Our mission
Our mission is to integrate artists of color and women into the mainstream of American theater by training artists for the profession and by presenting plays by writers of color and women to integrated, multicultural audiences. These plays evoke the truth through beautiful and artistic re-creations of ourselves.
“Diversity is essential not only for fairness but also because we are enriched as a people by our differences.”
Woodie King Jr
Our history
A Legacy of Representation and Excellence
For more than five decades, New Federal Theatre (NFT) has been a cultural institution dedicated to the representation of Black and BIPOC artists in American theater. Founded in 1970 by Woodie King Jr., during the Black Arts Movement, NFT became a trailblazer in amplifying the stories of marginalized communities on stage. NFT is a movement that transformed the landscape of American storytelling.
Born from the Black Arts Movement
NFT was founded as a direct response to the lack of representation for Black artists in mainstream theater. Woodie King Jr.’s vision was to create a space where the Black community could see their lives and experiences reflected on stage.
A Platform for Groundbreaking Works
NFT’s early productions included seminal works like Black Girl by J.E. Franklin and For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide/When the Rainbow is Enuf by Ntozake Shange. These productions were more than just theatrical performances—they were a platform for social change, giving voice to experiences long silenced in the theater world.
Nurturing the Future of Black Excellence in Theater
NFT has long served as a launchpad for emerging talent. Legendary actors and directors such as Denzel Washington, Chadwick Boseman, Debbie Allen, and Phylicia Rashad all honed their craft on NFT’s stages. These artists went on to influence American and global culture, continuing the legacy of excellence that NFT embodies.
The theater’s workshops and training programs provide not only artistic development but also a nurturing environment where emerging artists of color can find their voices and carve out successful careers.
An Inclusive Community Space
NFT is a hub for community engagement. It has always been a place where artists, activists, and audiences can come together to explore cultural heritage and celebrate diverse perspectives. The theater’s deep commitment to fostering connections and engaging its community is at the heart of its long-term impact.
Looking Toward the Future
At NFT, we believe that theater is not only an art form but also a powerful tool for activism, community-building, and personal expression. Join us as we continue this journey—where everyone belongs, and every story matters.