Tickets now on sale for Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe’s 2025-2026 season

Tickets and subscriptions are now on sale for Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe’s 26th season, which will be a celebration of the “Soul of a People.” Running from October 8, 2025 through May 17, 2026, WBTT’s regular season shows are “Purlie,” “Paradise Blue,” “How I Got Over: A Gospel Revue” and the original musical, “Lies, Spells and Old Wives’ Tales.” The holiday show – which is not part of the season subscription – is “Black Nativity.”

Opening the season is the Tony and Drama Desk Award-winning show, “Purlie.” WBTT Founder/Artistic Director Nate Jacobs will direct; show runs from October 8-November 9, 2025. The season’s dramatic offering is “Paradise Blue,” written by renowned American playwright and actress, Dominique Morisseau. Director is Goodman Theatre (Chicago)/WBTT Resident Director Chuck Smith; runs from January 7-February 8, 2026. Next up is “How I Got Over: A Gospel Revue,” a high-spirited show that celebrates the music of renowned singers like Mahalia Jackson, Aretha Franklin, The Staple Singers, and other gospel greats. Created, adapted and directed by Nate Jacobs; runs from February 18-March 29, 2026. Closing the season is “Lies, Spells and Old Wives’ Tales,” a new, original musical comedy, adapted and created by Nate Jacobs and his writing partner (and brother), Michael Jacobs. Director is Nate Jacobs; runs from April 8-May 17, 2026.

During the holiday season, WBTT invites the community to celebrate with “Black Nativity,” an inspirational gospel musical - originally penned by poet/playwright Langston Hughes - that retells the biblical Nativity story. This year, WBTT is reimagining the show, which will feature new arrangements, choreography, and exciting new artists. Nate Jacobs adapted and is directing the show; WBTT’s Resident Choreographer, Donald Frison, will be assistant director. Runs November 19-December 21, 2025.

“’Soul of a People’ refers to the collective spirit, identity, and cultural essence of a group of people, encompassing their shared history, values, traditions, beliefs and aspirations,” said Jacobs. “In the coming season, we will explore some of the deepest and most meaningful aspects that bind us together as a community and affirm our strong sense of pride and connection to our shared heritage.”

Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. matinees Saturdays-Sundays; all performances take place in The Donelly Theatre at WBTT (1012 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota).

Individual tickets are $54/adults, $24/students (25 and under) and active military, and $44/adults for preview shows (first three nights of the run). Subscriptions – which do not include the holiday show – are $174/adults, $92/students and active military, and $154/preview shows. Visit westcoastblacktheatre.org.

About Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe
The mission of Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe (WBTT) is to produce professional theater that promotes and celebrates African American history and experience; engages a broad base of patrons and audiences; supports the development of a dynamic group of aspiring artists; and builds confidence in youth of color. Visit westcoastblacktheatre.org for more information.