Soul Rep Theatre Celebrates Black Theater History
Soul Rep Theatre Company is bringing history to life with its production of The African Company Presents Richard III. The play tells the story of the African Grove Theatre, the first Black theater troupe in the United States. Founded in 1821 by William Alexander Brown, the African Grove Theatre broke barriers by staging Shakespeare and original works for Black audiences.
The production, written by Carlyle Brown in 1988, highlights the struggles and triumphs of the African Grove Theatre. It also explores the troupe’s rivalry with a white-owned theater, which ultimately led to its shutdown. Soul Rep’s performance is part of its 30th anniversary season, honoring the legacy of Black theater pioneers.
A Bold Stand Against Racial Injustice
The African Grove Theatre was revolutionary for its time. It not only provided a platform for Black actors but also challenged racial segregation in the arts. The theater famously posted a sign: “White people do not know how to behave at entertainments designed for ladies and gentlemen of colour.” This bold statement reflected the troupe’s defiance against discrimination.
Despite its short existence, the African Grove Theatre made a lasting impact. It inspired future generations of Black artists and paved the way for companies like Soul Rep. “Part of our training was to always ask where were the Black people at any point in the history we are studying,” says Guinea Bennett-Price, Soul Rep’s artistic director.
The Story Behind The African Company Presents Richard III
The play focuses on the African Grove Theatre’s production of Shakespeare’s Richard III and its clash with the Park Theatre, a white-owned venue. The Park Theatre, led by impresario Stephen Price, shut down the Grove’s performances twice, using fire-code violations and police intervention.
Carlyle Brown’s script weaves in fictional elements, including a romance between actor James Hewlett and actress Ann Johnson. However, the core of the story remains rooted in historical events. “This idea that they were trying to figure out who they are and what mask to wear in what part of society at what time — it’s the beginning of a new genre of theater,” says director Lisa Cotie.
A Stellar Cast Brings History to Life
Soul Rep’s production features a talented cast, including Emir Price as James Hewlett and Zariyah Perry as Ann Johnson. Price, a Shakespeare enthusiast and Booker T. Washington High School graduate, brings depth to his role as the troupe’s leading actor. Perry, a Southern Methodist University student, portrays Johnson with grace and authenticity.
The cast also includes Sinclair Freeman as William Brown, Jerrold Trice as Papa Shakespeare, and Stephen Miller as Stephen Price. Each actor contributes to the powerful storytelling, highlighting the resilience and creativity of the African Grove Theatre.
Honoring a Legacy of Black Excellence
The African Grove Theatre closed in 1823, but its influence lives on. Soul Rep Theatre continues its mission to preserve and celebrate Black theater history. “Think about the Lafayette Players and the different companies that sprung up during the Black Arts Movement,” says Bennett-Price. “You can draw a direct line from the African Grove to those companies.”
Through this production, Soul Rep not only honors the past but also inspires future generations. The African Grove Theatre’s story is a testament to the power of art in the face of adversity.
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