WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Truliant Federal Credit Union has once again become a sponsor for the 2007 National Black Theatre Festival.

As in 2005, Truliant hosted a celebrity reception that kicked off the weeklong activities of this year's Festival. The event included a special portrait that Truliant commissioned of the late Larry Leon Hamlin, founder and visionary of the National Black Theatre Festival.

“Truliant is delighted to sponsor the 2007 National Black Theatre Festival,” said Marc Schaefer, President/CEO of Truliant. “This wonderful event brings so much to Winston-Salem and the surrounding communities. To be able to provide support for this type of outreach program that brings talent and guests from around the world, as well as support local art initiatives, is very much in line with our goal of giving back to the communities we serve. “

The National Black Theatre Festival is an international outreach program of the North Carolina Black Repertory Company. This historic event illuminates the powerful theatrical spirit and extraordinary talent of black performers, designers, directors and producers, from across the country. The event is produced to help sustain global Black theatre and attracts thousands of guests to Winston-Salem therefore, having economic impact in the millions.