ARTI Presents: CenterStage 2024

Welcome to the 3rd Annual CenterStage, a free workshop series by ARTI (Africana Repertory Theatre of IU-I), created to empower Black theater in Indianapolis. CenterStage aims to connect aspiring Black artists, from beginners to seasoned professionals, with experienced theater veterans for free. This nurturing environment provides a platform for Black theater, fosters discussions on its past, present, and future. CenterStage equips participants with knowledge and skills through workshops on playwriting, acting, directing, budgeting, and more.

Although this conference is dedicated to enriching the understanding and appreciation of Black theater and its existence, we invite individuals from all backgrounds to join us as we explore the rich history, contemporary expressions, and future possibilities of this vital artform. Our goal is to arm participants with tools and knowledge necessary to create, interpret, and critique Black theater with cultural sensitivity.

The proposed conference schedule for the day is:

8:30-9:00am | Continental Breakfast

9:00-9:15am | Opening Plenary

9:30-10:40am | Breakout Session 1

10:45-12:00 noon | Breakout session 2

12:00 noon-1:00pm | Lunch/Keynote Speaker

1:00-2:15pm | Panel Discussion

2:30-3:00pm | Closing Plenary