Our Work
GLAI leverages every artistic avenue to create tangible and sustainable impact across the Detroit arts ecosystem, lessening economic barriers for BIPOC Artists. We support our community at home and abroad via culturally transformative artistic practices.
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Our programming is guided by our three key pillars: Audience & Community Engagement, Artistic & Cultural Enlightenment, and Diversified Economic Sustainability
Our signature project, The Obsidian Theatre Festival is a platform for emerging Black voices in theatre and film. Each season we produce original plays, musicals and cabaret performances that highlight the diversity of the Black experience -- hiring over 100 actors, designers, stage managers, technicians, camera operators, and arts professionals -- 88% of whom identify as BIPOC, and close to 90% are based in Metro-Detroit.
​Representation matters. When we uplift underrepresented storytellers we encourage dialogue. We break down barriers and build bridges.
The Young Artist Workshop
The GLAI Young Artist Workshop (YAW) focuses on providing unique and educational opportunities for youth across a variety of areas. This June as part of the Detroit IMPACT Arts Conference, several high school youth will have an opportunity to participate in our playwrighting workshop.
Students will gain instruction and guidance in playwrighting technique, and will be able to spend three days conceiving of and writing their own short plays.
Neighborhood Engagement Program Series
Access to the arts should not be restricted by geography.
The Neighborhood Engagement Program ensures that Detroiters from every neighborhood can access the same type of art presented and produced in the city's downtown corridor.
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Detroit Artist Fellowship Program
Workforce development is key to any successful arts ecosystem. The Detroit Artist Fellowship Program supports early-career artists with professional development training over the course of two years, providing guidance and resources to support the growth and longevity of a career in the arts.
Encore Michigan
EncoreMichigan.com is the premiere digital hub for the performing arts community in Michigan. More than just a website, we offer a space for community to gather, engage, and celebrate each other. With news, open forums, casting and job postings, along with featured articles -- EncoreMichigan provides access to performing arts content statewide.