BLACK THEATRE TROUPE'S 57TH SEASON EXPLORES JUSTICE, JOY, HISTORY, AND THE POWER OF THE HUMAN SPIRIT
Flex Pass packages available now with Early Bird pricing through July 15 and savings of up to $48
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Entering its 57th Season, Black Theatre Troupe (BTT) continues its mission of bringing powerful African American stories to Arizona audiences through a compelling lineup of productions that celebrate resilience, faith, culture, community, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.
The 2026-2027 Season features a gripping drama inspired by real-life stories of wrongful conviction, a groundbreaking Broadway musical, the return of a beloved holiday tradition, a sweeping journey through Black history, and an inspiring musical celebrating the remarkable legacy of the Fisk Jubilee Singers.
Flex Pass packages are on sale now, offering audiences the flexibility to enjoy the season on their own schedule while taking advantage of Early Bird savings through July 15. Single tickets will go on sale on July 16 at 10 am.
For information about Flex Passes, performance schedules, and tickets, visit
blacktheatretroupe.org or call 602-258-8128.
"Our 57th Season reflects the resilience, faith, humor, creativity, and determination that have shaped the African American experience," said David Hemphill, Executive Director of Black Theatre Troupe. "Whether audiences join us for one production or the entire season, these stories remind us where we've been, celebrate who we are, and challenge us to imagine what's possible for the future."
THE EXONERATED
By Jessica Blank & Erik Jensen
September 11 - 27, 2026
Directed by Matthew Wiener
Based on the true stories of six wrongfully convicted people, The Exonerated is a powerful examination of justice, resilience, and hope. Drawn from court transcripts and personal accounts, this acclaimed drama reveals the human cost of wrongful convictions while celebrating the extraordinary strength of those who survived them.
DON'T BOTHER ME, I CAN'T COPE
Book, Music & Lyrics by Micki Grant
October 23 - November 8, 2026
Directed and Choreographed by Patdro Harris
Musical Direction by Brenda Hankins
Musical Arrangements by Joey Leyva
A groundbreaking Broadway hit by Micki Grant, one of the first Black women to write and compose a musical produced on Broadway, Don't Bother Me, I Can't Cope takes audiences on a spirited journey through the joys, challenges, humor, and heartaches of everyday Black life. Filled with unforgettable music, it is a joyful celebration of culture, community, and resilience.
BLACK NATIVITY
By Langston Hughes
November 27 - December 6, 2026
Directed by Walter Belcher
A beloved holiday tradition returns to Black Theatre Troupe. Langston Hughes' timeless retelling of the Nativity story comes alive through soul-stirring gospel music, vibrant dance, and powerful storytelling. Filled with faith, hope, and joy, Black Nativity is an uplifting celebration of community and the true spirit of the season.
COLORED PEOPLE'S TIME
By Leslie Lee
February 5 - 21, 2027
Directed by Rachel Finley
Spanning nearly 100 years of African American life, Colored People's Time chronicles the struggles, triumphs, humor, and resilience that shaped generations. Through a series of compelling stories, this moving drama celebrates the courage, determination, and enduring spirit of a people whose legacy continues to inspire.
JUBILEE
By Tazewell Thompson
March 26 - April 11, 2027
Musical Director TBD
Inspired by the remarkable true story of the Fisk Jubilee Singers, Jubilee follows a group of formerly enslaved students who set out to save their struggling school and share the power of spirituals with the world. Filled with soaring music and unforgettable storytelling, this stirring drama celebrates faith, perseverance, and hope.
FLEX PASS PACKAGES ON SALE NOW
Flex Pass packages offer audiences the flexibility to experience Black Theatre Troupe's 57th Season on their own schedule. Patrons may choose from 4-play, 3-play, or 2-play packages and use their tickets in any combination throughout the season. (Excludes Black Nativity.)
Early Bird pricing is available through July 15, with 4-play Flex Passes for $160, 3-play Flex Passes for $126, and 2-play Flex Passes for $90. Flex Pass holders can save up to $48 compared to purchasing individual tickets.
About Black Theatre Troupe
Founded in 1970 by Helen K. Mason, Black Theatre Troupe is one of the nation's longest continuously operating Black theatre companies. Located at the Helen K. Mason Performing Arts Center in downtown Phoenix, BTT is dedicated to producing powerful theatrical works, nurturing diverse artistic talent, and strengthening communities through stories that celebrate the Black experience and our shared humanity.
