WHY SPADES?:
The card game Spades holds a special place in Black culture, where it is more than just a game—it’s a beloved social tradition, a source of pride, and a way to foster community. In many Black households, learning to play Spades is considered a rite of passage and an opportunity to pass on history. Older family members often teach younger generations “unspoken rules” and strategies of the game, while also sharing stories, experiences, traditions, and often unknown history of our people.

Black theatres are vital for preserving and showcasing Black stories, voices, and perspectives, yet they often struggle to secure the resources needed to thrive. This challenge is due to many factors including historical inequities like gatekeeping and systemic racism, as well as community funding gaps and biased philanthropy to name a few. With this lack of funding as a persistent challenge, this event was created to mind the gap, marrying the opportunity to support our stories and voices with the joy and tradition of this beloved card game.

Wanna play?! SIGN UP FOR THE EVENT HERE!

THE PEOPLE

JASMINE M RUSH:

JASMINE M RUSH (she/her) is an award-winning Brooklyn-based, B L A C K Actress & Creative born and raised in Milwaukee, WI. Classically trained, she has worked nationally on stage, film, and television, and served as a coach and teacher for acting professionals around the world. Jasmine is the founder of Sweet Milk Studios and the annual Black Arts "Run It!" Spades Fundraiser. She is a core company member of Quick Silver Theater Company (NYC) and The Grove Theatre NYC. https://www.jasminemrush.com/

The Grove Theatre NYC:
The Grove is a theatrical home that heals and empowers the Black community through innovation and transformative storytelling. Born from the collective vision of Nedra Marie Taylor and A.J. Muhammad, the company was founded in 2020, with the vision to build an Off-Broadway theatre complex for an by the Black Community. Through the company's mission, Black artists and the community continue the journey of growth and healing together, through the arts.

The Grove Theatre NYC is a 501c3 theatre organization, graciously sponsoring this fundraiser with use of their charitable org status. https://www.thegrovenyc.com/

Venue - SHANE'S Brooklyn:
Shane's is a Black owned restaurant in the heart of Crown Heights. Established in 2002, Shane's has become a staple for Black American comfort food, offering locals good eats in a laid-back setting found nowhere better than in the heart of Brooklyn.https://www.facebook.com/ShanesBrooklyn/

The National Spade Players Association:
The National Spades Players Association (NSPA) was founded with the mission of uniting Spades enthusiasts from across America and reviving its joyous spirit. This remarkable association has created a vibrant platform that brings together fans, allowing them to share their love for this classic card game. https://www.nationalspadesplayers.com/

Black Arts Run It Spades Fundraiser

Grab your Spades partner, get your game face on, and help support Black Theatre!