Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe

The Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe of Florida, Inc. was founded in December 1999, by local actor, singer, director, and playwright Nate Jacobs. It is the only professional black theater company on Florida’s west coast and one of only two in the state.

Throughout the past decade, WBTT has produced many productions locally and around the state of Florida. The company has gained a reputation for high quality, thought-provoking, and entertaining performances.

Since its inception, WBTT has mentored and inspired many African-American youth through participation in the company’s productions. It has provided a platform for artistic individuals who might not otherwise have had an opportunity to cultivate their interests and talents. A number of the aspiring professional artists trained in the WBTT performing arts program have gone on to work with national and regional companies such as The Black Theatre Troupe, Phoenix Arizona; The Cumberland County Playhouse, Crossville, Tennessee; Florida Studio Theatre, Sarasota, Florida; The Asolo Rep, Sarasota, Florida; Stage Door Theatre, Coral Springs, Florida; and Mad River Theatre, West Liberty, Ohio.

In addition, the company has provided a springboard for national and international careers, such as: Teresa Stanley, a featured cast member of The Color Purple on Broadway and the national tour of Rock of Ages, and Apphia Campbell, a professional performer and teacher in Shanghai. In 2010, 13-year-old Troupe member Chris Eisenberg ma