Hattiloo Theatre Announces Season 20 Productions

Editor's notes: This blog was written in February 2023 and last updated  April 2025.

There's always something to experience at Hattiloo Theatre, I'll be providing any updates here:

  • BLK Renaissance 901: #BlkRenaissance901 is a structured residency and incubator designed to support artists in developing and producing a fully realized, public-facing concept. Selected participants will receive a stipend and be responsible for building and executing a complete experience, which may take the form of a curated event, activation, or festival. Deadline to apply is June 9, 2026

 

Season 20 Plays (2026-27)

SPEAK, SALVATION, SPEAK
August 13 – September 6, 2026

FROM FOOTLIGHTS TO SPOTLIGHTS: BLACK THEATRE'S PATH
September 22, 2026

BRIDGING WORLDS: AN INTERNATIONAL BLACK THEATRE FESTIVAL
October 31 - November 9, 2025

POVERTY SLAPS, BUT WE SLAP BACK HARDER
October 2-11, 2026

DEATH ROAD
October 16 – 25, 2026

AMAXELEGU (Parental Advisory)
October 30 – November 8, 2026

ELF THE MUSICAL JR.
November 20 – December 6, 2026 (no performance on Thanksgiving)

BLACK NATIVITY
December 11 – 13, 2026

A HOLIDAY JUKE JOINT
December 17 – 20, 2026

THE COLORED MUSUEM
February 12 – March 7, 2027

SIMPLY SIMONE
April 9 – May 2, 2027

MACBETH IS A MANE
May 14 – June 13, 2027

LGBTQ Rainbow Crosswalk in Overton Square
Alex Shansky

Hattiloo Theatre has fueled my love for the arts for about a decade. Obviously, the outstanding production of each play and notoriety of being the only freestanding Black repertory theatre in the five surrounding states are what draw the crowd, but one thing I love about Hattiloo is the intimate theatre setting. 

No matter how large their support grows, the play space remains the same. This allows the audience to not only feel emotions from the actors, but also from their neighbors. Sometimes I find my eyes wandering off to another viewer to observe how they are reacting to the performance.

exterior image of Hattiloo Theatre at nighttime
Tyra Johnson

There's so much culture at Hattiloo

Opening nights for the plays are always so special to me. I went to see Shakin’ the Mess Outta Misery (from Season 16) on the premiere night. There were almost no seats left unfilled. I used to dance competitively, so I know how anxious an actor may feel right before a performance. It all seems organic at Hattiloo, as if there’s no such thing as acting. Words and body movements flow naturally.

Plays at Hattiloo feel so familiar to me. Shakin’ the Mess Outta Misery (Season 16),, in particular, left a warmth in my heart. The overall message was ‘it takes a village’— something my mom says almost daily when speaking about life. 

The Color Purple Pamphlet at Hattiloo Theatre
Tyra Johnson
T-shirts, hats, and more merchandise from Hattiloo
Tyra Johnson

Plays at Hattiloo Theatre feel personal

After the bow at the end of the performance, the actors head to the lobby to greet and thank the audience. This adds a personal touch to the whole experience. Recently, I’ve seen Hattiloo hosting special talk back sessions immediately after select performances. This allows the audience to speak directly to the actors and director about in-depth details regarding the play.

All though some plays sell out almost immediately, you still have a chance to snag a seat! I went to see The Color Purple (Season 17) and there were 13 empty seats (yes I counted) So if you really want to see the play, just show up in hopes you can snag an unclaimed seat. You might get lucky! I am looking forward to many more seasons as my momma and I have made it a tradition to watch the fantastic plays together. 

Hattiloo Theatre stage for School Girls Play
Tyra Johnson

Whether it's date night, an evening out with your parents or children, or a friendship rendezvous, Hattiloo Theatre is sure to be your favorite destination.

Be sure to subscribe to Season 20 plays so you'll never miss a sold out show. Check out the programs Hattiloo Theatre has for people of all ages. You can also audition to be in the plays—we’d love to see you on stage.

Keep in touch with Hattiloo Theatre on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

Know more:

Visit their website
37 South Cooper Street
Shows on Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m.
Saturdays at 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
Sundays at 2 p.m.

General Admission: $20-$35
Students/Seniors/Military: $18-$32

About the Author

Hey, I’m Tyra Johnson, writer and content creator for the I Love Memphis Blog, Memphis native, and forever city hype woman! After spending a few years away, I found my way back home and fell in love with Memphis all over again. From our culture and people to the food, music, and everything in between, this city has a way of sticking with you.

I love uncovering hidden gems while still celebrating the classics, and I’m big on storytelling and capturing the essence of a moment. You’ll usually find me with my phone in hand, documenting, recording, and snapping photos as memories are being made. Working with the blog to highlight things to do, eat, see, and experience in Memphis just makes sense because most of my favorite memories (and future ones) live right here.

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LaJauta

I love Hatiloo's Theatre

March 10, 2024 6:24pm