History
Tabia, based in San Jose, and is in its twentieth season of performances in the Bay Area. The name Tabia, is a Swahili word for “talented,” and represents the creativity, devotion and diversity of the Ensemble's pool of artists. The Ensemble has earned a reputation for presenting high quality productions that celebrate and explore the African-American experience ranging from touching dramas to clever comedies. Tabia African-American Theatre Ensemble consists of a dedicated group of individuals who have been involved in the theatre community for the past (20) years. Tabia is one of the performing arts groups under San Jose Multicultural Artists Guild, a non–profit organization established in 1990. Viera Whye has been the Artistic Director for Tabia since its inception in 1985. Tabia's founding members were Ann Johnson, Robert Parker, Rudy Morris, Arlene Sagun, Adaku Davis, and Viera Whye.

Our purpose then and now is to present plays written by and about African-Americans, and the African influence and culture throughout the world. We bring the unique creativity of African-Americans to the stage, that have universal themes, enlighten, educate and entertain our audiences with powerful messages and spirit. Tabia is the only group in the Southbay that provides consistent opportunity for African-Americans to gain visibility and experience on the stage. Our goal is to produce high quality, thought provoking, professional theatre that enriches the lives of our audiences; and fosters positive relationships and understanding among people of varied backgrounds. Tabia produces two stage productions each year; and also performs as a traveling troupe, taking its touring Black History Show to schools, festivals, corporations, churches, and conferences throughout California. Tabia's traveling show is a dramatic presentation that is enlightening, educational and highly entertaining. Tabia presents through historical figures, poetry, song, and dance the contributions and culture of African-Americans

Tabia's core group members are Cheryl Bennett-Scales, Glenna Brambill-Williams, Adaku Davis, Carrie Farley, Donna McCraney, Sharon Moore, Arlene Sagun, Sonya Stamper, Postoria Aguirre, and Viera Whye. Associate members are D'Cember Williams, Hedwig Gayle Rucker, Briana Swann, and Ann Johnson. Resident Director, Buddy Butler.

Productions

The Trial of One Short-Sighted Black Woman…
by Karani Leslie

Hair Stories,
by Urban Bush Women

Jungle Bells
by Barry "Shabaka" Henley

Waiting to be Invited,
by Sherry Shepherd Massat

Flyin' West,
by Pearle Cleage

Steal Away,
by Ramona King

Yellow Eyes,
by Migdalia Cruz

Shakin' the Mess Outta Misery,
by Shay Youngblood

Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus Boycott,
by Sue Greenberg

Lady Day at Emerson's Bar & Grill,
by Lanie Robertson

A Soldier's Play,
by Charles Fuller

From the Mississippi Delta,
by Endesha Ida Mae Holland

Women Behind Walls,
by Claire Braz-Valentine

Langston Live,
poetry of Langston Hughes adapted by Tabia

Joe Turner's Come and Gone,
by August Wilson

Los Vejigantes,
adapted by Rob Robinson

S isters,
by Marsha Jackson

Ma Rainey's Black Bottom,
by August Wilson

Home,
by Samm-Art Williams

Spunk,
by George C. Wolfe

I am that I am: Woman Black,
by Adilah Barnes

A Long Time Since Yesterday ,
by P.J. Gibson

The Colored Museum,
by George C. Wolfe

The Trip,
by Crystal Rhodes