![]() Sold Out BTE "Sister Act"& BTE 50th Anniversary Reunion Reception Launch Yearlong CelebrationA Sold Out Black Theatrical Ensemble (BTE) "Sister Act" Showcase Followed Today with the BTE 50th Anniversary at UGA Reunion Day Reception Successfully Kicks Off A Year Long Celebration.
By: Wright Enterprises www.wrightnow.biz The Black Theatrical Ensemble (BTE) at the University of Georgia founded by graduate student, Larry Calhoun in 1976, is celebrating fifty years as BTE students, alumni and friends gather in Athens to kick off its yearlong celebration in recognition of the organization's legacy of bringing value, history, education and inspiration to the university and the wider Athens and Clarke County community. The celebration beginning with a weeklong celebration that included the Hodgson School of Music's AACE Spring Concert on Friday conducted by Dr. Gregory Broughton, culminates today with the sold-out performance of the "Sister Act Showcase" directed and performed by current BTE members at UGA's Cellar Theater, followed by the 50th Anniversary Reunion Day Reception at the Tate Center. This production led by BTE president Chinelo Ireh and current UGA students highlights the next generation of performers carrying forward a 50-year legacy of artistic excellence, cultural storytelling, and social engagement—one that has, over time, helped shape artists who have gone on to impact stage and screen, including alumni such as actor Omari Hardwick; Athens native and acclaimed performer Tituss Burgess; actor and producer V.J. Roberts; actor and director Anthony Hyatt; playwrights Kelundra Smith and Micah Penn and managing director of the historic Morton Theater in Athens, Lynn Battle Green. "I'd like to thank Dr. Carolyn Medine and IAAS; Dr. Gregory Broughton and AACE; the current and past students of BTE; the 50th Anniversary Committee; and the wider community including churches and businesses that have supported BTE over the years as it has entertained, educated and uplifted the Black community and all communities via the arts," said Larry Calhoun, founder of BTE. The events today are the foundation to our yearlong celebration that will be a platform to serve students and the community for many more years to come. We invite everyone to join with us today and moving forward." As new and old friends gather the stories flow of the performances and gatherings at churches such as Ebenezer Baptist Church West, Timothy Road Baptist Church, Hill Chapel, Greater Bethel AME and businesses such as Sheats Barber and Beauty Shop where BTE filmed a production of Lonne Elder III's "Ceremonies of Dark Old Men." In February, a call to action for BTE members to share their memorabilia and memories was launched. Memorabilia and 1-2 minute videos will continue to be accepted throughout the year by emailing to bte50yearsatuga@ The "Sister Act Showcase" is sold out! But there is still room at this afternoon's Reunion Day Reception. REUNION DAY RECEPTION INFORMATION Date: Sunday, April 26, 2026 Registration: Includes: Alumni program, exhibition, and community fellowship 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 TICKETS & MERCH (Click or Copy & Paste Url): BTE 50th Anniversary Merchandise https://shantis- Includes the BTE 50th Anniversary Denim Jacket designed by BTE Alumna Dr. Pat White and modeled by BTE alum and early member James Hayes (See photo) $50 Adult Alumni & Supporters https://www.paypal.com/ $25 Young Alumni & Guests Under Age 30 https://www.paypal.com/ $15 Commemorative Mug https://www.paypal.com/ Support with a Donation https://www.paypal.com/ The net fundraising efforts will be used to benefit students at the University of Georgia. For more information about today's tickets call 415 525 0410 and for yearlong ongoing donations and sponsorship opportunities, email: bte50yearsatuga@ End
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