In this issue, special guest editors Khalid Y. Long and DeRon S. Williams, curate a collection of essays and visual reflections that highlight the history, culture, and innovative role Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) play in cultivating theatre within academia and beyond. While numerous critical studies have been published on HBCUs and their place within higher education, far less attention has been given to examining the unique contributions of their theatre programs. With such a rich cultural, historical, and social significance, it is essential to investigate how these theatre programs foster artistic innovation, preserve cultural narratives, and shape the future of Black theatre, performance, and production. 

The urgency of this special issue aligns with the resurgence of HBCUs as pivotal sites for advancing equity and representation in the arts. Accordingly, Historically Black Colleges and Universities have played, and continue to play, a crucial role in shaping American theatre academically and professionally. From their training programs in acting, design, and management to advancing critical thought in Black Theatre Studies, Black Drama, and theatrical production - cementing these areas as legitimate academic disciplines, HBCUs have provided students and professors with invaluable cultural and educational experiences. Equally important is the impact of these programs on the communities they serve - offering access to culturally resonant performances, fostering local talent, and creating spaces where community narratives are shared and celebrated. HBCU theatre programs bridge the gap between academic study and community engagement, emphasizing theatre's role in empowering students, faculty, and ultimately the wider public.

Editors: DeRon S. Williams (Guest Editor), Khalid Y. Long (Guest Editor)

Front Matter

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Articles

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Notes from the Field

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Artistic Practice as Scholarship

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Book Reviews

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Performance Reviews

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