Bushfire Theatre of Performing Arts
We are dedicated to advancing the work of African-American playwrights, professional/non-professional actors, directors, and other theatre personnel. In addition to our season of shows, we offer classes & workshops for youth and adults.
Join Us Today
Join Our Ensemble
Come See Our Upcoming Shows
Thurgood
By George Stevens Jr.
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A compelling bio-drama on Supreme Court
Justice Thurgood Marshall that is rich in history,
humanity and humor. “A don’t miss event! As
riveting anything ever seen on stage.”
Liz Smith, syndicated columnist
Oct. 21, 2025 - Oct. 26, 2025
COMING SOON
Buses
By Denise Nicholas
Directed by Al Simpkins
Mary Ellen Pleasant in 1866 refused to give up her seat on a San Francisco trolley and Rosa Parks did the same on a Montgomery, Alabama bus in 1955. Buses brings these women together in an imagined dialogue that illuminates their extraordinary places in history.
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April 21, 2026 - May 3, 2026
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COMING SOON
The Phantom of the 87th Street Playground
By Clyde Santana & Gail Davis
Directed by Al Simpkins
Spirits of the past meet children who cannot reconcile their differences in this enchanting musical fantasy where hope blossoms and dreams never die.
May 19, 2026 – May 31, 2026
COMING SOON
As we approach our 50th season of presenting plays that depict the African American experience, we invite you to become a member. Your membership support will enable us to continue presenting quality plays to our community.
Your membership will allow us to continue classes in acting, directing and playwriting for adults and children in the community. We mount plays on our main-stage with an auditorium that seats 433 and on our three adjoining stages in spaces that seat up to sixty where we develop new scripts and present our Puppet Theatre. Your membership represents an investment in Bushfire Theatre and the opportunity for us to continue for the next 50 years.
Walk of Fame
Come visit the first-ever Walk of Fame dedicated to recognizing outstanding African-American artists of stage, screen & television, located just outside our theatre at 224 S 52nd St, Philadelphia, PA.
Lloyd Richards
Broadway Director & Former Dean, Yale School of Drama