[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 156 (Friday, September 10, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E963]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           CELEBRATING THE BLACK THEATRE TROUPE'S 50TH SEASON

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                           HON. RUBEN GALLEGO

                               of arizona

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 10, 2021

  Mr. GALLEGO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate The Black 
Theatre Troupe's 50th season. Founded in 1970 by civil rights activist 
Helen K. Mason, this Phoenix troupe is one of the oldest continuously 
operating Black theater companies in the United States. Despite having 
to push back their 50th anniversary season by a year due to COVID-19, 
the show will go on as The Black Theatre Troupe returns to the stage 
this month.
  The Black Theatre Troupe was born of the need to create a space for 
Black voices to be heard in the Southwest. Today, it has grown into a 
nationally recognized, award-winning theater company that continues to 
tackle issues of racism, prejudice, and discrimination. Fifty years 
later, The Black Theatre Troupe remains a vital platform for 
illuminating the Black experience and culture, provides unique 
opportunities for multiethnic and underserved artists to train and 
perform, and educates and entertains a diverse audience.
  Throughout its history, The Black Theatre Troupe has faced many 
challenges--lack of funding, a fire that destroyed its stage, and even 
a global health pandemic--but thanks to the tenacity and enthusiasm of 
its members and supporters, the Troupe has continued to grow and 
thrive. I'd like to congratulate The Black Theatre Troupe on 50 seasons 
and wish them all the best for 50 more.

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