Gallery Closure Notice: AWAACC galleries will be closed on April 5, April 10–12, and April 19. Learn More

Press Releases

2026

Mar 12

What’s new in U.S. cities for 2026—and how to experience it

Cities across the U.S. are renovating attractions, unveiling museums and celebrating anniversaries. Whether you want to drive around LA in a classic car or beatbox in the Bronx, these tours…

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Mar 11

Pittsburgh leaders honor 5 museums that earned national recognition in USA Today rankings

Five of Pittsburgh’s museums are being recognized both nationally and locally, and city leaders say it comes at the perfect time. The August Wilson African American Cultural Center also made…

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Mar 11

‘Museum Week’ proclaimed in Pittsburgh as local museums rank among nation’s best

Pittsburgh officials recognized several local museums for being ranked among the best in the country. The Heinz History Center and Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh were ranked No. 1 in their…

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Mar 03

Nia Sioux, former “Dance Moms” star, is ready to tell her story “unapologetically”

Former “Dance Moms” star Nia Sioux opens up about her new book “Bottom of the Pyramid.”

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Feb 26
Feb 19

What it means to grow up Black and a girl in Pittsburgh: Perspective and the places that support us

Growing up Black and a girl in Pittsburgh has meant learning who I am while the world tries to tell me who I should be. Some of my earliest memories…

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Feb 18

10 best museums in the US that you can visit for free

Named after the well-renowned playwright, this Pittsburgh institution features rotating exhibitions centering on Black culture. Previous exhibitions have featured the works of artists like Jo-Anne Bates and Garrett Bradley, highlighted…

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Feb 02

Celebrating Black History Month at the August Wilson African American Cultural Center

The vibrant artwork is on display at the August Wilson African American Cultural Center.

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Feb 02

Kidsburgh’s 2026 Summer Camp Guide: 75 local camps for kids of all ages and interests

Summer is coming (we promise!) and our annual Summer Camp Guide is here to help you plan a season of fun and learning for your kids. As always, we’re excited…

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Jan 28

What Does Black History Month Mean to Pittsburgh?

In Pittsburgh, Black History Month is far more than a calendar event. In the Hill District, East Liberty, the Strip, inside kitchens, music studios, theaters, and media offices, Black Pittsburghers…

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Jan 24

Youth Express: Envisioning A Just Pittsburgh

From 01/24/2026: Dawn Martin (12th grade, Passport Academy Charter School) discussing her award-winning entry from Envisioning A Just Pittsburgh, an art show presenting visions for a just and equitable Pittsburgh,…

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Jan 22

The August Wilson African American Cultural Center will be closed on Sunday, January 25

Due to the anticipated winter storm this weekend, the August Wilson African American Cultural Center will be closed on Sunday, January 25. The safety of our visitors, artists, staff, and…

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Jan 05

10 reasons to get out of the house and explore in January: Pittsburgh Restaurant Week, Sad Karaoke and more

Join the August Wilson African American Cultural Center to celebrate the 10th anniversary of its Poetry Unplugged series and honor the trailblazing life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Experience a…

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2025

Dec 23

August Wilson Center raising funds with seat-naming opportunity

Theater-goers have a chance to make a visible investment in the August Wilson African American Cultural Center in Downtown Pittsburgh through new seat-naming opportunities. The initiative is a legacy-giving chance…

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Dec 16

Changes to Membership Program Effective February 1, 2026

The August Wilson African American Cultural Center (AWAACC) wishes to inform our community of important updates to our membership program taking effect February 1, 2026. Membership Changes We’ve added free gallery…

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Dec 15

August Wilson Center Community Day Celebrates Kwanzaa, Christmas

Sarah and Gerald Haynes posed for a photo with their 16-month-old daughter in front of Santa and Mrs. Claus on Saturday, eager to teach her not only Christmas traditions but…

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Dec 11

Nigerian artist Peju Alatise’s sculptural installation returns to Pittsburgh’s August Wilson Center

Nigerian artist Peju Alatise’s sculptural installation “Flying Girls” was one of Pittsburgh’s visual art highlights of the year in 2018. The stunning, room-sized piece made its U.S. debut at the…

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Dec 03

Pittsburgh’s People of the Year 2025 — Performing Arts: Janis Burley

When Janis Burley took over as leader of the August Wilson African American Cultural Center (AWAACC) in 2017, she knew what kind of organization she wanted to develop. “My vision…

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Nov 26

Mon Valley native Tamara Tunie holds her heritage close to her heart

Tamara Tunie said she has taken her Pittsburgh roots into every performance she’s done. That heritage came full circle on Nov. 21 when the August Wilson African American Cultural Center…

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Nov 20

Dedicate a Seat at AWAACC: Claim Your Place in Our Shared Story

The August Wilson African American Cultural Center (AWAACC) invites supporters, arts lovers, and community champions to become a permanent part of our history by dedicating a seat in our theater….

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Nov 19

15+ Things to Do this Weekend in Pittsburgh, from Light Up Night to Comedy in a Sauna

Fuel the Future: Take Center Stage Gala at the August Wilson African American Cultural Center. Join the museum to mark the 15th anniversary of the iconic building’s opening, to honor…

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Nov 17

End of Year Gallery Closures

The August Wilson African American Cultural Center (AWAACC) wishes to inform our visitors of the following seasonal adjustments to our public hours of operation during the upcoming holiday period. Scheduled…

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Nov 16

National Luminaries and Pittsburgh Trailblazers to be Honored at August Wilson Cultural Center Gala

While the August Wilson African American Cultural Center’s upcoming gala acts as a celebration, it also serves as a fundraiser — a way to support the nonprofit’s mission of elevating…

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Nov 13

Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival 2025

The 2025 Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival delivered a standout event this year. The outdoor stage stretched across Liberty Avenue with a two-day line up of artists that combined tradition and…

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Oct 22

You’re Invited! The Ebony Canal NYC Screening at Urbanworld Film Festival

The powerful story of Black motherhood, legacy, and healing continues to make waves on the national stage as it screens at the Urbanworld Film Festival in New York City, one…

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