The Black Lady Theatre

Founded in 1984 by Judge John L. Phillips Jr., The Black Lady Theatre is a Brooklyn-based cultural organization dedicated to arts, activism, and public scholarship. The Theatre serves as a platform for over 1,200 organizations to build, strengthen, and promote their events and productions — spanning live performances, music festivals, spoken word, and civic programming rooted in African heritage and community uplift. Programming includes the Summer SOULstice Music Festival celebrating African Diaspora music, Lyrikal Baptizm open-mic events, education workshops, health and wellness classes, and community discussion panels. The Black Lady Theatre maintains a commitment to providing a safe space for discussion, exploration, and expression across central Brooklyn and beyond.