Common Ground Theatre Presents “An Evening With Kamau Kenyatta,” Featuring Daneen Wilburn and Special Guest Ted Lange

September 22, 2026

Common Ground Theatre, one of America's longest-running Black theatre companies, is hosting a fundraising benefit concert on September 26, 2026, at Morse High School Auditorium in San Diego. The event will showcase performances by renowned music producer Kamau Kenyatta, vocalist Daneen Wilburn, and special guest Ted Lange, an award-winning playwright and actor who serves as the theatre's Artist in Residence. All proceeds from the concert will support Common Ground Theatre's ongoing artistic programming, community engagement initiatives, and efforts to make culturally relevant theatre accessible throughout San Diego.

Who is affected

Common Ground Theatre (the beneficiary organization)
San Diego community members and theatre audiences
Black artists, stories, and audiences served by Common Ground Theatre
Dr. Yolanda Marie Franklin, Executive Artistic Director of Common Ground Theatre
Performing artists: Kamau Kenyatta, Daneen Wilburn, and Ted Lange
Emerging and established talent who receive opportunities through the theatre
Multiple generations who have been served by the theatre over six decades

What action is being taken

Common Ground Theatre is inviting San Diego residents to attend the benefit concert
The organization is hosting "An Evening with Kamau Kenyatta" on September 26, 2026
Common Ground Theatre is building its next chapter while honoring its artistic legacy
The organization is developing new partnerships, productions, and opportunities for artists and audiences
The theatre is continuing its artistic programming, community engagement, and artist development

Why it matters

This benefit concert matters because it provides crucial financial support for Common Ground Theatre, one of the longest-running Black theatre companies in America with over six decades of service to San Diego. The organization serves as a vital cultural institution that preserves Black stories, provides opportunities for artists, and creates spaces where communities can see their experiences reflected onstage. The fundraising effort will enable the theatre to continue making culturally relevant theatre accessible to audiences throughout the region while maintaining its commitment to artistic programming, community engagement, and artist development for future generations.

What's next

The benefit concert will take place on Saturday, September 26, 2026, with doors opening at 5:30 p.m. and the show starting at 6:30 p.m.
Media members are invited to cover the event
Interview opportunities may be available with Common Ground Theatre leadership and participating artists

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint