Theater. Storytelling. Community.

At Narrative Arts, we believe that theater is more than performance—it’s a powerful tool for storytelling, cultural exchange, and social change. CoLab brings artists and communities together to create original, place-based theater that amplifies underrepresented voices and explores the issues that shape our region.

From original performances to multi-year residencies, CoLab supports artists in developing new work that reflects the lived experiences of our communities. We collaborate with performers, writers, musicians, and organizers to create original productions rooted in shared stories, history, and culture.

Performances, workshops, and residencies take place across coastal North Carolina, in theaters, community centers, and public spaces.

A Theater for the People

CoLab is built on the idea that theater belongs to everyone. Our productions are not just about entertainment—they are spaces for dialogue, reflection, and action. Through immersive performances and community-driven storytelling, we connect audiences with the real-life experiences of the people and places that make up our region.

Original Productions

We develop and stage original plays that explore history, identity, and social issues through the lens of lived experience. Our productions are shaped by deep collaboration with local artists and community members.

Residencies & Cultural Exchange

We partner with artists, theaters, and organizations to create long-term projects that bring together diverse voices, from coastal North Carolina to national and international collaborations.

Workshops & Training

From scriptwriting and performance to community-based storytelling, we offer workshops that give participants hands-on experience in the creative process. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or stepping onto the stage for the first time, Colab is a place to build skills and share stories.

Where Our Work Happens

Our performances and projects take place in spaces where people gather:
Community theaters and cultural centers
Schools and universities
Outdoor and public spaces
Neighborhoods and gathering places

Through touring productions, digital media, and cross-disciplinary collaborations, we ensure that CoLab reaches audiences both locally and beyond.

Join Us

Are you an artist looking to develop new work?
A community member with a story to tell?
A supporter who believes in theater as a force for social change?

📩 Contact us at info@narrativearts.org
📍 Visit our performance and training spaces in Wilmington, NC
🔗 Learn more about our collaborative theater work: [Colab →]