Akbar Imhotep
2019 Ebon Dooley Honoree - Change Maker
1951-2022
Akbar Imhotep committed his entire adult life to fostering social change by educating adults and children with his captivating stories and fascinating puppets. He began his artistic career in 1977 as an actor with the Proposition Theatre Company. In 1979, he was introduced to puppetry at the Center for Puppetry Arts.
After a six-year residence at the Center, he launched his solo career, traveling around the city with his colorfully draped suitcases filled with magic, wonder and excitement. He impacts the community by affecting positive social change with his involvement in progressive cultural organizations and community improvement efforts including the Atlanta Kwanzaa Cultural Committee. His impact has grown to include the Southern region of the U.S. as well as nationally.