Owning our narratives. Owning our space.

NBT is embarking on a historic major capital redevelopment project that will transform the current property into a 21st-century destination for Black culture through theatre. This redevelopment project will anchor and recapitalize the institution for an even brighter future with a 250-seat flexible temple space and a 99-seat studio theater.

By creating the space to nurture, develop, train and produce Black artists’ unflinching truth, we can course correct and shape the cultural discourse while healing our community in profound ways; recognizing that storytelling is the most powerful medium for personal, social, cultural and systemic change.

Our new multi-disciplinary cultural arts facility at 2031 National Black Theatre Way will sit in a recently-rezoned Special Arts District in East Harlem, New York. NBT will occupy 25,000 square feet of space across the ground floor, basement, 3rd, 4th and 5th floors of a 21-story residential, commercial, and cultural mixed-use development.

The high-caliber facilities will be easily accessible for all New Yorkers and visitors, boasting multiple nearby subway transit options, including the A, B, C, D, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 trains, several bus lines, as well as Metro- North commuter rail. NBT is a part of the revival of an important cultural corridor that is well underway, resolidifying Harlem as an important arts and culture destination.

NBT’s environments encourage creativity, inspire ideation, and allow for spiritual reflection.
We carefully considered light, sound, and materials to create spaces that invite a sense of awe, wonder, and
serenity.

Our intention: to inspire meaningful moments of connection and transcendence.
Our belief: thoughtful design can lead to holistic well-being.

Natural light, flowing lines, organic materials, water features, and the use of affirmational text offer respite for the mind and body. Our intention: to create open, balanced, and harmonious spaces that help reduce stress
and have a healing effect on the cellular level. Our goal: to use colors, textures, and acoustics to create an
atmosphere of electric vibrancy.

NBT’s building rises as a major beacon, located at a significant crossroads in Harlem. Our past, present, and future meet in this living land acknowledgment of archival treasures, artist programs, and educational opportunities.

We respectfully acknowledge that the land upon which the National Black Theatre building stands in Harlem, New York City, is located on the traditional territory of the Lenape people. We honor their enduring legacy, culture, and connection to these lands.

We also acknowledge the significant contributions the Black and Latin communities have made and continue to make to the vibrant and diverse history of Harlem and New York City. The resilience, creativity, and strength of these communities have profoundly shaped this neighborhood and continue to be a source of inspiration.

As we gather in this space, we recognize and respect the cultural heritage and ongoing erasure of Indigenous, Black, and Latine people. We commit ourselves to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment that honors their past, present, and future contributions to this community.