In August 1975 several Atlantans gathered to discuss and plan what were to become the Phoenix Arts and Theatre Company. While the assembled members had no firm ideas or goals, they were strong in their desire to encourage the growth of the arts in Atlanta. Incorporated on July 14, 1976, the Phoenix Arts and Theatre Company set as its reasons for being the fostering and development of visual, dramatic, and musical arts, and the encouragement of community participation in and appreciation for these various art forms. The company initiated and sponsored activities, while also lending support to other organizations. The Phoenix Arts and Theatre Company first project was the monthly publication of Afro-American Arts Newsletter, which appeared in February 1977. The Afro-American Arts has served as an information source for communicating arts related events and issues to the artistic and local community in the city of Atlanta and its environs. The Phoenix Arts and Theatre Company Inc. eventually became one of Atlanta's staunchest supporters and organizer of the development African American dramatic, visual, and musical arts in Atlanta. The organization established a center dedicated to the showcasing of Black artistic achievements. The board members of the Phoenix Arts and Theatre Company Inc., were: Mr. Calvin J. Kenly, President; Ms. Joan Stewart, Vice President; Ms. Louise Willingham, Secretary; Mrs. Patricia Kenly, Treasurer and Araminta Lett and Ms. Faye Tate, members.