Halifax’s 2b theatre company will lead a delegation of African Nova Scotian artists to the International Black Theatre Festival (IBTF).
We want to see African Nova Scotian artists and their works being presented and celebrated at this festival every time it happens, which will help our local stories reach the world. – Jacob Sampson
The biannual IBTF, which takes place this year from July 29 through August 2 in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, attracts over 60,000 attendees. The programming includes more than 120 performances, an international colloquium, a poetry slam, a film festival, various workshops, and awards, as it hosts some of the biggest names in African American performing arts.
The Halifax delegation includes Order of Canada recipient Walter Borden, Kiana Josette, a rising star in the Nova Scotia theatre scene, filmmaker and musician Keke Beats, 2b associate artistic director Jacob Sampson, and 2b artistic director Christian Barry. The delegation will be featured presenters at the international colloquium, providing a platform for promoting artistic works and African Nova Scotian culture.
“This initiative has been in the works for well over a year,” says Sampson. “Five of 2 b’s slate of upcoming shows are being developed and lead by African Nova Scotian artists or are focused on African Nova Scotian stories. The U.S. has the oldest and most established Black theatres on the continent and this festival provides a great opportunity to find new markets for these artists and their shows.”
Barry says the IBTF is an important opportunity to make new connections. “It is 2b’s hope that this is just the beginning of Nova Scotians having a regular presence at this festival,” he says.
“Take a quick look at our history as Black Nova Scotians, and immediately you will see a deep cultural, historical, and sometimes familial connection to this region of the United States,” continues Sampson. “We want to see African Nova Scotian artists and their works being presented and celebrated at this festival every time it happens, which will help our local stories reach the world. Being formally programmed to take part in the colloquium is just the first step.”
2b theatre plans public sharing sessions at its new Arts Hub home at Video Difference on Quinpool Road and a yet-to-be-announced satellite location.
Visit 2btheatre.com for more information.