Arena Playhouse

Arena Playhouse
Site Information
Address	801 McCulloh St
Geo-reference	39°17′56″N 76°37′22″W
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Building Data
Building Type	Commercial
Design
Architect	Leon Bridges
Construction
Completed	1976

The Arena Players, the oldest continually performing African-American theater group, was established in 1953 on the campus of Coppin State University. The formation of the Arena Players predated the Black Arts Movement. The group was nomadic for its first ten years, performing around Baltimore at Coppin State University, the YMCA on Druid Hill Avenue, the Great Hall Theater of St. Mary’s Church, and Morgan State University. In 1960, they moved into a building on Orchard Street, which they were able to purchase in 1969. As they grew, they implemented a redevelopment plan that was financed through both public donations and government funds. Pro bono services of an architect were obtained through the Neighborhood Design Center. Leon Bridges, the first registered African American architect in Maryland, was assigned to the job. The groundbreaking ceremony occurred in AUgust 1975, and the project was completed in October 1976.