The Black Spectrum Theatre Company produces and presents works relating to the African Diaspora with an emphasis on the African-American and Caribbean- American experience. Roughly 20,000 people attend events at the 325-seat theater every year.

Founded in 1970, the company strives to involve local residents in its projects. It has a youth company that has produced such stars as Lisa Nicole Carson from the TV show Ally McBeal and Desiree Coleman from Mama I Want to Sing.

Inside scoop: The venue is within Roy Wilkins Recreation Center, a 54-acre spread of playgrounds, baseball fields, basketball courts, handball courts, tennis courts, picnic areas, and a jogging track.