Atlanta Black Theatre FestivaL

Recently ranked among the "Top Theatre Festivals to Visit Around the World" by TopTenZilla.com, the  Atlanta Black Theatre Festival is the home the nation's largest selection of world-class, Afro-centric theatre under one roof! Whether you're a fan of urban (Tyler Perry) or traditional (August Wilson) theatre, this curated selection will envelop you with entertaining stories until it feels more like a family reunion than an arts festival.  

Our popular Staged Readings features original works from the minds of some of the most  prolific wordsmiths of our time!  Writers have a rare opportunity to test or share original content for live stage and/or digital platforms.  Each reading  gives patrons a rare glimpse into the development process. Staged readings are followed by an audience "talk back" with the opportunity to share feedback! 

CALLING ALL ARTISTS!  It takes more than talent to make it in this industry. Are you looking for an opportunity to network, share industry trends, tips and tricks in a supportive, collaborative environment? Creative Connections for Artists is a just that.  A unique platform that intimately connects aspiring artists with influential entertainment experts, professors, and award-winning professionals. 

Experience our version of "Black Friday"!  Economic viability is a crucial pillar to building community. Our International Vendors' Market and Art Gallery connects you with proprietors that offer a unique selection of visual, fine and wearable art.  Start your holiday shopping early while keeping community based businesses in the "black"!  This event is free and open to the public. Gallery talks require registration (due to limited space).  

Spend one or all four power packed days immersed in an incredible artistic experience. This star studded event closes with a Gala that includes a critically acclaimed performance and tribute to celebrity legends who have  paved the way for the next generation. This red carpet event is immediately followed by the reveal of the Festival Favorite Award winners and a VIP After Glow!  This year's theme: "Black is Beautiful" is perfect for those looking for extraordinary things to do in Atlanta!

The Atlanta Black Theatre Festival is proudly expanding the platform to provide opportunities for self-published authors! We've partnered with Divine Garden Press, LLC a black owned publishing firm to expand and entertain your literary palette by connecting you with community griots. The Author's Cafe will give you an opportunity engage with phenomenal authors who dare to share their stories. The book signings are free and open to the public with registration (due to limited seating).

The Atlanta Black Theatre Festival brings you the best of the fest with  ABTF Encore!  We select your Festival Favorite and bring it back for a full-run.   Dates: TBA

NEW! We're launching the most unique brand of comedy theatre ever seen in Atlanta. The first show premieres on Oct. 6, 2018 during the Atlanta Black Theatre Festival. We guarantee you'll laugh all the way home. 

Common Core Standards come alive at the Atlanta Black Theatre Festival! Thanks to strong pARTnerships with corporations like  PNC Bank, we present curriculum centered, historically themed plays. Each play is presented with a socially responsible message to students in public, private, charter and home schools. 

Reaching our youth... 

We collaborate with universities like South Carolina State and Georgia State, to provide hands on experiences to the next generation of African-American students seeking opportunities in creative careers. 

 The nation's only Afro-centric play festival solely devoted to youth ages 5-12. We're focused on promoting positive images and building dreams through the arts.  Ideal for youth groups, reunions or family fun. This memorable event is filled with high energy and excitement! Date: TBA in 2019

S.T.A.R.T. TEEN CAMP:  A summer art and technology training camp that provides educational and internship training for teens interested in creative careers in theatre and the digital arts (tv, film).  Save the Dates: June 24-28, 2019.