The National Black Theatre: Institute for Action Arts

The National Black Theatre: Institute for Action Arts NBT's core mission remains the same today as it was at the time of its founding, to produce transfor
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NATIONAL BLACK THEATRE INC- Founded by visionary Dr. Barbara Ann Teer in 1968, the National Black Theatre (NBT) has pioneered “the healing art of black theatre as an instrument for wholeness in urban communities where entrepreneurial artists of African descent live and work." NBT’s own original productions have toured the USA, Caribbean, Central America, Africa, Asia and has performed in venues th

roughout New York City, such as The Apollo Theatre, Lincoln Center and the Beacon Theatre. NBT performances attract audiences of over 90,000 each year, more than any other African-‐American community based Theatre company in NYC. To date, NBT has won over 45 AUDELCO Black Theatre Excellence Awards, produced over 300 productions, and countless workshops, courses and community events.

06/19/2026

Today, on Juneteenth, we honor the ancestors whose courage carried us here and celebrate the legacy and creativity that still live within us.

May we cherish the stories, traditions, and communities that have sustained us. May we celebrate the beauty of Black life in all its expressions.

Black and beautiful. Black and blessed. Black and so much more.

🕺🏾: IG @ lyriklondon, @ ponderthewonder, @ heisjavon

🎶: Theresa the songbird

06/18/2026

Happy Heavenly Birthday, Dr. Teer!

Before there was a roadmap, Dr. Barbara Ann Teer created one. Dr. Teer imagined a world where Black artists could tell our stories on our own terms and where art could awaken the soul. What began as a bold vision in Harlem became a movement that continues to shape generations of artists, thinkers, and dreamers.

Today, we celebrate the founder whose imagination became an institution, whose teachings became a technology, and whose legacy remains our North Star.

May we continue to build on what she believed was possible. Affirm your support by donating now to fortify NBT’s commitment to Black artistry and innovation. No amount is too big or small, and every gift is meaningful! Link in Bio!

06/17/2026

There is a difference between what is available to you and what is aligned for you. Listen closely to what brings you alive, what deepens your purpose, and what feels true in your bones.

🗣: Andre Deshields

Next Monday, join us for an in-progress theatrical exploration inspired by artist Amy Sherald’s acclaimed body of work, ...
06/15/2026

Next Monday, join us for an in-progress theatrical exploration inspired by artist Amy Sherald’s acclaimed body of work, originally exhibited as ‘American Sublime’ at major US museums, as it takes shape for the stage. The evening will feature live performance excerpts alongside a conversation with Sherald and director Zhailon Levingston, joined by additional collaborating artists, reflecting on the creative process and the evolution of Sherald’s work for the stage. Participants include James Ijames, Niles Luther, and Anna Deavere Smith.

8:00 PM Monday, June 22, 2026
The Delacorte Theater - 81 Central Park W, New York, NY 10024

*Tickets will be made available on the date of the performance via the line at The Delacorte, evening Standby at The Delacorte, digital lottery with TodayTix, and an in-person lottery at The Public.*

06/15/2026

Starting this week with the words of National Black Theatre founder Dr. Barbara Ann Teer.

Embrace that which makes you unique and different. You are exactly who you are meant to be.

06/12/2026

THE PECULIAR PATRIOT CLOSES THIS WEEKEND!

For 25 years, Liza Jessie Peterson’s groundbreaking one-woman show has challenged audiences to confront the devastating human impact of mass incarceration in America. Come, witness this landmark production for its final run and be a part of its legacy.

JUNE 12 - Unpacking The Complex: The Politics Of Policy with DeRay McKesson & Marlon Peterson

JUNE 13 - Unpacking The Complex: Naming Next Steps with Alethea Taylor & Judge Raymond Bruce

JUNE 14 - Liza Jessie Peterson, Lena Waithe, and Lala Anthony.

Get Tickets Here: https://bit.ly/4bmtzFH

As The Peculiar Patriot approaches its final performances, tomorrow night’s conversation asks the question:Where do we g...
06/12/2026

As The Peculiar Patriot approaches its final performances, tomorrow night’s conversation asks the question:

Where do we go from here?

Join Alethea Taylor and Judge Raymond Bruce following the performance for a live discussion on accountability, healing, action, and what audiences carry with them after the lights come up.

Some conversations don’t end when the show does.

Final weekend. Closes June 14. Get Tickets Here: https://bit.ly/4bmtzFH

06/12/2026

From island to island, rhythm carries stories, traditions, and memories that connect us all. 🌴✨

This Caribbean American Heritage Month, we celebrate the dances that travel across oceans and generations, keeping us connected through movement, music, and celebration.

Shout out your country in the comments!

06/11/2026

Part 2 of our annual seasonal conversation exploring our 25/26 Season theme, The Alchemy of Return: Remembering Is a Radical Act, is available to watch (and re-watch) on our YouTube page!

This conversation between Tony Award-winning actor and NBT Board Member, David Alan Grier, and our Chief Executive Officer, Sade Lythcott, covers everything from Black theater legacy, culture, and the origins of our roots.

Head over to YouTube and watch, like, comment, and share with your community.

Watch here: https://bit.ly/4uvwALs

Why do communities stay trapped in systems that need change?Tomorrow night, after The Peculiar Patriot, DeRay McKesson &...
06/11/2026

Why do communities stay trapped in systems that need change?

Tomorrow night, after The Peculiar Patriot, DeRay McKesson & Marlon Peterson join us for a live conversation on policy, protest, accountability, and what real change actually requires.

Who does policy protect?
Who gets ignored?
What happens after awareness?"

Join us for one of the final conversations of the run. Get tickets here: https://bit.ly/4bmtzFH

Address

2031-2033 National Black Theatre Way ( Fifth Avenue Btwn 125/126 St )
New York, NY
10035

Opening Hours

Monday 10am - 6pm
Tuesday 10am - 6pm
Wednesday 10am - 10pm
Thursday 10am - 6pm
Friday 10am - 11pm
Saturday 10am - 6pm
Sunday 10am - 6pm

Telephone

+12127223800

Website

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