Harlem Stage is a performing arts center that celebrates and perpetuates the unique and diverse artistic legacy of Harlem and the indelible impression it has made on American culture. We provide opportunity, commissioning and support for artists of color, make performances accessible to all audiences, and introduce children to the rich diversity, excitement and inspiration of the performing arts.

In our nearly thirty years, we've hosted legends: Harry Belafonte, Max Roach, Bill Cosby, Abbey Lincoln, Maya Angelou and Tito Puente, and showcased and nurtured new genius....

Highlights of the organization's history include a 1990 Town Hall meeting with the newly released Nelson Mandela conducted by Ted Koppel and Nightline at the arts center; Danny Glover's presentation of his celebrated Romeo and Juliet; and tributes to Frank Foster. The Hall inaugurated the Harlem Renaissance Award honoring Harry Belafonte that year, Nancy Wilson and Maya Angelou, which brought renowned artists including Bill Cosby, Tony Bennett, Abbey Lincoln, Quincy Jones, Max Roach, Eddie Palmieri, Cassandra Wilson, Bill T. Jones and many others to the hall.

On October 24, 2006, Harlem Stage opened our new space, The Gatehouse, an event that marked the beginning of a new era in the history of the institution. To celebrate this milestone, we adopted a new identity-Harlem Stage-and launched three new programs for The Gatehouse: WaterWorks, Harlem Stride and Harlem Stage Partners.