The Changed Landscape of Black Theater from 1977 to 2024
In November 1977, ROUTES Magazine published a compelling article titled “Theater in the Rough – The Positive Attitude of Black Theater,” which captured the essence of Black theater as a powerful medium for honest and open portrayal of Black lifestyles. This article highlighted a vibrant period in African-American cultural history, where 30+ theater companies in the New York City metropolitan area thrived, each contributing to a rich tapestry of storytelling and cultural expression.
November 1977 Theater listings P26
November 1977 Theater listings P27
November 1977 Theater Highlights
A Reflection on 1977
The late 1970s was a pivotal era for Black theater. It was a time when African-American theater companies boldly took to the stage to present narratives that resonated deeply with their communities. These companies were not just artistic enterprises; they were platforms for social commentary and cultural affirmation. The ROUTES article poignantly captured this sentiment, ending with a call to action: “Isn’t it ironic that the one medium which consistently portrays Black lifestyles openly and honestly is the one least likely to survive? Hopefully, the Black community will begin to take interest in Black theater and keep it alive. After all, if it dies — in many respects — we’ve only ourselves to blame.”
The Present Day Contrast
Fast forward to 2024, the landscape of Black theater has dramatically shifted. The number of African-American theater companies has dwindled to approximately 13 in the New York City metropolitan area.
- Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater • 405 W 55th Street, New York, NY 10019
- Black Spectrum Theatre • 177 Baisley Blvd, Jamaica, NY 11434
- Classical Theatre of Harlem • Location: NYC
- Dance Theatre of Harlem • Everett Center for the Performing Arts 466 West 152nd Street, New York, NY 10031-1814
- Harlem Stage • 150 Convent Ave, New York, NY 10031
- The Harlem Repertory Theatre • The Taco Laviera Theatre, 240 E. 123rd Street, New York, NY 10035
- IMPACT Repertory Theatre • Location: NYC
- National Black Theatre • 2031 5th Ave., NYC 10035
- Negro Ensemble Company • 303 42nd Street #501, NYC 10036
- New Federal Theatre • Location: NYC
- New Heritage Theatre Group • 229 West 135th Street, NY, NY 10030
- Take Wings and Soar • 45 Tiemann Place, New York, NY 10027
- The Billie Holiday Theatre • 1368 Fulton Street, Brooklyn, NY 11216
This stark contrast raises critical questions about the sustainability and support of Black cultural institutions. What factors have contributed to this decline? Is it a matter of funding, audience engagement, or broader societal changes?
Challenges and Opportunities
The challenges facing Black theater today are manifold. Economic pressures, competition from a myriad of entertainment options, and shifting cultural priorities all play a role. Yet, this period also presents opportunities. There is a renewed interest in diverse voices and stories, and Black theater stands uniquely positioned to meet this demand.
A Call to Action
The Black Theatre Alliance (BTA) was a federation of African American theater companies in New York City, founded in 1971. It was established to address common problems, facilitate the sharing of information, and create a platform to validate Black theater as a significant cultural movement. This organization played a pivotal role in promoting African American cultural identity through theater during the 1970s. (Perhaps some of you readers who have memories of the BTA can share them with us all. I think the organization was disbanded in the early 1980s.)
The message from 1977 remains relevant today. The survival and flourishing of Black theater require concerted effort and support from the community it seeks to represent. It is a call to audiences, artists, and patrons alike to recognize the value of sustaining these cultural beacons.
AUDELCO, which stands for Audience Development Committee, Inc., is an organization that was established in 1973 by Vivian Robinson to honor excellence in Black Theatre. The primary mission of AUDELCO is to generate awareness and understanding of the arts in African-American communities and to build larger audiences for theater productions that highlight African-American experiences.
Key Points about AUDELCO:
Vivian Robinson’s Vision: AUDELCO was founded by Vivian Robinson, a passionate advocate for African-American theater. She recognized the need for an organization that could celebrate and promote Black theater artists and productions, which often went unrecognized by mainstream theater awards.
AUDELCO Awards: One of the most notable contributions of AUDELCO is the annual “Vivian Robinson/AUDELCO Recognition Awards,” popularly known as “The Viv Awards.” These awards honor productions, performances, and technical achievements in Black theater across various categories.
Categories and Recognition: The awards recognize excellence in categories similar to those of mainstream theater awards, including Best Play, Best Musical, Best Ensemble Performance, and more. Technical categories include Best Director, Best Choreography, and outstanding achievements in lighting, sound, and set design.
Impact on Black Theatre: AUDELCO has played an essential role in providing visibility and recognition to Black theater artists and productions. It has helped build community support and audience development for theaters dedicated to African-American narratives.
Community Engagement: Beyond the awards, AUDELCO is involved in audience development initiatives aimed at increasing the participation of African-American communities in the arts. They organize events, discussions, and outreach programs to foster a deeper connection between the community and theater.
Legacy and Importance: Over the years, AUDELCO has become a respected institution within the theater community, symbolizing a dedication to the celebration and advancement of Black theater. The awards have encouraged numerous Black playwrights, actors, and directors by acknowledging their contributions to the arts.
Through its commitment to recognizing and promoting excellence in Black theater, AUDELCO continues to be a vital part of the cultural landscape, supporting the growth and recognition of African-American theater artists and fostering a thriving theater community.
The journey from 1977 to 2024 illustrates not just a decline in numbers but a broader narrative is about cultural preservation and evolution. Black theater remains a crucial part of the artistic landscape, one that must be nurtured and celebrated. As we reflect on its past and look towards the future, we must ask ourselves: What role will we play in keeping this vital art form alive?
ROUTES Interview with Elizabeth Van Dyke, Artistic Director of New Federal Theatre
Children’s Dance Theatre
Interview with Dr. Helen Johnson: Keeper of African-American Roots | 8/1978
Current state of African-American theatre affairs
Coalition of Theatres of Color
Cecil Alonzo: Brooklyn’s Live Soap
North American African-American Theatre Companies