African Continuum Theatre is the only professional black theatre company in Washington, DC. It was conceived in 1989 as a Coalition formed to assist the various small black community theatres improve the quality and visibility of their work. In 1995, the Coalition transitioned into a theatre company whose primary mission was to produce professional caliber plays for the general community that would entertain, enlighten and educate from an African American perspective.
In its fourteen seasons, African Continuum Theatre has produced over 30 productions. Its plays have included such time tested favorites as Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun, and James Baldwin’s Amen Corner. Additionally the Company has produced many award winning premieres by new African American playwrights, including Jennifer L. Nelson’s award winning Torn from the Headlines and David Emerson Toney’s Kingdom.
African Continuum Theatre has received numerous forms of recognition, including 16 Helen Hayes Awards nominations, 3 Helen Hayes Awards, the Washington Post Award for Distinguished Service to the Community, a Mayor’s Arts Award, and DC Theatre Scene Audience Choice Awards.
"I looked at the new brochures for the Deanwood and Civil Rights Heritage Trails. I am always astonished and amazed at the work you do and the quality of it. Beautiful."