We believe that now is the time to activate our mission to eradicate racism in new ways–both on and beyond the stage.

To dramatically expand the scope of our work and have an even greater impact on our neighborhood, city, and country, we are building the Free to BE Village: an immersive performing arts hub that dismantles bias by cultivating cross-cultural understandings and interpersonal connections. An experiential, community-building project, it embodies the hope embedded in our mission and a bold step toward creating a world in which racism and the harm it causes no longer exists.

Located in the surrounding area of the Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center, the Free to BE Village is a neighborhood revitalization strategy in collaboration with local community partners, businesses, cultural institutions, and civic leaders. The village will include a performing arts education center, film and technology center, affordable artists’ lofts, a restaurant, a literary café, and retail opportunities to invigorate the community’s emotional, cultural, and economic health. 

More details coming soon!