Don’t Miss the 10th Anniversary of Poetry Unplugged! | Jan. 16th

 

Poetry Unplugged has always been more than a show. It is a gathering of voices, a meeting of minds, and a space where truth is spoken out loud. As we prepare to celebrate the 10th anniversary of this beloved series, we are reflecting on the artists who have shaped Poetry Unplugged into what it is today. From last year’s powerful tribute, Poetry Unplugged: Always August, featuring icons like The Last Poets to unforgettable moments from past seasons with artists like the late Malcolm Jamal Warner (2023), Jessica Care Moore (2022), Mahogany Browne (2022), and the late Nikki Giovanni (2021) that blended poetry, visual art, and cultural memory. Our stage has consistently been a place for words of reverence, resistance, and release for our community.

Join us for a night rooted in artistry and help us celebrate ten years of Poetry Unplugged at the August Wilson African American Cultural Center.

POETRY UNPLUGGED: STILL DREAMING! FRIDAY, JANUARY 16 | 7PM-11PM 980 LIBERTY AVENUE PITTSBURGH, PA 15222 TICKETS $25

Curated and hosted by Orlando Watson, this anniversary program brings together an extraordinary lineup of Pennsylvania-based poets whose work speaks directly to our moment, including Diarra Imani, Thembisile Gxuluwe, Devantae Butler, Leslie Ezra Smith, Shockie G, and Mike Smalls. The night features a special appearance by 2026 GRAMMY-nominated songwriter Khemist Mayfield of Philadelphia, alongside some of Pittsburgh’s most electrifying voices. Setting the tone throughout the evening is Selecta, the viral Twitch DJ whose genre-blending sound will carry us through the performance before an after-party and open mic. We are still dreaming forward. We hope to see you there. Sponsored by Citizens.

Watch Poetry Unplugged: Always August - The Last Poets Watch Poetry Unplugged: Always August - Yex

Before the lights go up on our 10th anniversary celebration, take a moment to revisit some of Poetry Unplugged’s most unforgettable moments. These are the verses that shook the room, sparked reflection, and stayed with us long after the final line. Experience the energy and be there when history is made again.

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The August Wilson African American Cultural Center is the gateway to Pittsburgh's Cultural District and one of the largest Black, multi-disciplinary arts centers in the country. We uphold the legacy of August Wilson by presenting extraordinary work of artists and storytellers of the African Diaspora, for all to enjoy. We educate people of all ages about the history of Black arts and culture. We inspire the next generation to understand that their stories matter. In 2025, as we celebrate the 15th Anniversary of the opening of our building and what would have been August Wilson's 80th year, we have launched the Fuel the Future Fundraising Drive to ensure our Center continues to be a resource and beacon of inspiration for all, for years to come. There has never been a more important time to get involved! With your donation, you will spark the next chapter of our work and inspire the imaginations of future generations of artists and arts lovers. Please make a gift today!

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August Wilson African American Cultural Center 980 Liberty Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15222