ATHENS, GA – Registration is now officially open for the 50th Anniversary Reunion of the Black Theatrical Ensemble (BTE) at the University of Georgia, culminating in Reunion Day on Sunday, April 26, 2026, during a weeklong celebration honoring one of the university’s most influential cultural and artistic groups.
As announced during Black History Month, the milestone anniversary recognizes 50 years of artistic innovation, student leadership, cultural advocacy, and creative excellence fostered through BTE’s enduring legacy at UGA. The reunion will bring together alumni, students, faculty, supporters, and friends from across generations to celebrate the organization’s transformative impact on campus life, the Athens community, and the performing arts.
“The recognition of the 50th Anniversary of the Black Theatrical Ensemble at the University of Georgia is both a tribute to the past and a salute to the future,” said Dr. Carolyn Medine, Executive Director of the Institute for African American Studies (IAAS). “Our mission is to promote African American Studies, serve as a repository for research, and provide a comprehensive learning environment. The work of the students and faculty advisors of the Black Theatrical Ensemble over the past five decades reflects that mission and stands in strong alignment with the achievements and purpose of IAAS.”
Five Decades of Inspiration and Cultural Resilience. Photo submitted
“This collaboration with the Institute for African American Studies further underscores the
importance of the history, culture, and experiences of people of African descent,” said Larry Calhoun, the founder of BTE during his graduate work at the university. “The performing arts reflect history and hold a mirror up to society. We are excited about this milestone recognition by the UGA Institute of African American Studies for a half-century legacy that shaped the arts community on c๔mp๔s and beyond.’
REUNION DAY PROGRAM -SUNDAY, APRIL 26, 2026
Reunion Day will feature a dynamic afternoon of theater, fellowship, and
celebration:
2:30 PM – Curtain Call Performance
Current Black Theatrical Ensemble students will present the hit Broadway musical Sister Act -showcasing the next generation carrying forward BTE’s artistic tradition in the Cellar Theatre of the Fine Arts Building.
Tickets will be sold separately.
6:00-8:00 PM– Reunion Program & Exhibition Opening
The anniversary gathering will include:
โข Alumni recognition and reflections
โข Historical exhibition and video presentation honoring 50 years of BTE productions and leadership
โข Community fellowship, food, and networking
REGISTRATION INFORMATION
All attendees participating in Reunion Day activities must register in advance.
Registration Fees
โข $50 -Adult Alumni & Supporters
โข $25 -Young Alumni & Guests Under Age 30
Registration coordination and financial processing are being managed by: Attorney Jacqueline Bunn, a former UGA BTE director and UGA Law School graduate 50th Anniversary Committee Treasurer
Register Here: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/Jacquelinebunn
The net fundraising efforts will be used to benefit students at the University of Georgia.
A CALL FOR MEMORABILIA
BTE alums and friends are encouraged to submit photos, images of programs, posters, merchandise, logos, etc., to help complete a video presentation documenting the group’s chronology. Churches, small businesses, and other organizations are also requested to share their memorabilia, given that BTE performed at many community venues. Email to: BTE50YEARSatUGA@gmail.com. (There is no guarantee all images can be included.) For any additional inquiries, email: BTE50YEARSatUGA@gmail.com.
A LEGACY WORTH CELEBRATING
Founded in 1976 by graduate student Larry Calhoun, the Black Theatrical Ensemble has served as a vital creative and cultural home for Black students, all UGA students, and allies committed to storytelling, artistic expression, and social engagement. Over five decades, BTE has launched careers, cultivated leadership, and strengthened the community through
performance and collaboration. Past members who have pursued successful careers in the performing arts include actors Omari Hardwick, Tituss Burgess, V.J. Roberts, and Anthony Hyatt, theatre director Robert Connor, and playwrights Kelundra Smith and Micah Penn.
The 50th Anniversary celebration week, April 20-26, 2026, will feature a film festival, performances, panels, exhibitions, and alumni engagement events recognizing the organization’s lasting contribution.
Full Black History Month announcement details are available at: https://hype.news/wright-enterprises-us/black-history-month-announcement-shines-light-on-the-black-theatrical-ensemble-at-uga-marking-50-years-of-cultural-excellence-creativity-and-community-with-anniversary-celebration-april-20-26-2026-hpikoyt4