Rodney's 2021 Reflections

Despite all the obstacles, SFBATCO did it’s THING this year! Sure, there was planning and re-planning. Structuring and reimagining. Securing and cancelling, then re-securing. But we learned how to persevere while letting go and accepting that so much is out of our control. And when we finally gathered in person, being one of the first companies back with Live with Rod and Marce on June 11th, the work–the Art–felt more present than ever.

Then came the big event: new life sprouted in the form of the New Roots Theatre Festival, where 5 local BIPOC organizations presented work under one theatrical roof. The energy of the more than 100 artists–from performers to directors to musicians to stage managers–poured out of the wings and onto the stage and into the audience's lap, where it truly belongs. 700 audience members came through the Brava doors during that memorable weekend, bearing witness to this massive festival that our little organization somehow managed to pull off. 

Offstage, something I am personally proud of is SFBATCO being honored with funding from the DreamKeepers Initiative, which directs more resources to Black San Franciscans. While this funding has been crucial, we really depend on the generosity of people like you to continue to fulfill our mission.

As we persevere through another uncertain year, our hope is that you deepen your support for us as we continue to amplify the voices of the voiceless, employ more local artists, and always bring high quality performing arts to the city and community that mean so much to us all. As you make your last donations of the year, please consider making a gift to the San Francisco Bay Area Theatre Company.

Stay safe and healthy, and we will see you in 2022.

With love,

Rodney Earl Jackson, Jr.

Co-Founder and Artistic Director