(WBTT) was founded in December 1999 as a not-for profit 501(c)(3) organization in Sarasota, Fla., by local actor, singer, director, and playwright Nate Jacobs. It is the only professional black theatre company on Florida’s west coast and one of just three in the state. The mission of Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe (WBTT) is to produce professional theatre that promotes and celebrates African Ameri
can history and experience, engages a broad base of patrons and audiences, supports the development of a dynamic group of aspiring artists, and builds self-esteem in youth of color. Through the years, WBTT has presented a variety of productions locally, around the State of Florida, and as far away as Switzerland and Germany. The company has gained a reputation for high-quality, thought-provoking and electrifying performances, and has received numerous awards and recognitions. WBTT has enjoyed tremendous growth from a grassroots organization to a successful not-for-profit, professional theatre with a five-show season at its own theatre campus. Since its inception, WBTT has mentored and inspired many African American youth through participation in the company’s productions. It has provided a platform for artistic individuals who might not otherwise have had an opportunity to cultivate their interests and talents. A number of the aspiring professional artists trained in the WBTT performing arts program have gone on to work with regional theatre companies around the country, and to perform in the highly selective cruise ship industry. In addition, the company has provided a springboard for national and international careers, with appearances on Broadway and as far away as Shanghai. WBTT has brought a powerful presence of diversity and inclusiveness to the region’s cultural landscape. It has been dubbed the “miracle theatre” because of its unique ability to attract broad-based community support. Other offerings that distinguish the organization include: “WBTT Voices,” community forums in which the public can dig more deeply into the people and issues that have shaped the African American experience in our country; the “Young Artists Program,” through which Troupe members are able to showcase their talents with one-person shows; “Jazzlinks,” which brings history lessons to life for area high school students; "Rhythm & Tales," which offers important life lessons for elementary students through musical fables; the “New Playwrights Series,” for emerging minority playwrights; and “Stage of Discovery,” a free summer musical theatre camp serving minority students. WBTT celebrated the launch of its 20th season with a massive, sold-out celebration in November 2019 at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. The organization recently closed its $8 million “Heart & Soul” capital campaign – reaching a gratifying total of $8.7 million and facilitating renovations on both of its buildings as well as campus upgrades – and opened its now-state-of-the-art theater building in January 2020. When the pandemic put a temporary halt on indoor theatrical productions, the organization pivoted and stayed active and relevant, with numerous virtual, streaming video and outdoor performances and presentations. For 2021-2022, WBTT is thrilled to be back in its theater with a full season of entertainment!
