August Wilson's Gem of the Ocean at Gilmore Theatre Complex-Shaw Theatre

Gem of the Ocean takes place in 1904 in Pittsburgh's Hill District. The Hill is home to the city’s Black community, many of whom were formerly enslaved or children of those who survived slavery and migrated North to escape poverty, discrimination and danger in the south. The play is set in the home of Aunt Ester's, the community’s spiritual leader who is believed to be 285 years old and to have the power to “wash people’s souls.” Aunt Ester lives at 1839 Wylie Avenue with her mentee Black Mary, and her protector, Eli. The house is frequently visited by Solly Two Kings, a formerly enslaved man who helped many escape to freedom, and a white traveling salesman, Rutherford Selig.