What is Black Theatre Day?
Launched on the 200th anniversary of the African Grove Theatre (the first known Black professional theatre in the U.S.) on September 17, Black Theatre Day is an annual day of solidarity and service, to celebrate and support 21st century Black theatres in their ongoing efforts to build sustainable, institutional wealth.
How do I celebrate Black Theatre Day?
However you'd love! Here are some official ways The CRAFT Institute encourages you to celebrate:
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Celebrate Black Theatre History: Share its living legacy with your community. Use this Black Theatre Day worksheet with your organizations, students, friends, or institutions!
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Create Special Programming: Dedicate a performance or event to Black Theatre Day.
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Fundraise: Invite your community to donate, volunteer, or attend. Contributions to Black Theatre institutions can also be made before or after Sept 17th.
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Share Your Work: Post your productions, archives & impact. Tag @blacktheatreday + #BlackTheatreDay. Amplify and reshare work from other Black theatres.
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Lift Up Our People: Support Black theatre institutions year round!
Thank you to everyone who celebrated Black Theatre Day 2025. Check out the celebrations on @blacktheatreday and see the events across the country here.
Did you have an event that is not on this list? Let us know at info@thecraftinstitute.org.