Freshman Year: Embarking on the HBCU College Journey
Written By: Elainey Bass
For generations, HBCUs have been more than just inclusive institutions; they are cultural safe spaces where creativity flourishes amongst the arts. In our communities, the arts have always served as a reflection of the African American experience, simply proving that no one can tell our stories better than we can. From actors, to playwrights, to costume designers, there is no doubt that HBCUS are considered incubators of talent. At our institutions, we see the next generation of thespians and creatives hone in on their craft, all while simultaneously challenging the status quo, pushing the boundaries of creative expression, and embarking on monumental opportunities and experiences.
Program Possibilities
Out of our HBCUs, 34 of them offer degreed theatre programs, with the first one being adopted at Dillard University in 1936. With classes like set and lighting design, directing, stage makeup, and play production methods, the possibilities are truly endless for students that aim to expand their artistic talents into an ever-growing industry. It’s no secret that HBCUs lack funding, both on a state and federal level. Oftentimes, students are forced to use what they have around them, resulting in the theater programs to be more hands-on with limited, updated facilities. However, this does not stop Black students from wanting to tell their stories and pursue the arts on a professional level. Students are taught by professors who not only have real-world experience, but most are still actively pursuing a career in the arts. They treat students like working professionals, often giving off the tough love needed to thrive in entertainment. Opportunities to attend workshops, attend auditions, and gain real-world experience is granted to those who put in the work like a true professional. All in all, to say that these programs enhance the students artistic palette would be an understatement.
Serving the Work
In a world where our narratives are often excluded, there have been many notable alumni that are reclaiming their stories and crafting work that speak to our unique experiences. They tend to come back to pour into students, especially through master classes and talk-backs. Myles Frost, a graduate of Bowie State University, won the Tony Award for portraying legend Michael Jackson in MJ the Musical in 2022. Kenny Leon, a Tony Award-winning director and producer, is an alum of Clark Atlanta University. To one’s surprise, Leon actually majored in political science, but took all theatre electives. From Howard University, their illustrious program produced talents like Chadwick Boseman, Taraji P. Henson, Phylicia Rashad, Debbie Allen, Lance Gross, and Toni Morrison. Spike Lee, Samuel L. Jackson, and John David Washington came out of Morehouse College. Ruth E. Carter graduated from Hampton University and went on to create the looks for the Black Panther film amongst many others. This resulted in Carter becoming the first Black person to win the Costume Design category at the Academy Awards.
The Importance of the Black Voice
Most know the works of August Wilson, Lorraine Hansbury, and Dominique Morisseau. Black thespians may not find it challenging to tell their beautifully written stories effectively. By attending a theatre program at an HBCU, one does not have to deal with the same caliber of competitiveness as the real world. Because these pieces are written for Black people by Black people, students aren't really at a disadvantage when it comes to having the opportunity to go out for a role. However, as one can imagine, this isn't necessarily the case elsewhere. Black theatre students are often faced with push-back, unnecessary micro-aggressions, and lack of cultural awareness from their white professors. This can be difficult for Black artists, resulting in many of them feeling like they are not as qualified. Although this is essentially a taste of the real world, it is crucial that we still continue to preserve and pour into the arts. No one can tell our stories better than we can.