CHARITY SPOTLIGHT {giving back}
THE MAKING OF A MOVEMENT The Black Theatre Troupe is doing some of the communityâs most vital theater By Karen Werner
THE STORY The Black Theatre Troupe began as a way to alleviate some of the racial tensions of the late 1960s and early 70s that were brewing in most major U.S. cities. In an effort to serve the community, Helen K. Mason, a supervisor in the City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department, was asked to design and implement a program that might head off the riots that had plagued other cities. 42âFRONTDOORS MEDIA | FEBRUARY 2020
What started as a series of open-door ârap sessionsâ for minorities blossomed into an inclusive theater troupe that has gone on to play an essential role in Phoenixâs development. âIt was formed on a platform of activism and a belief that it was important to share the African-American experience,â said David Hemphill, the executive director of Black Theatre Troupe. âIt is also a notable bridge to unite all cultures through stories â all of the companyâs productions have universal themes and appeal.â
