African-american theatre

Definition

African-American theatre refers to theatrical works created by, for, and about African Americans, which explore the cultural, social, and political experiences of the African American community. This form of theatre has roots in African traditions and encompasses a range of styles and genres, including drama, comedy, musical theatre, and more, reflecting the diverse narratives and histories of black lives in America.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. African-American theatre emerged as a response to the racial discrimination and societal challenges faced by black people in America, often using performance as a means of storytelling and resistance.
2. The first documented African American play was 'The Black Doctor' by William Henry Brown in 1858, showcasing early attempts at representing black life on stage.
3. During the Harlem Renaissance, African-American theatre gained prominence with works that highlighted themes of racial pride and social justice.
4. Prominent venues for African-American theatre include the Apollo Theater in Harlem, which has historically been a launching pad for many black artists.
5. Contemporary African-American theatre continues to evolve, addressing current issues such as identity politics, systemic racism, and cultural heritage while gaining recognition on Broadway and beyond.

Review Questions

• How did the Harlem Renaissance influence African-American theatre?
  • The Harlem Renaissance had a significant impact on African-American theatre by providing a platform for black artists to express their creativity and cultural identity. It fostered an environment where playwrights could explore themes of race, resilience, and pride through their works. The movement not only elevated the visibility of African American artists but also encouraged collaborations that led to iconic productions celebrating black experiences.
• Discuss the role of August Wilson in shaping modern African-American theatre.
  • August Wilson played a crucial role in shaping modern African-American theatre through his profound exploration of the black experience across different decades. His series of plays known as 'The Pittsburgh Cycle' reflects the complexities of African American life from the early 1900s to the 1990s. Wilson's work emphasizes cultural heritage and addresses themes of struggle, identity, and community, making significant contributions to both literature and performance.
• Evaluate the significance of the Black Arts Movement on contemporary African-American theatre.
  • The Black Arts Movement significantly influenced contemporary African-American theatre by promoting works that centered on black identity and culture during a time of social upheaval. This movement challenged traditional narratives by encouraging artists to create performances that were unapologetically authentic to their experiences. As a result, contemporary African-American theatre continues to draw inspiration from this period by addressing current social issues while celebrating rich cultural traditions and fostering a deeper understanding of black lives in America.

Related terms

Harlem Renaissance: A cultural and artistic movement during the 1920s that celebrated African American culture, literature, and arts, giving rise to significant contributions in theatre.

August Wilson: A prominent African American playwright known for his series of ten plays called 'The Pittsburgh Cycle,' which depict the African American experience throughout the 20th century.

Black Arts Movement: An artistic and cultural movement in the 1960s and 1970s that emphasized the importance of black identity and produced a wealth of literature, poetry, music, and theatre focused on African American themes.