The event, which is directed by Santiago-Hudson, is part of both the summer-long River to River Festival and the Signature Theatre Company's season-long tribute to Wilson. The season has just kicked off with their production of Seven Guitars, which features original music by Sims and is also directed by Santiago-Hudson, who won a Tony Award for acting in the show's 1996 Broadway production.

August Wilson and the Blues will draw from the late playwright's 10-play cycle about Pittsburgh's Hill District, which includes Fences, Gem of the Ocean, The Piano Lesson, and Seven Guitars.

Signature's Wilson season will continue with productions of his plays Two Trains Running (November 7-December 31) and King Hedley II (February 2007). Call 212-244-PLAY for information.