Our History
60+ Years of African American Theatre in the Heart of Berkeley
Where It All Began
In the late 1950s, two young newly married school teachers in Vicksburg, Mississippi set out on a mission: to teach their students their history through the works of Black playwrights and Black artists.
That mission followed them west to Berkeley, California, where in 1964 they founded the Black Repertory Group — a space dedicated to the Black experience, Black excellence, and the transformative power of theatre.
More than six decades later, BRG stands as the oldest African American theatrical organization of its kind in the nation, a cornerstone of South Berkeley, and a cultural gem of the Bay Area.
Milestones
Founded
Black Repertory Group established in Berkeley, CA by Dr. Mona Vaughn Scott and her husband.
Growth & Recognition
BRG expands programming, launches youth training, and becomes a cornerstone of South Berkeley's cultural life.
National Profile
Alumni including Whoopi Goldberg and Danny Glover rise to national prominence, putting BRG on the map.
Community Anchor
BRG deepens its community outreach, adding classes, workshops, and underserved-community ticket programs.
Expanding the Arts
New programs in film, music, spoken word, and costume design broaden BRG's reach and impact.
New Generations
Youth programs flourish; alumni Kehlani and others carry the BRG legacy into a new era.
60th Anniversary Season
BRG celebrates six decades with the landmark 64th Mainstage Season and a new digital presence.
The Legacy Continues
Great writers like MacArthur Genius Ishmael Reed, movie producer David E. Talbert, comedian Paul Mooney, poets Mari Evans and Moms Mabley, comedian Katt Williams, and composers Carman Moore and Herb Geller have all graced BRG's stages.
BRG remains primarily a volunteer organization — as it has been since its inception — sustained by the passion of its community and the generosity of its supporters.
Join us as we continue our legacy of diversity, talent, and cultural excellence.
"The theater is used as a means to uplift the individual and in turn, uplift the community."
— Dr. Mona Vaughn Scott, Founder
Support the Legacy
Your donation helps keep this historic theatre alive for the next generation.
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