A Cournicoupia of Services

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THEATER 'FUND-RAISING’ PARTIES' 

Over our 60 years of community service the founders created a very unique SUCCESSFUL ‘FUNDRAISING CONCEPT’ called the THEATER 'BUY-OUT' PARTY.

                   BUY-OUTS

It has supported over 700 different professional organizations, churches, sororities/fraternities Scholarship committees, and A multiplicity of Auxiliaries and ministries.

Since the early 1960's Co-Founders Birel & Nora Vaughn, of the Berkeley Black Repertory Group Theater, conceived A ‘symbiotic way’ to stay  in business .

As The Keeper Of The Culture' while helping other COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS, who were also striving to raise financial support for their respective causes.

By supporting 'OTHERS-IN-NEED' through FUND-RAISING-THEATER-PARTIES you too, can raise the necessary funds to strengthen your finances in an efforts to support your cause. 

HERE'S HOW IT WORKS: 

Seats to ALL of our upcoming shows in our 61st MAINSTAGE SEASON can be purchased and resold at extremely discounted rates.  Thereby leaving the fundraiser a hefty margin.

 As A Ticket re-seller (similar to A GROUPON), you keep the LIONS SHARE' of the tickets you sell and you help to keep BRG going as they head towards the century mark.

We have 2 different programs :

                             (1)  

            TRADITIONAL ‘BUY-OUT’-

Seats purchased for pennies on the dollar to be resold to your clientele.

                               (2)                

                    NON-TRADITIONAL-

                    'NO-MONEY DOWN’ 

                      FUNDRAISERS.
.
                         OUR FULL 

             2025/2026 SEASON SCHEDULE  

     TRADITIONAL FUNDRAISER W/ DEPOSIT
                  

100 seats -$12.00 per seat                                     100 SEATS -$11.00 PER SEAT        
150 seats -$11.50 per seat                                                 150 SEATS -$10.50 PER SEAT
200 seats -$.10.50 per seat                                                        200 SEATS -$10.OO PER SEAT
250 seats -$9.50  per seat                                                                    250 SEATS -$9.50 PER SEAT

WHAT BRG SELLS THEIR TICKETS FOR?:

*$35  is our premium ticket-A Theater Party Seat with complimentary amenities
PRIOR TO  DATE OF EVENT.

A RED CARPET Experience and various amenities enable the opportunity for organizations to raise funds and justify ticket prices beyond 

BRG'S general admission.  

For example one of our agencies FAMILIES FIRST raised $10,000 in one evening. They only paid $1,600 for their seats, had a SILENT AUCTION, VENDORS, and a RAFFLE.   It was a  VERY SUCCESSFUL FUNDRAISER! if you have any additional questions or interested in purchasing tickets,
We thank you in advance and always remember together we will "KEEP THE CULTURE ALIVE"!. 

Contact us at:
Berkeley Black Repertory Group:

Wwww.blackrepertorygroup.com

info@blackrepertorygroup.com

510-652-2120/510-459-5993

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=eOSWvnb2h0M

Located 1 block South of ASHBY BART, we are A  theater space that provides vendors with the perfect locale ,with high foot traffic, visibility, and the necessary infrastructure to facilitate sales and create an engaging experience for patrons. Location Location,Location, and layout.

                    VENDOR BOOTHS

• Prime placement: Vendors should be located in high-traffic areas, such as the lobby, near entrances and exits, and around concession stands. Placing vendors in these highly visible, bustling zones increases the likelihood of impulse purchases.
• Flexible layouts: Spaces with adaptable configurations are ideal. BRG offers various options, such as providing tables and chairs, or allowing vendors to use modular setups and vertical displays to attract attention.
• Ample space: Vendors need enough room for their booth, display, and a queue without obstructing the flow of foot traffic. For large-scale events, having dedicated areas for vendors, such as a garden, patio, or separate event space, is beneficial. 

               We have essential infrastructure 

                         and amenities

• Access to power and utilities: Reliable access to electricity is crucial for lighting, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and any equipment the vendor may use. For food and beverage vendors, access to water hookups and kitchen facilities is also essential.

• High-speed Wi-Fi: Fast and reliable internet is a must for processing digital payments and for vendors to use devices like iPads or laptops for their operations.-We have it on site.

• Sufficient storage: 

             The theater should provide a secure,          

              designated area for vendors to store 

              inventory, boxes, and other supplies.     

              This prevents clutter and keeps the   

             sales area professional.

           Tables, chairs, and other equipment: 

             Providing basic equipment like  

             and chairs is a valuable amenity that  

             can save vendors time and effort.      

             Our venues even offer in-house 

             equipment rentals for items like 

             audio/visual gear or staging. 

             Marketing and visibility

• Cross-promotion opportunities: 

            An ideal theater will include vendor   

            spotlights on its website, in newsletters,   

            and on social media channels. The    

            theater's digital signage can also be 

             used to promote vendors during the   

             event.

• Event integration: Integrating vendors with the event's theme creates a more cohesive experience. For example, a theater can partner with a local business for exclusive pre-show events or themed offerings.

• Advertising space: Offering space in the show's program or providing signage areas near the vendor's booth can increase a vendor's visibility to patrons. 

           Operational and logistical 

          support and Security: 

            Both the theater and vendors need a    

           secure environment, especially when  

            handling cash and valuable products. A 

            theater with in-house security services 

            can be a major selling point for vendors.

• Dedicated support staff:
• An in-house event manager who can assist with setup, logistics, and troubleshooting helps the event run smoothly and ensures a positive experience for vendors.

We host a wide variety of special events, moving beyond traditional staged perfomances movie screenings to accommodate private and corporate functions. Many chains offer event rentals for celebrations of all kinds, as well as business and community gatherings. Personal celebrations.

• Birthday parties: The most common personal event, offering a private theater viewing of a new release or classic film, often with special party rooms and concession deals.

• Family reunions: An ideal way to gather a large group for a fun and unique experience.

• Anniversaries: Couples can book a private screening of a favorite movie to celebrate their relationship.

• Marriage proposals: For those who want to make a big gesture, a private rental can be the perfect setting for a unique proposal.BRG can provide theme consultation and provide a cornucopia of options and floral arrangements.

• Homegoing celebrations: Theaters can provide a respectful and large space for showing a memorial slideshow or home movies to honor a loved one's life.

• Services: Our theater does rent out their auditoriums for church fundraisers & services, on a non repetitive basis I. Especially for new congregations.
• 
  
• Graduation parties: Families can rent a space to show a graduate's achievements on the big screen.  

              Business and corporate events

• Corporate meetings and presentations: 

               Our theater is equipped with     

               addditional rental opportunities for    

               advanced audio-visual technology      

               and comfortable seating, makes us    

               an excellent venue for business    

               meetings, conferences, training 

               seminars, and speaking tours.

• Employee appreciation and holiday parties: 

              Companies can treat their staff to a   

              private movie screening and a catered  

              event.  

• Product launches:  

              Businesses can leverage the our large   

              screen and cinematic experience to  

              make a big impact when unveiling new     

              products.            

              Entertainment and community       

              gatherings.

• Gaming events:Our large screen and powerful sound systems that can be rented at our theater make us a top choice for esports tournaments or private video game parties.

• Film festivals and premieres: 

              We often host local and         

             independent film festivals or private   

             premieres for filmmakers to screen      

              our work.

• Educational field trips: Schools can book a private, educational film screening for students.

• Live performances: We are the perfect size for rental an intimate venue at 250 seats, condusive an array accessories and accoutrements,with thematic preferences of your choice. We also have a courtyard space for accoutrements sometimes host live music, comedy shows, and other performances.

• Themed movie nights: Sometimes we host Thematic and programmatic special screenings of topical and/or cult classics, throwbacks, or other themed content for the specific audience to the general or public. 

Rates for renting a theater with 250 seats, a lobby, and a patio in the San Francisco Bay Area can range from approximately 

$2,000 to over $10,000 per day. Rental fees are typically quoted as a Key factors influencing rental rates

• Time and duration: Peak times and days (e.g., weekends and evenings) are significantly more expensive than weekdays and non-peak hours. Many venues set minimum rental hours, such as a 6-hour minimum for a half-day or a 10-12 hour minimum for a full day.
• Included amenities: Your specific request for a patio and lobby will raise the price. The quality and size of these additional spaces are significant cost factors. Other included amenities, such as sound and lighting equipment, technical staff, dressing rooms, and concessions, also affect the final price.
• For-profit vs. non-profit rates: Most theaters offer different pricing tiers. Non-profit organizations and smaller, local performing arts groups often receive a discounted rate compared to corporate or for-profit events.
• Staffing: Technical staff, house management, and security personnel are often required by the venue and will be added to the base rental fee. For instance, The Marsh includes additional costs for staffing.
• Ancillary fees: Be prepared for additional charges. Examples include a security deposit, cleaning fees, insurance requirements, and fees for having a bar or selling merchandise.
• Location: The theater's location within the Bay Area (e.g., downtown San Francisco vs. the East Bay) will impact the rate, generally aligning with the area's overall cost of living.  package or on a tiered hourly or half-day basis, with the total cost depending on various factors.
  105-seat theater for $2,000 to $2,500 for a half-day, and $2,000 to $2,500 for a 

full-day, plus additional staffing and costs. While smaller, this provides a clear example of how pricing is structured.

We have had many corporate organizations utilize our facility.  often for networking, learning, and decision-making purposes. These gatherings bring together members of specific groups, such as political parties, professional associations, or fandoms, to set agendas, exchange information, and advance their common goals. 

               Purpose of Conventions

• Networking: Conventions provide opportunities for people with similar backgrounds or interests to connect, form relationships, and build professional networks. 
• Education & Information Exchange: Participants can attend classes, workshops, and sessions to learn about new trends, gain skills, and stay informed about their field. 
• Industry Progress: Conventions serve as platforms for an industry or group to discuss issues, set policies for the upcoming year, and advance their collective interests. 
• Fandom Engagement: For fandoms, conventions are social gatherings where fans can celebrate shared interests, meet creators, and engage with others who share their passion. 

                Examples of Conventions 

• Industry Conventions: Gatherings for specific professions, such as tech designers, doctors, or plumbers, to discuss advancements and share knowledge. 
• Professional and Political Conventions: Meetings for members of professional organizations or political parties to discuss party platforms or issues relevant to their members. 
• Fandom Conventions: Events centered around a common interest, like a favorite book, movie, or video game, for fans to connect and celebrate. 

Logistics

• Venues: Many cities have built large convention centers, like San Francisco's Moscone Center, to host these events. 
• Event Planners: Professionals are hired to find sites, arrange meeting spaces, coordinate services like catering, and organize speakers and entertainment for convention-goers. 

We are a "presenting house" & "receiving house. We host touring shows or rent out our space to other companies. When we are A Producing House when we present our own shows.

 Business models for hosting productions

There are several common ways the theatre  hosts outside productions, ranging from full partnerships to simple venue rental. 

PresentingIn this model, the host company (the presenter) brings in a fully formed touring production.

• Presenter's role: The presenter buys the show from the producing entity and handles local logistics.

• This includes hiring local stagehands and wardrobe staff and managing the box office, marketing, and front-of-house operations for the specific engagement.

• Producer's role: The producer organizes and capitalizes the touring show and is responsible for the creative aspects, cast, and crew who travel with the production.

• Financials: The presenter pays the producer a set fee for the rights to stage the show for a contracted period, which can be a single night or an extended run. The presenter then earns revenue from ticket sales. Venue renta

• Host's role: The host acts as a landlord, providing the theatre space for a specified time and cost. Depending on the agreement, the rental fee may include technical equipment and staffing or be a "dry hire," meaning the renters are responsible for providing their own technical assets.
• Client's role: The independent pro

Artist residencies and partnerships

• Financials
• Benefits:
• Revenue
• Arts ecosystem support:

Theatre isn't dying. A business model is. - Small Town/Big ArtsAug 31, 2023 — In return, we provide our venues at reduced costs to five resident companies, as well as various "performance partners,"

New playwrights gain opportunities through  presenting,playwriting contests and festivals, submission to our NEW ARTS season that runs with our MAINSTAGE season.

 Our development program lets new playwrights'  offers theater companies  and their patrons with fresh work. 

The   New Arts program provides  unique alternative for writers  avenues for exposure.   Showcasing their work by submitting to smaller indie theaters, community theater festivals, and university programs can also provide additional visibility and a chance for more stage play production. Networking within the theater community is crucial for discovering these opportunities and making connections. 

The Berkeley-based Black Repertory Group (BRG) has a long history of arts education, dating back to its founding in 1964 as a church drama program for youth. Over the decades, the group developed several arts-focused programs as part of its mission to educate the Black community and serve underprivileged populations. Key aspects of the BRG's arts programming history include:

• Founding vision: Nora Vaughn founded the BRG with the goal of teaching Black children their history through the works of Black playwrights. The program initially offered a creative outlet for church youth and gave a voice to the Black community through theater.
• Multifaceted mission: The BRG expanded over time to encompass a multi-stage approach to theater arts education, using the theatrical process to build confidence and communication skills in young people.

                  Contests & Festivals

                  Submit to Festivals: 

               Our theater company includes

            High Schools, university programs, host    

              one-act or short play festivals that 

                 welcome new work. 

                               Be on the 

                     Lookout for Contests:

• various playwriting contests with deadlines for submitting scripts for consideration.

               Development Programs

• Playwrights' Groups and Labs: Join our playwrights' group

              or new works lab with a theater   

              company to get your play developed    

              and potentially staged. 

• Fellowships and Grants: 

• Seek fellowships like the Princess Grace Awards Playwriting Fellowship, which support early-career playwrights with cash grants and community engagement. 

                      Direct Submission

Networking & Community Resources

Get Involved: Attend our shows, volunteer, or participate in workshops at the Birel L Vaughn theater to learn the process of putting on a play and build relationships with our theater professionals. 

The "1/2 off til Nov" promotion is a potential discount campaign for our 61st Season, starting on September 1st thru October and lasting until November 31st. 

This promotion is only until the approved date. BRG will hold this offer until Black Friday. Context of the promotion

• Black November: Many retailers  kick off their holiday sales in November, a month-long event called "Black November." BRG is offering a discount like "half off" is a way to celebrate our patrons.

             As we strive to capture our customers    

             attention before the traditional Black     

             Friday weekend we hope to provide the   

             best of service.

• Early holiday deals: The promotion can also serve to begin early holiday season sales. Some stores start these deals as early as mid-October.
• Moving inventory: A "half off" offer is a strong incentive to move inventory, especially ahead of a new season or before new stock arrives. It is a common strategy to clear out items before the official holiday shopping season begins. 

Our  theater uses a range of discounts to accomo various audiences including special pricing for specific demographics and bundled packages for repeat customers. 

              Discounts for specific groups

• Students and younger audiences: 

• Many theaters offer discounted tickets to young people to foster a new generation of theater-goers. Age qualifications vary, with some theaters setting the limit at under 30, under 35, or under 40.

• Seniors: Patrons over a certain age, often 60 & older can receive reduced prices.

• Teachers: Educators are sometimes offered special rates to encourage their engagement with the arts.

• Military personnel: Special rates may be available for military members.

• Community and loyalty members: Free or paid loyalty programs can give members access to exclusive discounts on tickets and concessions. 

        Discounts for loyal or bulk purchasers

• Season ticket holders: Theaters incentivize season-long commitments with lower per-show prices and exclusive perks like priority seating, free ticket exchanges, and discounts on concessions.

• Flex passes: To offer more flexibility than a traditional season pass, theaters may sell multi-show packages where customers can pick and choose which performances they attend.
• 
  

• Group sales: When patrons buy a certain number of tickets together (often 10 or more), they receive a discount. Larger groups may get additional benefits.

We now teach mobile filmmaking effectively. We offer  a structured curriculum that builds on core storytelling principles and gradually introduces more complex techniques tailored to each specific skill levels. 

The course culminates in a final project where students will apply their knowledge, with special guest filmmakers providing inspiration and real-world insights. 

             Special guest filmmakers

The guests will cover a range of expertise to appeal to all levels and showcase different career paths. 

• Mobile film festival winner: A filmmaker who has successfully created award-winning work using only a smartphone can inspire students by demonstrating the artistic potential of the technology.
• Cinematographer or camera operator: Discusses lighting, composition, camera movement, and practical "DIY" gear hacks for mobile devices.
• Sound designer or mixer: Teaches the underappreciated but critical importance of high-quality audio and explains how to capture and design sound effectively.
• Writer/director: Shares their process for developing ideas, scripting, and directing actors, emphasizing that story is always the priority.
• Editor: Walks students through the editing process, from assembling a sequence on a phone or computer to the final color grading and export. 

      Curriculum for different skill levels

                         Starters

                 (One-day workshop)

This is for absolute beginners with no prior film experience, focusing on the basics of using their phone and finding a story.

• Storytelling with photos: 

A simple exercise where students take 15–20 still photos with their phone to tell a short narrative. This teaches shot selection and storyboarding without the complexity of sound or video.

• The "make a cup of coffee" project: A hands-on activity where students film a simple, everyday action and practice the basics of shot framing , camera movement, and editing.
• Equipment 101: A brief overview of the phone's native camera app and recommended free editing apps like CapCut or iMovie.
• Final project: Create a 30-second silent film using the photos or footage captured in class.

                            Beginners 

                   (Weekend workshop)

This builds on the foundations of the starter level, introducing more filmmaking theory and hands-on production.

• The grammar of film: Teach core concepts such as the rule of thirds, the 180-degree rule, different shot types (e.g., wide, medium, close-up), and basic camera movements.
• Storytelling fundamentals
• Introduction to sound:
• Editing workshop
• Final project: 

                         Intermediates

                   (Multi-week courses

               Advanced (Intensive lab)

• Professional workflows:
• Logistics and crew management: 
• Refining 
• Festival strategy: 
• Final project: 

Notable figures

The BRG stage has been graced by numerous performers,producers, and writers, who either have or have gone on to have influential careers. Famous alumni that have dawned A BRG stage include but are not limited to: 

• Whoopi Goldberg-https://www.facebook.com/whoopigoldberg/

• Danny Glover-https://www.televisionacademy.com/bios/danny-glover

• Paul Mooney-https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=mooneyworld

• Katt Williams-https://www.kattwilliamslive.com

• Mega producer -David E Talbert

               https://www.davidetalbert.com/

• Teri Vaughn-https://www.terrijvaughndirector.com/about/

• Lunelle-https://heyluenell.com/

• Kellita Smith-https://x.com/kellitasmith1

• Maya Angelou-Maya Angelou Website
  https://www.mayaangelou.com

• Ishmael Reed-MacArthur Genius-https://ishmaelreed.ag-sites.net/index.htm

• Claire Singleton-https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100008424880714

• Rome Neal-https://www.romeneal.com/

• Mari Evans-https://poets.org/poet/mari-evans

• Carman Moore-https://www.carmanmoore.com/

• Herb Geller-https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herb_Geller

• Faye Carol-https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Faye_Carol

• Kehlani Parrish-https://www.kehlani.com/

• Denisha Simon-https://deedeesimon.com/

• Terry McMillan-https://www.terrymcmillan.com/

• Nikki Giovanni-https://www.nikki-giovanni.com/

• Art Evans-https://www.televisionacademy.com/bios/art-evans

• Brely Evans-https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brely_Evans

• Dick Gregory-https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dick_Gregory

• Melba Moore-https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Melba_Moore

• Ntozaka Shange-https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ntozake_Shange

• Nikki Giovanni-https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nikki_Giovanni

        ……. And many more

The BRG's tradition of offering a creative space has long encouraged people, from celebrated figures to local enthusiasts, to experience and fall in love with the Black Theater. The magic of Black theater captivates audiences with its rich narratives and cultural significance. Discover the stories inside the theater named Birel L. Vaughn (founder) at South Berkeleys crown jewel,  the Black Repertory Group.

 https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=2RwG0XZ5kHc

Executive/Artistic Director

Dr. Mona Vaughn Scott

Managing /Development Director

Sean Vaughn Scott

Office Manager

Pamela Spikes

Stage Co-ordination/Props

Nora Burnette

Fundraising Team:

Mary Maultsby

House Manager

Baron Cope

Sound/Video/Projections

Antoine Davis

Lighting/Soundtracks-

Rick Patrick

Technical Equipment-

Paul Smith

Book Keeping:

Martha Knox

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=YfVC5lEsESs

              BOARD OF DIRECTORS

              EXECUTIVE BOARD

President- Dr. Monika Davis

Vice President-Irene Walker

Secretary-Martha Know

Treasurer-James Gordon

                Members

-Dr. Mona Vaughn Scott

-Harry Karsten  

-Afi Tiombe Kabon

-Dr. Harold Orr

-Cheryl Williams

-*Ishmael Reed

-Irma Parker

-Helena Hill

                  Advisory Board

                           &

     Freinds of Black Repertory Group 

-Mansour Ideen

-Sean Vaughn Scott

-Paul Smith

-Rick Patrick

Rome Neal

Tanya Williams

Omawale  Fowles

Mary Jeffries

Kim Stewart

April Green

Looking for a job in the performing arts? Check out our current job openings and join the team at Black Repertory Group . From marketing to production to box office, we have a variety of opportunities available.

A successful stage theater relies on a diverse team of artistic, production, technical, and administrative staff to deliver and support performances. Roles can vary depending on the theater's size and whether it is a for-profit or non-profit organization. Artistic and creativeThis team is responsible for the creative vision and the onstage performance.

• Playwright: Writes or adapts the script for the stage production.

• Director: Guides the actors and creative team to bring the playwright's vision to life.

• Casting Director: Manages the audition process and selects actors for the roles in a production.

• Actors: Perform in the productions.
• Choreographer: Creates and coordinates all dance and movement elements for the show.

              Music Director: Oversees the musical    

              elements of a show, which can include  

              conducting the orchestra.

• Musicians: Play instruments as part of the performance. 

• Dramaturg: Conducts research on a play's historical and cultural context to assist the director and actors.
• Literary Manager: Reads and evaluates new scripts for consideration. 

            Production and technical

              This group builds and operates the 

                physical world of the play, both    

              backstage and onstage.

• Producer: Manages the overall production, including budgeting, contracts, and marketing.
• Production Manager: Coordinates all the complex behind-the-scenes details and schedules.
• Technical Director: Manages the technical aspects of the production, overseeing elements like scenery construction, rigging, and stage equipment.
• Stage Manager: Manages the rehearsal process, and on cue, directs the backstage crew during a live performance.
• Stagehands / Stage Crew: Run the show by moving sets, managing curtains, and handling special effects.
• Set Designer / Builder: Designs and constructs the physical environment of the stage.
• Props Master: Is responsible for managing all the props used in a production.
• Lighting Designer / Technician: Designs and operates the lighting to enhance the mood and atmosphere.
• Sound Designer / Engineer: Creates and manages all auditory elements, from sound effects to microphone mixing.
• Costume Designer: Designs and creates the outfits for all the characters.
• Wardrobe Crew: Manages and maintains costumes throughout the production run.
• Makeup Artist: Applies makeup and prosthetics to actors to create their characters. 
• 
  

    Administration and front-of-house

            This is the business-focused and  

            customer-facing side of the theater.

• Executive Director / Managing Director: Leads the administrative and financial aspects of the theater, often working alongside the Artistic Director.
• Company Manager: 
• Development Director: Oversees fundraising efforts, donor relations, and grant writing.
• Marketing Director: Promotes productions and sells tickets through advertising, social media, and community outreach.
• Box Office Manager: Supervises ticket sales and manages box office staff.
• House Manager: Manages the lobby and seating areas, ensuring the safety.
• Ushers / Front-of-House Staff: We