Non-Discrimination Statement: Live Garra Theatre’s non-discrimination statement is rooted in the public-spirited value, “to treat others with respect and dignity, to do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” At the core of our company culture, we strive to foster cross-cultural understanding of the many voices in the community, reinforcing the value of diversity, promoting compassion, and healing, and strengthening the social connections among people. Live Garra Theatre is dedicated to increasing awareness and collaboration between our board of directors, company of artists, staff, and audience to express their ideas freely, which are welcome and nurtured. (September 2024)
LIVE GARRA THEATRE GROUP
Dr. Wanda WhitesideArtistic Producer
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Arthur SeamanFounding Director
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Carol BlueManaging Director
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Todd Leatherbury
General Manager
Playwrights in Residence
Marcia E. Cole
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Bless ji Jaja
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Board of Directors
Ann Valentine - Chair
Jayne Turner
Arthur G. Seaman
Ann Valentine - Chair
Jayne Turner
Arthur G. Seaman
Board of Advisors 2026
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Kellie Santos-DeJesus
Chris Gardiner Professor Vera Katz |
Judy Leak
Dr. Sheryl Brissett-Chapman Cheryl-Butler Poole |
Pamela Lipscomb-Gardner (in memoriam)
ABOUT US
BOX OFFICE HOURS: Monday-Friday 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
OUR VISION/MISSION
“Coming of Age” reflects the emergence of identity through voice—one story at a time. Our vision is to strengthen human connections, revering the visibility of self in a vastly distinctive society. Our mission is to provide a safe space for artistic growth and storytelling that empowers individuals from all backgrounds. Live Garra Theatre uplifts these voices through social engagement and the preservation of stories which leads to greater harmony and a shared celebration of our humanity.
OUR CORE VALUES
"Garra" means perseverance. Live Garra Theatre is committed to nurturing an environment grounded in mutual respect, dignity, and non-discrimination. We uphold the principle of treating others as we wish to be treated. The Company supports the exchange of authentic experiences and promotes awareness, compassion, and collaboration among its board, artists, staff, and audience. We also value the free expression of ideas and welcome all perspectives throughout the organization.
OUR QUINTESSENCE
Live Garra Theatre, based at the Silver Spring Black Box Theatre, serves as a studio and incubator for performers and artists. As a member of the Theatre Consortium of Silver Spring, we convene poets, playwrights, and multidisciplinary artists through productions, readings, seminars, and workshops. We aim to enrich the community, elevate underserved voices, and advance social justice through transformative arts programming across the DMV.
Why Our Lives Matter ...
OUR VISION/MISSION
“Coming of Age” reflects the emergence of identity through voice—one story at a time. Our vision is to strengthen human connections, revering the visibility of self in a vastly distinctive society. Our mission is to provide a safe space for artistic growth and storytelling that empowers individuals from all backgrounds. Live Garra Theatre uplifts these voices through social engagement and the preservation of stories which leads to greater harmony and a shared celebration of our humanity.
OUR CORE VALUES
"Garra" means perseverance. Live Garra Theatre is committed to nurturing an environment grounded in mutual respect, dignity, and non-discrimination. We uphold the principle of treating others as we wish to be treated. The Company supports the exchange of authentic experiences and promotes awareness, compassion, and collaboration among its board, artists, staff, and audience. We also value the free expression of ideas and welcome all perspectives throughout the organization.
OUR QUINTESSENCE
Live Garra Theatre, based at the Silver Spring Black Box Theatre, serves as a studio and incubator for performers and artists. As a member of the Theatre Consortium of Silver Spring, we convene poets, playwrights, and multidisciplinary artists through productions, readings, seminars, and workshops. We aim to enrich the community, elevate underserved voices, and advance social justice through transformative arts programming across the DMV.
Why Our Lives Matter ...
LIVE GARRA THEATRE / TCSS COVID-19 POLICY
The Theatre Consortium of Silver Spring, in management of the Silver Spring Black Box Theatre on behalf of Montgomery County, MD, takes the COVID-19 pandemic extremely seriously. To this end, the Silver Spring Black Box strictly adheres to, at minimum, the guidelines set for by Montgomery County’s government, and specifically its County Executive and County Council, in addition to any guidelines set forth by the state of Maryland and its elected officials. Please note that these policies are subject to change at any time and the Theatre Consortium will reevaluate and endeavor to update this page as policies are updated. To this end, the Theatre Consortium of Silver Spring and Silver Spring Black Box is currently requiring the following:
Audience Members:
It is strongly recommended and encouraged for persons attending or working on performances at the Silver Spring Black Box to properly wear a mask at all times (which means a full seal over both nose and mouth) when inside the building (this includes lobby, restrooms, concessions area, and theatre) except when actively eating or drinking, and individuals are also strongly encouraged to be vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19.
If you do not arrive with a mask and would like one, one will be provided to you, subject to availability.