The Kennedy Center’s August Wilson’s 20th Century festival is a celebration of the playwright’s 10-play cycle. The plays are presented as staged readings with costumes, lighting and scenery and will be directed by seven well-known American directors. The festival is under the guidance of Kenny Leon, artistic director of Atlanta’s The Alliance Theatre Company until 2001, and Wilson’s longtime friend.

Wilson’s plays span 100 years, telling the story of the African-American experience from 1904 to 1997. Each play depicts a different decade.