African Theatre Artistes Society

Los Angeles

African Stories: Global Impact.

Immerse Yourself in the beauty of African Artistry.

This is a home for African stories told on stage, past and present. It connects audiences to the voices, cultures, and theatrical traditions that shape African drama across the continent and beyond. Through plays, playwrights, and performance resources, it preserves and promotes Africa’s rich theatrical heritage for future generations.

OUR MISSION

At ATARS, we are dedicated to the art of African storytelling, where theatre transcends entertainment and becomes an immersive, soul-stirring experience. Our productions are a celebration of African heritage, blending rhythmic music, mesmerizing dance, and evocative drama to create a spectacle of unparalleled grandeur.

Who Are We?

We are a collective of passionate artists dedicated to bringing the richness of African theatre to the heart of Los Angeles. More than just performers, we are storytellers, culture-bearers, and visionaries committed to amplifying the voices of an underrepresented community in the arts.

Sponsor Packages

01.

Presenting Sponsor
  • Presenting Sponsor recognition at ALL (4) Anniversary Season Events
  • 25 VIP TICKETS TO ALL (4) Anniversary Season Events
  • 25 TICKETS TO THE VIP EXPERIENCE FOR ALL (4) Anniversary Season Events

02.

Legacy Sponsor
  • 15 VIP TICKETS TO ALL (4) Anniversary Season Events
  • 15 TICKETS TO THE VIP EXPERIENCE FOR ALL (4) Anniversary Season Events
  • Listed as LEGACY Sponsor in all printed 25th Anniversary materials

03.

Amazing Sponsor
  • 10 VIP TICKETS TO (2) Anniversary Season Events of Choice
  • 10 TICKETS TO THE VIP EXPERIENCE for two Anniversary Season Events of Choice
  • Listed as AMAZING Sponsor in all printed 25th Anniversary materials

04.

Grace Sponsor
  • 8 VIP TICKETS TO (2) Anniversary Season Events of Choice
  • 8 TICKETS TO THE VIP EXPERIENCE for (2) Anniversary Season Events of Choice
  • Listed as GRACE Sponsor in (2) printed 25th Anniversary events

Prof. Bayo Akinfemi

Founder and Artistic Director

A two-time Best Actor GEMINI awards nominee for Human Cargo and The Border, Bayo was a series regular for five seasons on a Chuck Lorre sitcom titled Bob Hearts Abishola for CBS / Warner Bros. He also worked as the dialect coach and cultural consultant for the show. His other acting credits include Marvel’s Agents of Shield, Criminal Minds, NCIS LA, Survivor’s Remorse and Bulletproof Monk Bayo is also a director. His credits include episodes of Bob Hearts Abishola, a short film titled Rump and Nollywood feature films Busted Life and Paparazzi: Eye in the Dark.

Our Team

Andrea Meshel
Faithfulness Adebayo-Ige
Georgina Okon
Chet Anekwe

Upcoming Shows

This is a landmark theatrical event celebrating African culture, storytelling, and artistic excellence. The production offers a unique chance to be part of a bold, culturally significant project that blends traditional African performance aesthetics with contemporary theatrical expression. If you are passionate, disciplined, and inspired by ensemble-driven art, we want to hear from you.

Auditions: January 2026
Location: USC
Dates: Late February 2026 – Mid April
Time: 6:00 – 10:00pm; Monday – Friday
Duration: Approximately 6 weeks

Engagement
ATARS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. This engagement is primarily voluntary, however stipends will be offered to all selected performers in recognition of their time, artistry, and contribution.

How to apply
Please email the following to info@africanplays.org with the subject line: “The Gods Are Not to Blame Casting”

Resume

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Links to reels or performance clips (optional but encouraged)

Join us
This is more than a production; it is a cultural journey, a celebration of heritage, and an opportunity to bring one of Africa’s greatest dramatic masterpieces to life on a global stage. We invite you to be part of something powerful, meaningful, and unforgettable.