August Wilson African American Cultural Center

By Kyle Passante

The August Wilson African American Cultural Center is world renowned for its work in the arts. It is an U.S. nonprofit art organization that specializes in showcasing performing and visual arts programs.

The August Wilson Center participates and works with regional and national audiences in its goal to preserve and celebrate the art, culture and history of African Americans. By simply utilizing the rich history, legacy and culture of African Americans from the Pittsburgh Area as a foundation. 

The incredibly designed modern venue of the August Wilson African Cultural Center has exhibition galleries, a 492-seat theater for performances and presentations for all genres and mediums. Along with an education center for classes, lectures and conducive learning, and beautiful spaces for community involved programs and events.

Allison G. Williams, FAIA and members of her team from her San Francisco office of Perkins and Will, were in charge of the direction and execution of the current design of the building. During the designing process of the project, AI merged with MBT Architecture and then subsequently bought by Perkins and Will. The design of the project was completed in their San Francisco office. Team members included Greg Lehman, Sally Curtis, and Stacie Velten. 

Local and global support of donations from people all over helped create the construction of the August Wilson Center. The magnificent completion of a cultural facility in Downtown Pittsburgh's Cultural District as shown great success throughout the community of Pittsburgh.  

After a successful opening, The Center is asking for continued support to help it become a premier destination for the appreciation of African American culture and history. Visit to be amazed by an array of eclectic entertainment, ranging from dance, music, theater and literary arts. 

Visit www.AugustWilsonCenter.org for more information about the programming, join the mailing list or subscribe to the e-newsletter.