The work of August Wilson, one of America’s most celebrated playwrights, is gracing Cincinnati’s theatrical stages. Last month, we enjoyed "Fences" at Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s Otto M. Budig Theater. This month, we will head to Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park for "Two Trains Running."

"Two Trains Running" is the seventh play in August Wilson’s Century Cycle. The Cycle consists of ten plays, one for each decade of the 20th century, that dramatize the long and continuing struggle of African Americans against racial hatred and injustice. The play takes place in a restaurant run by Memphis Lee. It is the 1960s. The neighborhood is about to go through major economic development and gentrification.

The restaurant, once packed with customers, is now down to only a few regulars.  Memphis Lee reminisces about prosperous times and how many successful neighborhood businesses have closed. He must decide whether to let the city seize his building or sell it to a shrewd local businessman. In true Wilson fashion, "Two Trains Running" addresses race, oppression and identity during the evolution of the Civil Rights Movement.

As part of ArtsWave Days, Playhouse is offering a free preview performance of "Two Trains Running" on Saturday, March 2. Call the box office at 513-421-3888 for more information. For the play’s regular schedule and information, click here.

Finally, if you want to learn more about August Wilson, Playhouse is offering a free event: The Legacy of August Wilson on Monday, March 4 at 7 p.m.