Historic Production of SEVEN GUITARS a Hit at Pittsburgh Playwrights Theatre

In spite of oppressive August humidity, the first two weekends of the landmark production of August Wilson's "Seven Guitars" were sold out and pulled in rave reviews. All 165 seats on tiers as a thrust space were filled.

Pittsburgh Playwrights Theatre Company took the bold step to mount the play on the hallowed ground of August Wilson's childhood home, 1727 Bedford Avenue in Pittsburgh's Hill District neighborhood, just as he had described the setting in his notes for "Seven Guitars."

The significance of the occasion wasn't lost on the cast and crew, some of whom are veterans of Wilson canon and/or met the Bard of Bedford Avenue.The set was blessed at the start of rehearsals.

Wali Jamal (Hedley) has performed in nine of the ten American Century Cycle plays, all with PPTC (the first company to complete the cycle in its order of Broadway debut). "For me, this is like being a Shakespearean actor before at Stratford-on-Avon."

Saturday audience took part in a prayer circle blessing the production prior to the performance.

Due to two weekends of sold-out shows, word of mouth and positive reviews, two matinees have added for the final weekend.

For more information, go to www.pghplaywrights.com.