Wayne State University alumnus, Ruben Santiago-Hudson will visit campus on Tuesday September 17 to meet students and talk about his considerable show business experience. Santiago-Hudson earned an M.F.A. at Wayne State University in Theatre in 1982. He is currently in Michigan to perform his critically acclaimed one-man production, Lackawana Blues.

Santiago-Hudson, a Tony-winning actor (August Wilson's Seven Guitars) made his play writing debut with Lackawana Blues, which embodies more than 20 real-life characters. Lackawanna Blues is a touching, sentimental journey through the playwright-performer's unorthodox upbringing, and is a lyrical tribute to the woman who reared Santiago-Hudson in the upstate New York burg of Lackawana. The show has earned both an Obie Award as well as a Drama Desk Award nomination.

His stage, television and screen experience is considerable. Santiago-Hudson originated the role of Buddy Bolden in Jelly's Last Jam on Broadway. Films credits include Coming To America and Shaft among many others. He has also appeared in many television shows, among them are Law and Order, Third Watch, The West Wing, Touched by an Angel, and NYPD Blue.

During his one day stay, Santiago-Hudson will tour campus and meet with graduate students in the Hilberry rehearsal room located in Old Main at 11:00 AM, and at 2:00 PM with undergraduate students in the Studio Theatre, downstairs from the Hilberry Theatre located on Cass Ave. His appearances on the campus of Wayne State University are free and open to the public.

Lackawana Blues will be performed at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo September 19-22. Tickets can be purchased through the Western Michigan University box office at 269-387-6222.