Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Cultural Performing Arts in Harlem
Founded in 1964 by visionary playwright Roger Furman, New Heritage Theatre Group stands as New York State's oldest Black nonprofit theater company. Our legacy spans six decades of producing transformative works that amplify underrepresented voices through theater, dance, music, and film. Under the leadership of Executive Producer Voza Rivers and Executive Artistic Director Jamal Joseph, we have expanded our mission to cultivate emerging artists while maintaining our commitment to social justice storytelling. Our productions reflect the historical and cultural narratives of African and Latino communities globally, earning recognition from prestigious institutions like the United Nations and NAACP.As stewards of Harlem's artistic heritage, we bridge generations through youth programs like IMPACT Repertory Theatre and international collaborations that showcase our community's creative excellence. With a board honored by Grammy, Emmy, and Tony accolades, we continue to innovate while upholding core values of accessibility, integrity, and cultural empowerment.
Services
Theater Productions
Youth Arts Programs
Film Screenings
Cultural Events
Community Workshops
International Collaborations
Arts Education
Documentary Films
Harlem Heritage Promotion
Social Justice Initiatives
Details
- Year established: 1964
Highlights and features
- We offer 60+ years of cultural storytelling expertise rooted in Harlem's artistic heritage
- Our leadership includes United Nations Peace Award recipients and Grammy-nominated producers
- We provide youth development through IMPACT Repertory Theatre's leadership training programs
- We maintain international artistic partnerships across six continents for global cultural exchange
- Our productions have earned recognition from Tony, Emmy, and NAACP award committees
Associations and certifications
- 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
What people say
Cultural treasure
Youth empowerment
Historic significance
Artistic excellence
Community connection
Services
Theater Productions
We create powerful stage productions that explore African and Latino cultural experiences. Our works combine historical narratives with contemporary social issues, featuring both emerging and veteran artists. These performances serve as platforms for community dialogue and cultural preservation.
Youth Arts Programs
Our IMPACT Repertory Theatre develops young artists through comprehensive training in performance arts and leadership. The program combines technical skill development with character building, preparing youth to become cultural ambassadors and community leaders through creative expression.
Cultural Preservation
We document and celebrate Harlem's living history through multimedia projects and community initiatives. Our efforts include archival work, oral history collection, and cultural campaigns that position Harlem as a premier arts destination for domestic and international visitors.
International Collaborations
We facilitate cross-cultural exchanges with artists from six continents through co-productions and international festivals. These partnerships create opportunities for cultural dialogue, artistic innovation, and global recognition of Harlem's artistic influence in music, dance, and theater.
Social Justice Storytelling
Our productions use the arts as a platform for social change, addressing systemic inequalities and community challenges. Through documentary theater and issue-based performances, we amplify marginalized voices and promote dialogue about racial equity and cultural empowerment.
People
Voza Rivers
Executive Producer & Global Arts Impressario
Award-winning producer with international acclaim for advancing arts and culture. Recipient of United Nations Peace Award and NAACP Lifetime Achievement honors. Has produced projects across five continents.
Jamal Joseph
Executive Artistic Director
Multi-award-winning filmmaker and educator with HBO, Starz, and PBS credits. Former Black Panther leader turned arts activist. Academy Award-nominated for songwriting in 'Raise It Up'.
Catrina Prioleau
Executive Director
Develops innovative education and social justice programs. Created award-winning initiatives for NYC Department of Probation and Carnegie Hall partnerships. Advocate for arts-based community development.
Temple-Jene Fleming
Operations Manager
Seasoned administrator with experience in government and private sector leadership. Former Chief of Staff to Congressman Charles Rangel. Focuses on operational excellence and youth mentorship.
Ali Bangura
Chief Financial Officer
Certified CPA with 24 years of financial expertise. Manages accounting operations for nonprofit and corporate entities. Holds New York State CPA license and business administration degree.
Questions
What type of productions does New Heritage Theatre Group present?
We produce theater, dance, music, and film works that highlight African and Latino cultural narratives, including social justice themes and historical storytelling.
How can I support New Heritage Theatre Group?
Support through tax-deductible donations via our website, QR code contributions, or by attending fundraising events and performances.
Do you offer youth arts programs?
Yes, our IMPACT Repertory Theatre provides youth with arts training, leadership development, and performance opportunities in Harlem and beyond.
Are your performances accessible to the public?
We offer affordable ticket options and community-focused events, with locations in Harlem and partner venues across New York City.
What is your organization's cultural focus?
We specialize in African and Latino diaspora narratives, preserving Harlem's artistic heritage while promoting global cultural exchange.
How do you engage with the Harlem community?
Through local productions, educational partnerships, cultural preservation initiatives, and our Harlem Heritage Now marketing campaign.
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