Dulé Hill is set to embark on a four-part journey across the United States in a new PBS series titled “THE EXPRESS WAY WITH DULÉ HILL.” Collaborating with director Danny Lee, the series explores the profound impact of the arts on individuals and communities, shedding light on those who use creativity as a force for self-expression and positive change.
Premiering on Tuesdays, from April 23 to May 14, 9:00-10:00 pm ET, the series will be available on PBS, PBS.org, and the PBS App. Hill’s mission is to connect with local visionaries, activists, changemakers, and pioneers, emphasizing the transformative power of artistic passions.
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The first episode, “California,” dives into the Golden State’s diverse artistic landscape. Hill encounters Shaheem Sanchez, a deaf dancer breaking barriers, the Grant Avenue Follies, a cabaret troupe of senior activists combatting anti-Asian hate, and Carlos Sameniego, founder of the world’s first LGBTQ+ mariachi group.
Moving to “Appalachia” in the second episode, Hill explores the region’s challenges, meeting individuals like Doug Naselroad, founder of the Appalachian Stringed Instrument Company, and Amythyst Kiah, a Grammy-nominated queer, black, bluegrass musician.
The series continues in “Texas,” where Hill connects with leaders like Abuela M’api Rainflowa, founder of Houston Aztec Dance & Drum, and David Lozano, Executive Director of Cara Mía Theatre, amplifying the Latino experience through daring theatrical productions.
Closing the journey in “Chicago,” the series sheds light on the city’s rich history and the intertwining of art and activism. Hill joins the Andre Theatre Collective in casting sessions, meets Vershawn Sanders Ward, the founding Artistic Director of Red Clay Dance, and shares the stage with Bassel Almadani, a Syrian-American musician using his platform for awareness.
As a lifelong dancer, actor, and singer, Hill expresses, “The power of the human spirit is really an inspiring thing. There are many people in this world who create space out of nothing.”
PBS, committed to arts and cultural programming, recognizes the series’ importance in fostering cultural understanding through creative expression. Sylvia Bugg, Chief Programming Executive of PBS, acknowledges Hill as the perfect guide for this artistic exploration.
The series is produced by CALICO for PBS, with Danny Lee as the director and executive producer. Funding for the series was provided, in part, by the Anne Ray Foundation.