MISSION: To produce professional theatre that promotes and celebrates African American history and experience, engages a broad base of patrons and audiences, supports the development of a dynamic group of aspiring artists and builds self-esteem in youth of color.

ABOUT US

Cause: Arts & Culture

• Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe was established in 1999 by founder and artistic director Nate Jacobs. From the organization’s beginnings, education was a primary focus.
• Working alongside established professionals, young artists have the chance to showcase their talents in some of WBTT’s mainstage productions, such as this coming season’s original holiday show, Joyful! Joyful!
• Young performers are also among the artists featured in WBTT’s annual January program, Martin Luther King Jr: Celebrating His Legacy in Spoken Word and Song.
• Alumni of WBTT’s education programs have gone on to professional careers, including Christopher Eisenberg—better known as Chris Louis of the band Next Town Down.
• Jazzlinks, WBTT’s touring education program presenting Black history through musical and dramatic performances, gets high marks from high school students and teachers in Sarasota and Manatee counties and beyond.

Mentoring youth and bringing diversity to the arts. 

As one of only three professional Black theatre companies in Florida and the only one on Florida’s west coast, Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe has brought a powerful presence of diversity to the region’s cultural landscape. Since its inception, WBTT has mentored and inspired many young African Americans through participation in the company’s productions. It has provided a platform for artistic individuals who might not otherwise have opportunities to cultivate their interests and talents.

Stage of Discovery, a free five-week summer musical theatre intensive program serving minority youth, culminates in a full-scale musical production. The Young Artists Program showcases the talents of emerging performers. Jazzlinks is a touring education program that brings Black history to life for high school students. Rhythm & Tales welcomes elementary students to the theatre for musical fables. The New Playwrights Series presents works by minority playwrights. WBTT Voices is a series of free community forums, inviting the public to dig more deeply into the people and issues that have shaped the African American experience in our country.

We are grateful to the many donors, sponsors and patrons who make these programs possible.

Want to help make a difference? Visit: westcoastblacktheatre.org

Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe
1012 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236
(941) 366-1505
westcoastblacktheatre.org
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