The "Magic" of eta
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eta is unique in its longevity and legacy as one of the oldest Black-Owned and Operated theatres in America.
Fifty-four years of artistic excellence produced a cadre of career directors, actors, writers, and technicians. If walls could talk, the laughter and tears from decades of hard work and commitment would greet you in the Lobby as you face “The Spirit ETA” installation designed by Dr. Asbura Ford. You would hear Abena Joan Brown bellow from the stage, “We can have anything we want in our community, if we are willing to support it.” Add parents and family cheering as young students bravely took their first stage bows as actors and dancers.
The MAGIC of eta is the artistic and cultural glue it creates for our community.
Abena Joan Brown, with her committed Board of Directors, unapologetically created a home where African and African American theatre artists could thrive, “Smack Dab in the Middle” of the Southside of Chicago.​
“Until Black people decide that they are going to produce, own, keep, and preserve their own, all they want, we will confront the same problems. Why should anyone else do it for you?”
Avery Brooks, Actor
This year's gala theme is "Rebuilding, Elevating New Voices, Celebrating our Alumni."
As eta embarks on its 54th year in existence, we have taken time to reflect on the amazing and substantial legacy of this historic institution of African American culture and the individuals whose long-term contributions built its legacy. This year, we are honoring the following alumni with a prestigious lifetime achievement award to recognize their outstanding creative contributions to the organization.
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This is eta's premiere fundraiser of the year. If you are unable to attend, please consider making a donation.
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​​​Donor support makes productions and community programs possible. Invest in the next 50 years of elevating Black voices with a tax-deductible donation that will:
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☆ Support our performing arts programming and classes
☆ Inspire students through education programs by supporting our Summer Arts program for youth ages 6-13.
☆ Spotlight local artists through our Artist-in-Residency Programs
☆ Support community engagement and events.
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Your donation will contribute to funding:
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☆ General operating expenses
☆ The production season
☆ Discounted tuition for low-income families to attend the Okoro Harold Johnson Academy for the Performing Arts, Useni Perkins Playwright Workshop, and the Abena Joan Brown Summer Camp for the Performing Arts.
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Thank you for making your most generous gift.
Your tax-deductible donation safeguards eta’s future, ensuring that we continue to make great theatre together.
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