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Bushfire Theatre of Performing Arts

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We are dedicated to advancing the work of African-American playwrights, professional/non-professional actors, directors, and other theatre personnel. In addition to our season of shows, we offer classes & workshops for youth and adults.

Join Us Today

Join Our Ensemble

Come See Our Upcoming Shows
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The Meeting

By Jeff Stetson

Directed by Al Simpkins

They met only once, and the content of the conversation went with them to their graves. Jeff Stetson probes the possibilities in this provocative dialogue between Malcolm X and Martin Luther King, Jr.

Sept. 24 – Sept. 29, 2024
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Insects and Giants

By Clyde Santana

Directed by Al Simpkins

On the eve of his retirement, a frustrated undercover officer, reflecting on
some of his past experiences, questions his decision to retire and return to
his family and his artistic life or continue to work undercover for his former
bigoted supervisor.

Apr. 29, 2025 - May 4, 2025

COMING SOON

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An Evening with Josephine Baker

By George Adams

Directed by Al Simpkins

The day entertainer and French war hero, Josephine Baker faces having
her possessions sold in a sheriff sale.

Oct. 22, 2024 - Oct. 27, 2024

COMING SOON

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The Phantom of the 87th Street Playground

By Clyde Santana & Gail Davis

Directed by Al Simpkins

Spirits of the past meet children who cannot reconcile their differences in this enchanting musical fantasy where hope blossoms and dreams never die.

May 27, 2025 – Jun. 8, 2025

COMING SOON

Membership

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Celebrate our 48th anniversary and 47th season of presenting plays by becoming a member today!

As we approach our 50th season of presenting plays that depict the African American experience, we invite you to become a member. Your membership support will enable us to continue presenting quality plays to our community.

Your membership will allow us to continue classes in acting, directing and playwriting for adults and children in the community. We mount plays on our main-stage with an auditorium that seats 433 and on our three adjoining stages in spaces that seat up to sixty where we develop new scripts and present our Puppet Theatre. Your membership represents an investment in Bushfire Theatre and the opportunity for us to continue for the next 50 years.
Become a Member for $65 a Year
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Free Tickets

One ticket to all four main-stage plays

Savings
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​Additional tickets for family/friends at a reduced rate​

Venue Space
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​Rental space for parties at a reduced rate

Discover Playwriting with Us

Langston Hughes Playwright's Workshop

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Coming Soon
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Podcast

  • Explore the history of Bushfire Theatre of Performing Arts, one of America's oldest African-American theatre ensembles

  • Hear interviews with African-American playwrights and actors

  • Meet the people behind the Bushfire Ensemble

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Walk of Fame

Come visit the first-ever Walk of Fame dedicated to recognizing outstanding African-American artists of stage, screen & television, located just outside our theatre at 224 S 52nd St, Philadelphia, PA.

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Lloyd Richards

Broadway Director & Former Dean, Yale School of Drama

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