The Rochester Bronze Collective* announces the 2026 Annual Bronze Collective Theatre Fest: from Feb. 18-23, 2026. Shows typically run nightly at 7:30 pm. The events are at the MuCCC Theater located at 142 Atlantic Ave., Rochester, NY.
This year's 2026 ANNUAL BRONZE COLLECTIVE THEATRE spans one week and celebrates the 100-year history of Black History Month. It ranges from a documentary to a full-length play with song to hip-hop storytelling, to youth theater, and commemorates the artists who have transitioned in the previous year. Local African American producers showcase variations of African American life through the vehicle of theatrical drama, connecting us to the rich cultural history of our community.
WHAT'S THE 2026 LINEUP?
(All shows begin at 7:30 pm)
Wed., February 18 – NIGHT OF REMEMBERANCE & THE GULL (Staged Reading) by Tara Blau Smollen
Wed., February 18 – NIGHT OF REMEMBERANCE & THE GULL (Staged Reading) by Tara Blau Smollen
1st Night - WED, Feb 18th HONOR, REFLECT, REMEMBER
Often, many artists in the African American community are only remembered at the pinnacle of their careers before their memory fades into obscurity. This reception allows the community to unite and acknowledge those who have transitioned in 2025, locally and nationally. It's a time of libation to HONOR the contributions of those who have transitioned, REFLECT on their contributions to the community, and REMEMBER our connection with these individuals and how their art forms and lives inspired us.
THE GULL BY Tara Blau Smollen (Staged Reading)
A reimagining of Chekhov’s The Seagull set in 1930s Black America
In the summer of 1938, acclaimed Black radio actress Anna Cardin returns to her family’s Martha’s Vineyard home after losing the role of Mammy in Gone With the Wind to Hattie McDaniel. Her arrival stirs long-simmering tensions with her sensitive artist son Conrad, who resents her for prioritizing career over family. Conrad is infatuated with young neighbor Nya, who aspires to be an actress like Anna, but is unaware of the steps needed to make that dream a reality. Sometimes, sacrifices are made for art, love, and survival in an era of limited opportunities for Black artists, exploring whether the grass is really greener on the other side.
The Gull, Tara Blau Smollen crafts a story about family, ambition, and what it means for Black artists to chase their dreams in a world that doesn’t always make room for them. "I was drawn to it because Chekhov’s questions about love, art, and longing felt deeply familiar—and even more urgent when seen through the lives of Black artists in 1938."
The tragedy isn’t falling short. It’s realizing you flew in the wrong direction."
Thurs., February 19 - A WORLD WITHOUT BLACK PEOPLE
By Robert Ricks
Thurs., February 19 - A WORLD WITHOUT BLACK PEOPLE By Robert Ricks
This powerful theatrical adaptation of Philip Emeagwali's story imagines a world stripped of Black innovation. Through compelling youth performances, it reveals how African American inventors shaped modern life - from technology to daily conveniences. A thought-provoking exploration of unrecognized contributions, the play challenges audiences to see history differently and celebrate these vital but often overlooked legacies.
Fri., February 20 - THERE’S A MAN GOING ROUND TAKING NAMES: A PROTEST WITH SONG
by Karen D. Culley (Full Staged Play)
Fri., February 20 - THERE’S A MAN GOING ROUND TAKING NAMES: A PROTEST WITH SONG by Karen D. Culley (Full Staged Play)
There’s A Man Goin’ Round Takin’ Names is a powerful, multi-generational play that weaves Black history from slavery to modern protests through gripping monologues and a dynamic Chorus. Figures like Nat Turner, Ida B. Wells, and modern activists expose systemic oppression, resilience, and the fight for justice—all anchored by the haunting spirit of the title.
Sat, February 21-DOUBLE HEADER A & B: A-100 YEARS OF CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH & FILM on Carter G Woodson & B- PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT
by Lamar the Therapist
Sat, February 21-DOUBLE HEADER A & B: A-100 YEARS OF CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH & FILM on Carter G Woodson & B- PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT by Lamar the Therapist
DOUBLE HEADER A & B: Celebrating 100 Years of Black History Month
A-Film: Carter G Woodson Reflections on Carter G Woodson by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History
The film delves into the life of the architect of Black History Week, the educator known as Carter
B- Public Service Announcement by Lamar the Therapist
In this electrifying one-man show, Lamar the Therapist blends hip-hop storytelling, raw monologue, and original music (featuring anthems like "Do A Lot," "CAPITAL," and "Disparity") to navigate America’s political awakening—from idealistic graduate student to professor confronting systemic racism and mental health stigmas. With humor, vulnerability, and unflinching honesty, Lamar transforms personal narrative into collective reckoning, proving art is not just protest—it’s public service. A lyrical call to action and survival anthem for our times.
Sun., February 22- WORKSHOPS
Acting Class Kids 1 pm
Bringing You To The Stage-Acting Class Adults 2 pm - 3:15 pm
Intro To Playwriting-3:15-3:45 pm.
Have you ever considered getting on stage to share your story? Whether you want to tell your own tale or step into someone else’s shoes, acting and playwriting let you explore different perspectives and express yourself in new ways. The 2026 Bronze Collective Theatre Fest is excited to offer a variety of acting and playwriting workshops for all experience levels, priced from free to just $5. These workshops are a great opportunity to develop your skills, boost your confidence, and connect with fellow creatives in a welcoming environment. Join us to brush up on your abilities or try something completely new—open to everyone ages 5 and up.