Black Repertory Group
About
Nation's Oldest African American Theatrical Organization
Founded in 1964, Black Repertory Group is the oldest African American theatrical organization of its kind in the nation. The cultural arts center supports kids and teens through performing-arts classes plus the TACE youth-development program inside its 250-seat theater complex.
Youth Programs Through Performing Arts
Programming combines stage work, costume design, and creative-arts approaches to academic learning. Programs include:
- Youth summer performance theatrical day camp
- Year-round youth classes
- TACE program (math, science, English through dance, video, and choral activities)
- New Arts one-act plays by local playwrights
- Costume design classes
- Youth employment training collaborations
What's Included
- 250-seat theater auditorium with adjoining dressing rooms
- Exhibition lobby, courtyard, and rehearsal space
- Faculty and mentors connected to the Black theatrical tradition (alumni include Whoopi Goldberg, Danny Glover, Maya Angelou)
- Cross-disciplinary teaching that uses performance as academic on-ramp
Experience
The organization's six-decade history makes the building itself an artifact - kids work inside a space where notable Black performers got their start. The TACE program is unusual in its premise that performance arts can teach math and science, and its longevity suggests the approach has staying power.