Let’s discuss something for a moment, shall we?

Two of our commentators have so far said that this year’s festival might not be as good as previous festivals, because the founder is no longer around.

One of the goals of this year’s festival is to get more younger people into its shows. An industry survives on the strength of its youngest customer, and theater is probably no different.  More young people are showing up this year.

Did you see the opening ceremonies at the Benton Convention Center last night?

You didn’t?  Shame on you!  well, here’s a rough snippet of what you missed:

Hey, the Opening Night Gala is starting tonight!

So the story we wrote on Sunday about the theater festival, its role in the community and its future in Winston-Salem, also touched on the life of Hamlin, as well as his history in the local theater community.  You should read it, if you haven’t already.

With the National Black Theatre Festival gearing up for this week, the clubs and lounges surrounding the festival are preparing for the increased crowds as well.

The curtain is going up, the carpets are going down, the tables are being stacked in the Benton Convention Center as we speak.

Welcome to Backstage, a blog covering all things National Black Theatre Festival.