IBTF Media
Thank you for your interest in covering the International Black Theatre Festival. Individuals and organizations interested in media coverage of IBTF are invited to submit a Media Credential Request Form for consideration. To allow time for review and processing, completed forms must be received by July 8, 2026, for media access. Please review the IBTF Media Guide below for more information on coverage opportunities, credential requests, and festival media policies.
2026 Media Guide
What is the International Black Theatre Festival?
The International Black Theatre Festival is a multi-day celebration of Black theatre, arts, and culture from around the world. The festival features stage productions, readings, workshops, panels, and cultural experiences showcasing artists and stories from the African diaspora.
How do I use my media credential to cover IBTF?
A media credential will allow the journalist to attend up to 3 shows daily throughout the festival for news coverage or reviews only. All media representatives must have a ticket to enter the theatre.
You must send the media office your list of shows for the entire week no later than July 17th. The box office will email you directly with your ticket order. Once issued, tickets cannot be exchanged. Substitutions are not allowed.
Your credential does not admit you to a sold-out performance. The credential is non-transferable.
Media representatives must arrive at least 10 minutes before the show begins. We ask you to arrive 30 minutes early if camera setup is needed. Festival management reserves the right to revoke credentials.
The on-site Media Relations’ Office is located in the Corpening Room, located on the 2nd level in the Winston-Salem Marriott, 425 N. Cherry St.
Can I video or record performances?
If you are approved for recording a performance for your story, you may only record the first 10 minutes of any given performance. This is based on approval from the media relations department and or the artist.
How do I obtain an interview with a Celebrity / Special Guest?
All requests for celebrity interviews must be made through the media relations department. Media representatives will be on hand to assist with scheduling those interviews. A separate interview room will be provided for those interviews.
Are there scheduled events for media?
The Opening Day News Conference takes place on Monday, July 27, at 12pm, where media and the general public will hear from celebrity guests and get a look at the week ahead. The event is held in the main lobby of our host hotel, the Winston-Salem Marriott.
There is a daily live news conference at noon via live stream on all IBTF socials Tuesday-Friday. Updates on shows, live celebrity guest interviews, and much more information will be shared.
How do I obtain media access?
To obtain media access for the International Black Theatre Festival, click on the Media Access Form, complete, sign, and submit.
To allow time for review and processing, completed forms must be received by July 8, 2026, for media access.
How do I contact the IBTF Media Relations Department?
Contact: Brian McLaughlin
Office: 336.723.2266 ext. 1305
Email: media@ncblackrep.org
As Director of Media Relations, Brian McLaughlin leads media engagement for the International Black Theatre Festival (IBTF). He oversees press coverage and serves as the primary contact for media inquiries, appearing in The New York Times, USA Today, BET, CNN, NBC, CBS, among other international and regional outlets. Brian and his staff are eager to help those journalists covering the Festival get the most out of their visit.
Your Backstage Pass
Don’t miss a moment of the magic. Join our e-News to stay connected on upcoming productions, programs, and more!
An electrifying week of theatrical performances, cultural events, and community programs, IBTF features mainstage productions, staged readings, workshops, panel discussions, and more, showcasing artists and stories from around the world.
Contact
336.723.2266
info@ncblackrep.org
419 N Spruce St., Winston-Salem, NC 27101