Born more than 100 years ago, orator, writer, thinker and abolitionist Frederick Douglass presented powerful ideas on race, gender equality and personal freedom. Actor Roger Guenveur Smith draws on Douglass’ words for his hard-hitting show Frederick Douglass Now. In this striking solo piece, the thespian seen in Spike Lee’s Do the Right Thing combines original text, spoken-word poetry and music to illuminate the state of race in the United States. Known for his examinations of historical figures, Smith has previously developed and performed works inspired by Black Panther Party cofounder Huey P. Newton and police-brutality victim Rodney King.

Price: $19-35.