Citizens Live at The Wylie to hold special preview show before official grand opening

PITTSBURGH — A new concert venue in Pittsburgh’s Hill District will welcome music fans for a special preview show on Monday, Sept. 28. The event, titled “Soundcheck on Wylie Avenue,” will be headlined by Donnie Iris & The Cruisers.

The preview performance at Citizens Live at The Wylie offers attendees an early look inside the venue before its official opening performance on Oct. 1.

The preview event will run from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. In addition to Donnie Iris & The Cruisers, the performance lineup includes NASH.V.ILL featuring Byron Nash, as well as the TITLE TOWN Soul & Funk Party with J. Malls, Gordy G and Buscrates.

Designed with a 4,000-person capacity, Citizens Live at The Wylie drew inspiration from the musical history of Wylie Avenue and the surrounding Hill District. The venue was built to celebrate the neighborhood’s culture while establishing a new location for live performances in Pittsburgh.

“Playing for Pittsburgh has always meant a lot to me. The fans here bring so much energy and it’s a thrill to be part of opening a brand-new venue,” Iris said. “To do it with the Cruisers and support the important work of the August Wilson Cultural Center makes the night even more special. We’re ready to have a great time and bring some rock ‘n’ roll to the Hill.”

Tickets cost $10 and will go on sale Wednesday, Sept. 9, at 12 p.m. on citizensliveatthewylie.com. Face-value proceeds from all ticket sales will directly benefit the August Wilson African American Cultural Center.

Cathryn Calhoun, director of education and community engagement at the center, noted the historic significance of the venue’s location.

“The Hill District’s legacy of music, creativity and storytelling continues to shape Pittsburgh today,” Calhoun said. “We’re grateful to be part of this celebration and to carry that cultural legacy forward.”

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