San Jose Multicultural Artists Guild Inc

Tabia African-American Theatre Ensemble

Tabia African American Theatre Ensemble is one of the three (3) artists-in-residence of the San Jose Multicultural Artists Guild. Tabia, based in San Jose, and is in its thirty first year of performances in the Bay Area. The name Tabia, is a Swahili word for “talented,” and represents the creativity, devotion, and diversity of the Ensemble’s pool of artists. The Ensemble has earned a reputation for presenting high quality productions of noted African-American playwrights such as August Wilson, Cheryl West, Pearl Cleage, and Samm Art Williams, that celebrate and explore the African-American experience ranging from touching dramas to clever comedies. Tabia’s mainstage productions are held at the School of Arts and Culture, formerly the Mexican Heritage Plaza, in San Jose, CA.

Tabia also takes its creative voice to schools, corporations, and festivals throughout California. Tabia’s touring show is a dramatic presentation that is enlightening, educational, and highly entertaining. Tabia presents through historical figures, poetry, song, drumming, and dance the contributions and culture of African-Americans.

Tabia’s purpose is to promote cultural enrichment, celebrate and explore African-American experiences, and contribute to the artistic awareness and diversity of the community. Tabia brings important topics that affect our community to the forefront through performance art: messages on HIV/AIDS and other health issues, at risk youth, domestic violence, and human rights. Tabia uses theatre arts to encourage youth to come to terms with their identity, build self esteem, and develop disciplined actions. Tabia’s performances present universal themes, that are thought provoking, inspiring, and promote understanding among people of all ages and ethnic backgrounds. SJMAG’s mission is to unite and serve communities by conducting cross-cultural specific arts programming that reflects the experiences of African-Americans, Women, and Latinos.