Renowned actor, dancer, and singer Dulé Hill explores the power of the arts.
The Express Way with Dulé Hill airs Tuesdays at 9 p.m., April 23- on WXXI-TV.
The series captures diverse artists’ stories from across America, celebrating community, humanity, and the transformative potential of creative expression. Each episode serves as a bridge, connecting diverse backgrounds and celebrating the universal power of the arts to illuminate the human experience. The journey begins in California, a state synonymous with dreams, where Dulé uncovers a narrative beyond the surface.
Engaging with individuals using art to reshape personal and communal stories, Dulé encounters the extraordinary Shaheem Sanchez, a deaf dancer challenging stereotypes and proving that the rhythm of life transcends auditory limitations. Moving to San Francisco, Dulé introduces us to the Grant Avenue Follies, a cabaret of spirited senior citizens led by Cynthia Yee. In Los Angeles, Dulé delves into the LGBTQ+ mariachi revolution with Carlos Sameniego, founder of Mariachi Arcoiris. Overcoming machismo culture, Carlos, along with trans woman Natalia, creates a safe space for LGBTQ+ musicians. California airs Tuesday, April 23 at 9 p.m.
Shifting to the Appalachian region, Dulé connects with artists using music as a force for upliftment. Doug Naselroad’s Culture of Recovery program in Kentucky exemplifies the transformative power of art, guiding individuals recovering from opioid addiction to craft stringed instruments. Grammy-nominated bluegrass musician Amythyst Kiah in Tennessee and “latin-grass” artist Joe Troop in North Carolina illustrate the diversity and resilience of the region’s artistic landscape. Appalachia airs Tuesday, April 30 at 9 p.m.
In Houston, Abuela M’api Rainflowa shares the Mexica handshake, revealing her indigenous roots. In Dallas, David Lozano uses daring theatrical productions at Cara Mía Theatre to amplify the Latino experience, while John Bramblitt, a blind painter in Denton, guides others with blindness to reclaim their artistic abilities. Through these captivating Texas tales, Dulé Hill unveils the sacrifice and strength required to become a guiding light for one’s community. Texas airs Tuesday, May 7 at 9 p.m.
In Chicago, Dulé confronts the dualities of art and activism. Engaging with the Andre Theatre Collective on the South Side, he explores the roots of crime in Black communities through a play written by incarcerated playwrights. Vershawn Sanders Ward, through Red Clay Dance, addresses issues like food inequality, while Bassel Almadani uses music to raise awareness about the Syrian civil war and refugee crisis. Chicago airs Tuesday, May 14 at 9 p.m.