In the past year, Plowshares expanded its leadership to include newly appointed managing director Scott Norman and entered into a discussion with the community about the role of the theatre.

"We've been talking and listening to our most loyal patrons and supporters, and our new season is going to reflect that," Norman said in a statement. "These productions will exhibit what people have told us they most want to see: thought-provoking, controversial subjects about African Americans, presented by Detroit's best talent."

The theme of the season, "Celebrating the Black Woman," is reflected by plays that focus on the role of women in developing strong African-American communities and families.

The Divas Project, developed by Gary Anderson, will run Feb. 15-March 10. The musical revue, according to Plowshares, "feature the songs and stylings of some of America's greatest female singers."

Wilson's Gem of the Ocean will follow with performances running April 19-May 5. Here's how it's described: "Citizen Barlow is seeking help. Desperate, he breaks into the home of Aunt Ester Tyler, a 287-year-old woman, who is a keeper of tradition and a renowned cleanser of souls. Citizen needs Aunt Ester to erase the guilt and shame eating at him. But can she?" Diamond's Stick Fly, which was recently seen on Broadway and nominated for a 2012 Outer Critics Circle Award for Outstanding New Broadway Play, will run June 14-July 7. Stick Fly is described as "a poignant, bittersweet story of a modern African-American family who struggles as long-held secrets unravel over a summer weekend."

Based in Detroit and founded in 1989 by artistic director Gary Anderson, Plowshares Theatre Company, entering its 23rd season, is Michigan's longest-lasting professional African-American theatre company.

For more information, call (313) 744-3181 or visit Plowshares.org.