Since 1981, Jubilee Theatre has been the beacon of African-American theater in the Fort Worth area. Our productions not only educate but also spotlight significant themes that add to the cultural landscape and enhance our beloved community of "Cowboys and Culture." From being known as a "gypsy" theater to now being nestled in the heart of Sundance Square, Jubilee is ever vigilant in continuing our mission. Thanks to supporters like the Amon Carter Foundation, Jubilee Theatre continues to thrive in its pursuit of artistic excellence.
However, it was in the 2019-2020 season, that Jubilee Theatre's stance on philanthropic partnerships shifted. Searching for a more symbiotic relationship, Jubilee began listening our benefactors' invaluable advice on creative ways to expand stakeholder support. This paradigm shift has cultivated stronger and renewed relationships which has redefined a new age donor/benefactor friendship.
Pre-COVID, our data shows that Jubilee is tracking to have an increase in patron attendance with an average of 91% of our total ticket inventory being sold per production. Other notable accomplishments are:
For the four consecutive seasons, we have exceeded our single ticket sales goals by an average of 17% per season.
Season subscribers continue to be steady with 516 total subscribers, 8% over our projected season ticket sales goal.
During our 2018-19 season, we have served 17,634 patrons. 87% of these patrons reside within the DFW area.
Jubilee Theatre has one of the most diverse audiences. Our audience consists of African-American 48%, Caucasian 31%, Hispanic/Latino 14%, and Multi-racial 7%.
Jubilee Theatre in the Next 42 Education Initiative: From Behind the Curtains to the Classroom. This initiative is designed to grow our educational and continuing education base to include Historically Black Colleges and Universities' theatre departments in our cast and crew for Season 43. By being able to market and advertise outside of the DFW, we want to grow the next generation of forward-thinking creatives in more than the theatrical arts but also music, dance, and visual art. Our education marketing strategy will include HBCUs in the southern region of the United States, focusing on Texas Southern, Prairie View A & M University, Grambling State University, St. Philip's College, and Dillard University in our first phase of outreach.
The Mission of Jubilee Theatre is to create and produce theatrical works that give voice to the African-American experience. Collaborating with HBCUs allows Jubilee to continue to build on our core principles:
Create and present works that reflect the African-American experience.
Promote and present new works, focusing on musicals and plays.
Find and deliver the universal message in each body of work to attract and involve a diverse and multicultural audience.
Jubilee Theatre's mission is to create and produce theatrical works which give voice to the African-American experience.
~The Next 42 Education Initiative: From Behind the Curtains to the Classroom
*Purpose to expose 4200 underserved students in 3rd-12th grade to theatrical arts and theatre projects.
*Provide 4200 Professional Development Hours to budding actors across Texas
*Adding $42,000 to our operating budget specifically for educational programs
~The Next 42 Years of Jubilee: Cultivating, Nurturing, and Growing the Next Generation of Jubilee
*Purpose: To center Jubilee Theatre as the Black Professional theatre for cultivating original bodies of work for writers, directors, and producers of the African American diaspora.
*Cultivate 4 New bodies of work. Create and Produce 2 original Jubilee Theatre/ Wambui Richardson bodies of work.
*Create 2new streams of income: (Podcast & E-Commerce)
~The Next 42 Capital Campaign
*Purpose: To generate $420K in savings to increase the Jubilee Theatre to a 420-seat facility.
Equity Statement
At Jubilee Theatre, we are committed to fostering an environment that embodies diversity, equity, and inclusion. We believe in the power of the arts to bring people together, and we strive to reflect the rich diversity of our community in everything we do.
Our commitment to equity means:
Representation: We ensure that our programming, staffing, and leadership reflect the diverse voices and experiences of our community, particularly those historically underrepresented in the arts.
Accessibility: We are dedicated to making our theatre accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status, physical ability, or background. This includes providing financial assistance, accommodating diverse needs, and removing barriers to participation.
Education and Advocacy: We educate our audience, staff, and partners on issues of equity and inclusion, advocating for systemic changes within the arts and beyond.
Safe Space: We cultivate a safe, welcoming, and respectful environment where all individuals feel valued and heard. Harassment and discrimination have no place in our theatre.
We acknowledge that achieving equity is an ongoing journey, and we are committed to continuous learning, self-reflection, and action. We invite our community to join us in this essential work, ensuring that Jubilee Theatre remains a beacon of inclusivity and social justice.
View our current participation opportunities.
In-Person Volunteering
Box Office Volunteers
Jubilee Theatre
Ongoing opportunity
In-Person Event
Season 43 Flex Passes
Jubilee Theatre
Ongoing opportunity
Organization name
Jubilee Theatre
Causes
Arts & Humanities
Operating Budget
$100,000 - $249,999
Counties Served
Dallas, Denton, Tarrant
BIPOC Serving
Black or African American
BIPOC Leadership
Both the Executive Director/CEO and Board Chair
Address
506 MAIN ST