August Wilson Center books new programs

The August Wilson Cultural Center, Downtown, will host three performances from the national Hi-Arts Residence program, beginning Dec. 8 with the multimedia theatrical experience “Harlem to Hollywood.”

New York-based Hi-Arts was formerly known as the Hip-Hop Theater Festival before finding a permanent home at El Barrio’s Artspace PS 109, a formerly abandoned public school in East Harlem. Hi-Arts programs are intended “to spread cultural awareness and deliver artistic opportunities to underserved demographics.”

Coming to the Wilson Center are:

Dec. 8: “Harlem to Hollywood,” cowritten and performed by Malik Yoba and directed by co-writer Kevin Ramsey. Mr. Yoba’s immersive multimedia theatrical experience about his three-decade career is set in a therapist’s office, where he explores themes of family, career, relationships, mental health and self-acceptance.

Feb. 1: “DAPLINE!,” produced by AnDre M. Zachery and Lamont Hamilton. A mixed-media presentation that examines the origins of “dapping,” the intricate handshakes that serve as greetings used mostly between black men in the United States.

Feb. 20-21: “Tubman,” written and performed by Lacresha Berry. A one-woman show about abolitionist Harriet Tubman, reimagined as a young woman growing up in Harlem. “Tubman” asks, “What would happen if a young woman like Harriet became a leader in this new world? Would her struggle be the same?”

Tickets/details: aacc-awc.org or 412-339-1011.