Award-winning filmmaker and actor Jermaine Alexander’s innovative docuseries Theatre While Black has gained significant recognition, further solidifying his impact in the world of independent film. Recently, the series received the prestigious award for Best Episodic or Web Series at the Urban Fest 360°, held as part of the Global Peace Film Festival. The win highlights not only the unique storytelling within the series but also the broader cultural influence of Alexander’s work.
Theatre While Black is an exploration of Black artistry, offering an honest and humanized perspective of the Black experience. The series has steadily captured attention for its thoughtful blend of art, identity, and social commentary, aiming to challenge perspectives on race, culture, and the role of Black artists in the broader entertainment landscape. Through the series, Alexander has cultivated a space where the humanity of the artist is front and center, inviting audiences to connect through authentic storytelling rather than focusing solely on labels or stereotypes.
A Significant Milestone
The recent award win at the Urban Fest 360° is just one in a series of milestones for Theatre While Black. On September 20, 2025, the series was showcased at two major cultural events in the U.S. In Oakland, one episode of the series screened at the prestigious 23rd Oakland International Film Festival (OIFF), marking a special moment for Alexander, a Bay Area native. Although he could not attend the event in person, Alexander called on his community to support the screening, emphasizing the importance of representing and celebrating local talent.
Meanwhile, in Orlando, three episodes of Theatre While Black were featured at the Urban Fest 360° program, a key event within the Global Peace Film Festival. The festival, which took place at AFRO TV Studios on International Drive, honored Alexander’s work and nominated the series for Best Episodic or Web Series. Additionally, Urban Fest 360° celebrated the lifetime achievements of Alexander’s mentor, Danny Glover, with a Lifetime Achievement Award, making the occasion particularly significant.
An Invitation to Authentic Storytelling
Photo Courtesy: Jermaine Alexander
Reflecting on the series, Alexander shared his desire to provide a unique and immersive experience for viewers. He noted that Theatre While Black is not only about showcasing Blackness but about humanizing Black artists, presenting their stories in a way that transcends the typical narratives often associated with their identities. The series aims to explore the authentic, personal experiences that connect people, highlighting shared emotions and human moments.
Alexander’s approach challenges the way stories are told, moving away from objectifying narratives to more nuanced, relatable representations. He emphasized that real power lies in telling these human stories without relying on labels or stereotypes. As a result, Theatre While Black has resonated deeply with viewers, offering a fresh perspective on Black artistry and the entertainment world.
A Growing Cultural Impact
The growing recognition of Theatre While Black is a reflection of the broader cultural demand for diverse and authentic narratives in the entertainment industry. Beyond the recent Urban Fest 360° win, the series has also been officially selected for the Micheaux Film Festival, one of the West Coast’s premier showcases for diverse voices in cinema. This selection marks another significant milestone for Alexander, who continues to push the boundaries of his work.
Desirae L. Benson, Alexander’s publicist, expressed that the filmmaker’s artistry represents “the very heartbeat of storytelling at its most authentic.” She emphasized that Theatre While Black not only challenges societal perspectives but also fosters deeper human connections by addressing the universal themes of identity and humanity.
The Future of Theatre While Black
As the series gains traction, it becomes evident that the impact of Theatre While Black is far-reaching. Through his unique lens, Jermaine Alexander continues to amplify voices within the Black community, creating space for underrepresented stories in mainstream media. With each recognition and milestone, Alexander’s influence within the entertainment industry grows stronger, positioning him as a powerful force in both independent film and mainstream media.
With its blend of art, culture, and social commentary, Theatre While Black is more than just a docuseries. It is a platform for the voices of Black artists, telling stories that matter most—not just to one community but to all audiences seeking authenticity and connection in the stories they watch.
For media and publicity inquiries, contact publicist Desirae L. Benson.
