Dr. Barbara Ann Teer's National Black Theatre Institute of Action Arts operates from an African context of a spirit culture.

The National Black Theatre (NBT) began in 1968 as a non-profit organization and center for research & development known as the National Black Theatre Workshop Incorporated. NBT has since grown into an institution providing an alternative learning environment offering organizations and individuals, specifically those of African descent born in America, a space to discover, explore, nurture, articulate, address and heal the negative attitudes and emotions blocking freedom of expression. Participants are able to fully express dignity, respect and cultural values of self-love. NBT achieves this purpose by offering workshops, symposia and special events under the Communication Arts program (CAP).