Barbara Marshall, a graduate of Robert Holland’s Wheatley High School drama classes and competitions, founded the Urban Theatre in 1969. One of her goals was to provide a performance space for urban actors, playwrights, directors and technical staff.
The Urban Theatre’s first production was James Baldwin’s Blues for Mr. Charlie. Reorganized as the Black Arts Center in 1970, they produced plays such as The Sisters and The Lion and the Jewel.
