WEDU, WBTT partner to tell story of local theatre company
WEDU PBS and Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe (WBTT) are working together on an original documentary that will tell the story of WBTT and its charismatic Founder and Artistic Director, Nate Jacobs, and highlight its quest for and impact on inclusion and diversity in the arts in our region.
In 1999, actor and playwright Nate Jacobs founded WBTT, establishing the unique dramatic company to present and explore the African-American experience. The documentary will examine Jacobs’ past, including his time at the Westcoast Center for Human Development and his deeply influential relationship with school founder and mentor Dr. Henry Porter, the history, achievements and experiences of the Troupe and some of its standout artists, and explore Jacobs’ vision for the future.
Filming began August 26th for the documentary, which is scheduled to premiere on WEDU PBS in December 2019. A behind-the-scenes look at the documentary – to be presented as a “WEDU Arts Plus” segment – will premiere in the fall of next year.
WEDU is West Central Florida’s PBS station, reaching 16 counties through media platforms including on-air programming and online experiences that broaden horizons, transport and transform, and open gateways to new ideas and new worlds.
About WBTT
The mission of Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe is to produce professional theatre that promotes and celebrates the African-American experience, to attract diverse audiences, to support and develop African-American artists, and to build the self-esteem of African-American youth. For more information, go to westcoastblacktheatre.org.
