversations, with Todd playing a key role in shaping Wilson’s life stories into a compelling theatrical piece. They were first invited to develop the show at Seattle Repertory Theatre, where Todd directed the premiere in 2003, making him the only person to have directed Wilson performing the role himself. The show went on to be produced at regional theatres across the country, with acclaimed performances by actors such as Ruben Santiago-Hudson (Signature Theatre, NYC) and Eugene Lee (Pittsburgh Public Theater, The Huntington Theatre, True Colors Theatre, and Roundhouse Theatre).

Interviews

Playwright Wilson Turns Actor in ‘How I Learned’: NPR

Articles

Wilson’s ‘What I Learned’ droll, thoughtful, packed with surprises

Learning from August Wilson. Todd Kreidler remembers his friend and mentor

Fences – Broadway Play – 2010 Revival | IBDB

Videos

Rehearsing August Wilson’s Memoir | HOW I LEARNED WHAT I LEARNED

“Don’t be like Cy” | Scene from August Wilson’s HOW I LEARNED WHAT I LEARNED

First Rehearsal of August Wilson’s HOW I LEARNED WHAT I LEARNED

Director, Actor talk about August Wilson’s How I Learned What I Learned