Barbara Ann Teer was a trailblazing actress, playwright, producer, and visionary cultural artist who made significant contributions to Black history. She was the founder and artistic director of the National Black Theatre (NBT) in Harlem, New York City. Teer established the NBT in 1968 as a platform to celebrate and explore African American culture through the performing arts.

Under her leadership, the National Black Theatre became a hub for creativity and a vital cultural institution in the African American community. Teer was known for her innovative and socially conscious approach to theater, using the stage as a platform to address issues of race, identity, and social justice.

Throughout her career, Barbara Ann Teer mentored and inspired countless artists, helping to launch the careers of many Black theater professionals. Her impact on Black history and the performing arts continues to be felt today through the legacy of the National Black Theatre and the artists she influenced.