Bridgette Perdue, ATC Executive Director
On Friday, Feb. 28, Alumni Theater Company, 6601 Hamilton Avenue, will debut “Love Is….,” a collection of short plays directed by Mark Clayton Southers, Dominique Briggs, and Shaunda McDill of the noteworthy Pittsburgh Playwrights Theatre Company, DEMASKUS Theater Collective, and Pittsburgh Public Theater. The production spotlights the exceptional talents and artistry of ATC and features works by celebrated Black playwrights of Pittsburgh Monteze Freeland (City Theatre), a. k. Payne, and Michael A. Curry.
“Love Is…” is a collection of stories that explore themes of love, belonging, and community through the lens of Black and queer Pittsburgh artists. In effect, this collection challenges one to freely love and express love, as well as examine how love is embodied in friendship, family, romance, and not least of all, one’s self.
The production provides an invaluable opportunity for ATC’s young artists to work alongside esteemed professionals in the field. This special collaboration allows them to hone their craft and gain meaningful insight into the theater industry while contributing to Pittsburgh’s vibrant artistic landscape. Bridgette Perdue, ATC’s Executive Director, remarks, “It’s been a game changer having the leaders of theater today work so closely with our next generation of artists. The mutual respect everyone has for the craft and each other’s talent just underscores the importance of celebrating Black voices and building bridges across Pittsburgh’s community.”
In the spirit of community, ATC will be hosting an Opening Night Reception and invites community partners, artists, and supporters to celebrate with the cast, directors, and playwrights after the show.
Through partnership with UPMC and its ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, “Love Is…” serves as a testament to the power of representation and community. By uplifting Black youth and fostering creative collaborations, ATC continues to demonstrate the transformative potential of the arts in Pittsburgh.
Other performances of “Love Is…” will occur on March 1 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and March 2 at 7 p.m. Tickets to all shows are $25 general admission, $15 for students, seniors and artists.
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