New Heritage Theatre Group, the oldest Black non-profit theater company in New York City, originated in 1964 under the name New Heritage Repertory Theatre by the late Roger Furman, a revered playwright, director, actor and lecturer, who began his career in the 1940s with the American Negro Theatre in Harlem. Its mission, to preserve and sustain classic works of Black theatre.

In 1983, Voza Rivers, an award winning music and theatre producer took over the company, and reorganized under the name New Heritage Theatre Group (NHTG). Voza expanded the mission to provide training, experience and international explosure to veteran and emerging artists. New Heritage Theatre Group presentations reflect the historical, social and political experiences of African and Latino descendants in America and abroad.

In 1997, Jamal Joseph, an award winning writer, director, documentary film maker and educator, became the Executive Artistic Director.

Katsuya Abe, International Producer, joined New Heritage Theate Group in 1987 and co-produced numerous events in the United States and abroad, including: Jazz for Peace, International Piano Festival with People for Disabilities and many others.

The nonprofit organization has three major program divisions: