A Legacy of Black Storytelling.
A Stage for Today.
For over 55 years, M Ensemble has championed powerful Black narratives through bold theatrical productions that inspire, challenge, and connect generations.
M Ensemble Honored with Prestigious Theatre Longevity Award
Recipient of the Woodie King Jr. Theatre Longevity Award at the 2026 International Black Theatre Festival
We are proud to share that M Ensemble Company has been selected to receive the Woodie King Jr. Theatre Longevity Award during the Opening Night Gala of the 2026 International Black Theatre Festival in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
This distinguished honor recognizes M Ensemble's extraordinary legacy of artistic excellence, cultural impact, and commitment to amplifying Black voices through theatre.
Since 1971, M Ensemble has inspired audiences through powerful storytelling that challenges, uplifts, and connects generations.
As Miami's oldest Black professional theatre company, this national recognition celebrates the artists, supporters, audiences, and community partners who have helped sustain our mission for more than five decades.
We are deeply honored to receive this award and look forward to celebrating this milestone with the national theatre community on July 27, 2026.
Thank you for being part of the M Ensemble journey. The best is yet to come.
2026 Woodie King Jr. Theatre Longevity Award Recipient
Honored by the International Black Theatre Festival
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
July 27, 2026
Celebrating 55 Years of Black Theatre Excellence
National Recognition
✦ About Us
Our Story
Founded in 1971, M Ensemble was created to amplify Black voices and bring culturally resonant stories to the stage. What began as a mission to create space for underrepresented narratives has grown into one of South Florida’s most respected theatrical institutions.
Today, M Ensemble continues that legacy — producing work that honors the past, speaks to the present, and invites new audiences into the conversation.
✦ Featured projects
our work speaks for itself
✦Reviews
M Ensemble Revives A Comedy Icon
With ‘Jackie Moms Mabley’
Reviving a legend is risky business, but M Ensemble Company opens its 2026 season by stepping into the spotlight with “Jackie Moms Mabley: Live at the Apollo,” a reenactment of a 1962 comedy show by a classic American figure. The play, written by the late T.G. Cooper, founder of M Ensemble, was first performed in 1995 when M Ensemble performed it in a two-week stint in Miami Shores at the Shores Performing Arts Theatre after a run in North Miami.
Stepping into the role of Mabley is Barbie Lazaro, directed by local actor and FIU professor Melvin Huffnagle.
The company chose this production wisely: it’s a comedy providing laughs in serious times, it’s Black History Month and it profiles an iconic African-American woman.
With roots going back to Black vaudeville, also known as the Chitlin’ Circuit, Jackie “Moms” Mabley was a trailblazing, queer Black woman who inspired comedy legends like Redd Foxx, Joan Rivers, Richard Pryor, Eddie Murphy, Wanda Sykes and Whoopi Goldberg.
Support the Arts.
Sustain the Legacy.
Your support allows M Ensemble to continue producing powerful work, nurturing Black artists, and ensuring these stories remain accessible for generations to come.
Thank you to Our Sponsors
M ENSEMBLE COMPANY 2025-2026 SEASON
At M Ensemble, theatre isn’t just entertainment, it’s education, elevation, and empowerment. Through performances, outreach, and community engagement, we uplift voices often unheard and stories that deserve center stage.
building excellence, one Production at a time
✦ Testimonials
Theatre at its Best
For over four decades, M Ensemble has moved, inspired, and entertained audiences through powerful storytelling that celebrates Black history, culture, and lived experience. Hear from patrons, artists, and community members whose lives have been touched by the unforgettable performances on our stage.
Bringing my students to M Ensemble was an incredible experience. The performances make history come alive and open meaningful conversations about culture, identity, and community.
Bringing my students to M Ensemble was an incredible experience. The performances make history come alive and open meaningful conversations about culture, identity, and community.
Every performance at M Ensemble is powerful. The stories are moving, the acting is exceptional, and the cultural depth stays with you long after the curtain falls. It’s truly theatre at its best.
The talent on this stage is extraordinary. M Ensemble consistently delivers performances that are thoughtful, powerful, and deeply rooted in cultural storytelling.
If you love theatre, support the arts, or care about strengthening community through culture, there’s a place for you with M Ensemble. From attending performances to becoming part of our network of supporters, your involvement helps keep the legacy alive.
Email: [email protected]
Office: 305.705.3218
Box Office: 305.200.5043
Business hours
Monday: 9am to 5pm
Tueday: 9am to 5pm
wednesday: 9am to 5pm
Thursday: 9am to 5pm
friday: 9am to 5pm
Copyright 2026. M Ensemble Company. All rights reserved.