Abstract

The Interscholastic League of Colored Schools (also known as the Texas Interscholastic League of Colored Schools or TLICS) was established in 1921. The new organization was placed under the auspices of the most prominent HBCU in Texas and Prairie View Normal and Industrial College. Ultimately named the Prairie View Interscholastic League (PVIL), it served the Black community of Texas until 1970. The PVIL was dedicated to the academic and athletic excellence produced through competition as a preparation for citizenship. PVIL theatre competitions, known as the One-Act Play Contest were an essential place where Black Texans collaborated on, defined, and represented citizenship for each other. A close examination of the PVIL’s founding and the rules, material, and experiences of the One-Act Play Contest demonstrates how Black Texans constructed themselves as citizens through performance not simply in resistance to White supremacy, but as an expression of belonging and potential.

Keywords: Interscholastic League of Colored Schools, exas Interscholastic League of Colored Schools, Prairie View Normal and Industrial College, HBCU, Prairie View Interscholastic League, Black Theatre, Colored Teachers State Association of Texas

How to Cite:

Canning, C. M., (2025) ““Texas Was a Hot Bed:” Theatre, Citizenship, and Prairie View A&M University, 1921-1970”, the Black Theatre Review 3(2), 29-43. doi: https://doi.org/10.2458/tbtr.9603