A Word from Wendell Pierce:
“I look forward to an America which will not only steadily raise the standards of artistic accomplishment but also
steadily enlarge cultural opportunities for all our citizens. If art is to nourish the roots of our culture,
society must set the artist free to follow his vision wherever it takes him.” -JFK
When JFK spoke these words in the early 1960's, he could not have known that his vision would pave the way for the emergence of The Classical Theatre of Harlem nearly forty years later.
The award-winning production of The Blacks first drew me to CTH in 2003. With Macbeth and Melvin van Peebles' Ain’t Supposed To Die A Natural Death, I knew that CTH was a rising star. Three plays, three dramatically different theatrical experiences, with one thing in common: all were products of one astonishing and innovative company.
A performance by The Classical Theatre of Harlem is a theatrical experience unlike any other. Each production, from the traditional to new groundbreaking works, is vibrant and electrifying. Productions feature artists of the highest caliber, with educational backgrounds that include Yale, Julliard and NYU. CTH is forging new ground, casting actors of color in non-traditional leading roles and drawing diverse audiences who respond with a palpable outpouring of enthusiasm.
Coming in 2011: Project Classics, Seed by Radha
Blank.
In partnership with the NYC Housing Authority, and a grant from the Theater Subdistrict Council, Project Classics: Theatre in Public Housing brought theatre to an under-served segment of our community. The educational component of Project Classics commenced last Spring with 25 students, working four days a week with CTH teaching artists. Involving and energizing our youth builds self-esteem and respect, paving the way for positive and successful future leaders. The theatrical component commenced last summer with Rahda Blank's play Seed.
We will be bringing back SEED in a full production this fall, but our ambitious and groundbreaking plans cannot become a reality without YOU.
Now, more than any time in our history, the Classical Theatre of Harlem needs your help.
Ticket sales alone do not cover the cost of productions so we turn to loyal supporters, old and new, for your ongoing trust and financial support.
Novelist Chimamanda Adichie reminds us that if our knowledge of another person, culture, country, or continent is limited to only one segment of their "story", such lack of knowledge can lead to critical misunderstandings. The work of CTH is to tell multi-dimensional stories, affirming the belief that each person's story is complex, rich and worthy. CTH’s all-inclusive approach brings us together, enabling us to recognize that our similarities are far more compelling than our differences.
The Classical Theatre of Harlem simply cannot endure without the support of individuals like you!
For those who find donating an economic challenge, you still can make a big difference with a small investment. We ask you to consider making a $10 monthly donation. Your tax-deductible gift will ensure that CTH continues to mount plays that offer magnificent opportunities to artists while providing a place where the classics, theatricality, provocative ideas, and entertainment converge!
Startlingly fresh . CTH reconfirms itself as one of the gutsiest and physically fearless groups around - David Cote, Time Out NY
