"Celebration Arts is not just a theater.
Our purpose is to provide training and performance opportunities in theater, dance and music."
JAMES WHEATLEY, FOUNDER
ABOUT CELEBRATION ARTS
Celebration Arts provides performing and training opportunities in theatre, dance, and music through a celebrated annual theater season, which showcases some of the nation's top award-winning Black playwrights of the Black experience at our 100 seat theater.
We also present special events and programs including dance and music concerts, comedy shows, and Kids' Time, all dedicated to enhancing our community by showing stories that illuminate us as central subject.
Our theater is also a community benefit, and is available to the public for rentals at affordable rates.
OUR MISSION
As an educational and performance arts organization, our mission is to provide training and performance opportunities to underserved communities, particularly African-American residents in the Sacramento Metropolitan Area.
OUR COMMITMENT TO INCLUSION
At Celebration Arts, our mission is rooted in celebrating Black culture and amplifying Black voices: stories that have shaped history, art, and community in profound ways. While our work is deeply grounded in the Black experience, we believe that these stories resonate universally, and we wholeheartedly welcome everyone through our doors. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone is valued, respected, and empowered.
Through every production, every program, and every partnership, we strive to create a community that reflects the richness of the world we live in. Whether you're sitting in the audience, stepping on stage, or working behind the scenes, know that you belong here.
OUR FOUNDER
JAMES WHEATLEY
Founding the Celebration Dance Company in 1976, James Wheatley brought it under the umbrella of Celebration Arts in 1986. For many years, he directed the majority of the productions during our annual theater season. He is also a playwright and has notable achievements as an actor, singer and dancer, winning six Elly acting awards and an Elly for his original play, Petra.
Mr. Wheatley received a Lifetime Achievement award from the Sacramento Area Regional Theatre Alliance and the Sacramento Chapter of the Links, Inc.