#United States #Los Angeles #Gilead Sciences #WACO Theater Center #Still Here

WACO Theater Center's 'Still Here Live Experience'

In an extraordinary blend of art and social advocacy, the WACO (Where Art Can Occur) Theater Center announces the 'Still Here Live Experience', scheduled for September 25 to 28, 2025, in Los Angeles. Backed by Gilead Sciences, Inc., this innovative project aims to highlight the complex experiences of Black women living with HIV/AIDS, all within the comforting and familiar environment of a working hair salon.

The 'Still Here Live Experience' is an immersive installation and performance that stems from WACO’s mission to use the arts as a platform for empowerment and community dialogue, particularly surrounding critical issues that impact everyday people. WACO’s Executive Director, Shay Wafer, emphatically states, “Storytelling is an important piece of our legacy at WACO. This live experience is designed to connect and inspire people to create social impact.”

A Unique Venue for Dialogue and Art

The foundation of this project lies in the reimagining of hair salons, traditionally a sanctuary for Black women, as both an art gallery and a theater. The installation portion engages visitors through exhibits cleverly integrated within hair dryers and shampoo bowls, showcasing new works from celebrated talent including Ashlei Dabney-Griffin, a renowned Emmy Award-winning producer, visual artist YoYo Lander, and Tony Award-winning wig designer Nikiya Mathis.

The performance segment will feature a cast of dynamic acts, including Marinda Anderson, Neverending Nina, Milan Reneau, Jude Tibeau, and Akilah A. Walker, with choreography led by Roxi Victorian. The costumes—reflecting deep heritage and style—are designed by veteran Ceci, and the technical direction is entrusted to Luna Lux.

Addressing HIV Within the Black Community

Despite the general improvement in HIV diagnoses across various demographics, statistics reveal a troubling reality for Black women. Recent CDC data indicates that in 2023, they accounted for 50% of HIV diagnoses while representing only 13% of the female population, a staggering figure that highlights the ongoing health disparities faced by this community.

Tina Knowles, Co-Founder and Artistic Director of WACO, expresses a personal connection to the cause, recounting, “My nephew Johnny passed away from this disease. Had he been diagnosed just a few years later, he might still be with us today.” Her dedication to shedding light on these stories underlines the necessity of honest and open conversations regarding HIV, taboos that often silence those directly affected.

Experience the 'Still Here Live Experience'

The central aim of the 'Still Here Live Experience' is to challenge overarching societal assumptions while amplifying the voices of those impacted by HIV. By creating a space where their narratives take center stage, attendees are encouraged to reflect, connect, and gain a greater understanding of the ongoing healthcare challenges faced by Black women.

Event Logistics

• - Installation Experience (Free)

- Thursday: 10 AM – 4 PM
- Friday to Sunday: 10 AM – 12 PM

• - Performance Experience (Ticketed)

- Duration: Approx. 1 hour
- Thursday: 5 PM & 8 PM
- Friday to Sunday: 1 PM, 4 PM & 8 PM
- Tickets: $15, available at wacotheatercenter.com/stillhere

This pioneering event not only serves as an artistic endeavor but also as a crucial platform for dialogue, addressing the stigma and assumptions surrounding HIV in the Black community. By centering their stories, WACO Theater Center hopes to foster understanding and advocacy.

About WACO Theater Center

WACO Theater Center is a nonprofit organization committed to uplifting Black narratives and arts in Los Angeles. By facilitating artistic expression through performance and visual arts, WACO aims to inspire and connect communities. From 2026, WACO will co-manage the Vision Theatre Performing Arts Center in Leimert Park alongside the City of Los Angeles, expanding their mission further.