3GT Investigates commissions teams of women playwrights to deeply interrogate the critical issues of our time using investigative theatre techniques. Each project is headed by a 3GT playwright who has a passionate commitment to the subject at hand. Community partner organizations ensure those affected by the issues explored are involved in the research/writing process and invited to see performances.
WHY
The emergence of investigative and documentary theater in recent decades has paved the way for dramatic work that evokes a visceral response to real-world issues from audience and performers. 3GT Investigates was designed to allow our writers to respond with immediacy to current social justice issues that shape our lives and infringe our civil rights. Because 3GT believes the most critical issues confronting our community today arise from profound crises affecting Black women, as of 2020 the 3GT Investigates program is exclusively dedicated to supporting and giving voice to Black women playwrights.
WHEN
We put up “scratch” performances of 3GT Investigates scripts in development as the works progress. To learn more about the current project (either as a writer or a sponsor), “3GT Investigates: Black, Missing, Murdered, Trafficked,” contact Program Director Cat Brooks. To inquire about bringing our 2018 play, “3GT Investigates: Birth Rights,” to your community space, home or workplace, contact Zach Kopciak.
“Documentary theatre is theatre on steroids: it’s not just about our humanity, it’s about real, specific people and their/our everyday reality. 3GT Investigates offers local women playwrights the chance to be the center, the voice that tells these stories… There are tons of stories out there, waiting to be told, supported and produced.”
-VIRGINIA BLANCO, ACTOR (3GT INVESTIGATES: BIRTH RIGHTS)
Cat Brooks, Program Director
Actor, playwright, poet, political activist. . . the multitalented Cat Brooks began her theater career at the age of 8 and later obtained her B.A. in theater with an emphasis on classical works. After graduation, she studied at the Royal National Theater Studio in London. Cat has performed across the world including playing Lady Macbeth at the Edinburgh Theater Festival in Scotland. In July 2016, Cat starred in 3GT’s production of Robin Bradford’s LOW HANGING FRUIT, for which she received a BATCC Best Actress nomination. In 2021, Cat’s 2018 Festival-winning play ‘TASHA will have its 3GT world premiere at Z Below. Current Project: 3GT Investigates: Black, Missing, Murdered, Trafficked. Community Partner: SHADE
3Girls Theatre develops, promotes and presents new plays written by SF Bay Area Black Women.
