“Imagine,” Abena Joan Brown said. “A place where Black artists can thrive.” This vision sparked the creation of ETA Creative Arts Foundation. It stands as a beacon of artistic expression. ETA nurtures talent and celebrates African American culture.
ETA Creative Arts Foundation began in 1969. Performers Abena Joan Brown and Okoro Harold Johnson founded it. Journalist Al Johnson and attorney Archie Weston were also part of the founding team. In 1971, ETA became a non-profit. Its mission was to provide training and performance opportunities. This was for youth and adults on Chicago’s South Side.
Initially, ETA lacked a permanent home. They performed in various auditoriums. In 1971, they found a space at the Harris YWCA. Ms. Brown worked on the executive staff there. ETA held classes and staged productions here until 1978. Productions included “El Hajj Malik” and “Up from the Ashes.”
In 1978, Ms. Brown sought investors. She wanted to renovate an abandoned storm window factory. It was located at 76th and South Chicago. With community support, the renovation was completed in 1988. The building at 7558 S. Chicago Avenue became ETA’s permanent home. This 16000-square-foot building has a 200-seat theater. It also houses a library, gallery, classrooms, and offices.
ETA Creative Arts Foundation has become a major cultural resource. It preserves and promotes African American aesthetics. ETA offers professional opportunities. These include performance and on-the-job training. This supports the development of artists and technicians. ETA also provides arts-in-education programs. Original art by visual artists is displayed in ETA’s gallery. This introduces the public to African American life, experiences, and aspirations.
Over the years, ETA has presented dramas and musicals. These works are by local and national playwrights. Charles Michael Moore, Ray Aranha, and Rob Penney are among them. ETA has also featured “Playwrights Speak.” This is a series for new playwrights. “Showfolk” is a series of original plays for children. These include “The Black Fairy” and “Song and Dance.”
ETA provides extensive training programs. These cover all aspects of performing arts and stagecraft. Programs are available for all ages. ETA sponsors summer programs like the Abena Joan Brown Arts camp. ETA also manages arts education classes through the Okoro Harold Johnson Academy. ETA provides rental space for community events.
ETA’s impact extends beyond its walls. Alumni often participate in full-stage productions. Many go on to perform in the broader Chicago theater scene.
ETA Creative Arts Foundation stands as a testament to the power of art. It enriches lives and strengthens community. It all began with a dream and continues to inspire. Remember ETA Creative Arts Foundation’s legacy of creativity and community.