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August Wilson

LEAP’s highly regarded August Wilson Monologue Program introduces high school students to the life and work of renowned playwright August Wilson. In this program, led by LEAP’s skilled theater professionals, students explore Wilson’s 10-play Century Cycle—a dramatic chronicle of the 20th Century African-American experience—and examine important social issues and historical events. Students strengthen their acting skills and performance techniques while entering the world of monologues from all of Wilson’s works. As part of the program, students attend a Broadway or Off Broadway performance and meet with Broadway actors, directors, writers, and designers.

While participating in the August Wilson Monologue Competition, students:

  • learn about the life and legacy of August Wilson and his Century Cycle

  • improve literacy, as well as written and oral creative expression

  • build communication, collaboration, and cooperation skills

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The August Wilson Program culminates in a school-wide competition, and winners from each school participate in LEAP’s citywide August Wilson Monologue Competition on an Off Broadway stage. New York City finalists advance to the National August Wilson Monologue Competition at the August Wilson Theatre on Broadway to compete against students from 10-12 other cities.

Hear our students, school partners, and teaching artists share their experiences with the August Wilson Monologue Program. 

"The August Wilson Program taught me to be in the work, and to get it done... I feel like I can do anything now."

Keith, LEAP alum

interested?

Get in touch to bring our August Wilson Monologue Program to your school!

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