The Downtown Urban Theater Festival (DUTF) returns to New York City for a much-anticipated sixth season spring/summer 2008. Check the Schedules page for more information on performances.

 “A Celebration of Great Village Writers"

Join Miguel Algarin and Amiri Baraka for a discussion and book signing. The event will be followed by an "Open-Script Night " where participants can read an excerpt from their favorite play or their own. Prizes to be presented to best reader.

DUTF has been recognized as one of the world’s best festivals for new works and described as “not only prestigious, but a slice of heaven for playwrights who want the chance to freely express themselves.” (Theater Festivals, 2005) From an inclusive, multicultural perspective, DUTF presents works that echo the true spirit of urban life and speak to a whole new generation whose lives defy categorizing along conventional lines. It has been a catalyst and an outlet for some of NYC’s most vibrant and creative playwrights such as reg e. gaines, Mayda del Valle, Regie Cabico and Vanessa Hidary. Since its inception, DUTF has presented 52 original theatrical works that has attracted more than 6,000 theatre-goers.

Last season celebrated its fifth Anniversary and showcased a diverse collection of works covering topics ranging from love to war, prostitution to gentrification and terrorism to AIDS. The highlight of the festival was an intimate discussion with the legends Miguel Algarin, Amiri Baraka and Woodie King Jr. who shared a lifetime of urban theatre experiences. For 2007, DUTF changed gears and dedicated its efforts to the development of a groundbreaking theatrical work designed to motivate NYC high school students to pursue a college education. The work, Lessons on the A Train, will premiere in high schools in 2008.