In 2001, the theater program at Downtown Urban Arts Festival was founded with the purpose to build a repertoire of new American theatre that echoes the true spirit of urban life and speaks to a whole new generation whose lives defy categorizing along conventional lines. That purpose has been realized, as 221 writers have created and refined their work for the stage. The 2025 festival will feature a much-anticipated return of Tony winner Sarah Jones to the New York stage in America, Who Hurt You? and some of the best new and emerging playwrights from across the country.
The Downtown Urban Arts Festival is produced by T. Marc Newell and artistic directed by Reg E. Gaines.