Seattle’s Intiman Theatre has announced the line-up for its 2016 festival, which will celebrate American plays written by black women. From May 24 – October 2, the festival will highlight new works and voices through professional productions, training programs, readings and workshops. Featured in the slate are plays by Lydia R. Diamond, Alice Childress, Dominique Morisseau and Adrienne Kennedy.

“Throughout Seattle, people are having a growing conversation about how we see ourselves and our neighbors. With this dialogue comes a demand for bold, diverse stories,” reads a statement on the organization’s website. “In response to this need, Intiman Theatre is proud to present a city-wide festival dedicated to great American plays by Black women that create community and deepen understanding.”

The festival’s mission statement brings to light Lynn Nottage’s recent criticism of the lack of diverse voices on major stages. The Pulitzer Prize winner described theatre as the “last bastion of segregation.” Read the full story here.

Intiman Theatre Festival’s major productions will include Diamond’s Stick Fly, which will run May 24 – June 19, and Childress’ Wedding Band: A Love/Hate Story in Black and White. Among the readings featured will be Morisseau’s Sunset Baby, Tanya Barfield’s Bright Half Life and Sojourners by Mfonsio Udofia.

“Together, we are going to create a moment worthy of national attention. One that says these writers are valued – even in the 5th whitest city in the country,” stated co-curator Valerie Curtis-Newton in an online statement. “That says ‘Look at how rich the fabric of our community is. Look at how we embrace the challenge of bridging our differences. Look at how we are willing to face the fear around confronting the issue of race.’ We believe that the stories these writers tell are important for everyone to hear. And we are just brave enough and just crazy enough to take the leap.”

Festival passes will go on sale in March and can be purchased online at intiman.org/2016-festival/