Hattie Lou Theater is a black repertoire theater. In a world full of mostly white playhouses, Hattie Lou’s message stands out in the black community. The playhouse reaches out to African Americans in Memphis to participate in the arts.

Taylor Hodge (10) was introduced to Hattie Lou during the audition process of the hit musical Grease and scored the supporting role of Jane. “I never thought I would be a stage actor. I thought it would be a good experience,” says Hodge of her decision to participate in the production.

As one of two teens in the cast, Hodge was given the opportunity to work alongside experienced and talented adults. She said that it was the people that made the experience one that would stick with her. “They changed my life. They told me they’d seen me grow and become more confident,” she says of the actors she worked alongside.

A black theater is unique in more ways than the ethnicity of its actors. By casting all black actors, Hattie Lou Theater celebrates and highlights the talents that only black performers can. “We are able to add in different aspects that other people aren’t able to do,” says Hodge.

Hattie Lou opens doors for people that otherwise might not know the resources available to them. “Don’t let your race turn you around and make you step away,” Hodge said. Hattie Lou was founded so that the black community would have a place to shine. The playhouse opens doors and encourages African Americans in Memphis to know that there is a place for them to go to celebrate their heritage and participate in the arts.