1970 - 1960 Theatrical Production History
1970 - 1960 Theatrical Production History
Embedded Files
1967 Howard Players membership card. Courtesy, Richard Wesley
1961 Alumni Memory
"I was in the very first play in the Ira Aldridge stage: Blood Wedding directed by Dodson in 1961 and later that same year I was a chorus member in Antigone also directed by Dodson. Since then I have worked in NYC as a theatre director and am now a retired professor of theatre from Georgia Southern University. I have done significant scholarship at Georgia State University." ~ Mical R. Whitaker 1962 alum (Researcher interview June 29, 2018)
1967 Howard Players membership card. Courtesy, Stephen Byrd
Scroll down to review the 1970 - 1960 repository of the Howard Players theatrical production
Campus Vibes: 1960-1970
1960-70 was a time of dissension-a time for change. All over the University, in every academic department and in every school, dissatisfaction was evident. The Sociology Department in the College of Liberal Arts and the student's in the College of Fine Arts bought their grievances to the attention of the Howard family through boycotts, demonstrations and the presentation of demands to the University officials.
Attention was focused on community involvement and everyone rallied in support of the movement. Buildings were occupied, barricades were built and the inevitable injunction was issued. Injunction... Rejection... Students... Community... Police-Confrontation!
The Confrontation came when the University buildings were not evaluated when ordered so by the United States Marshal. Metropolitan police invaded the campus, and in a matter of hours, what had existed for two weeks was suddenly indefinitely over.
Victory is many things to different people-to the Sociology and Fine Arts students, it was the eventual granting of some of the demands that they fought so hard to obtain that Spring.
(Transcribed article to left from: Howard University, "The Bison: 1970" (1970). Howard University Yearbooks. 139. https://dh.howard.edu/bison_yearbooks/139)
1969/1970 - William T. Brown, Chair, Department of Drama
1969/1970 - William T. Brown, Chair, Department of Drama
Acting Dean: Mark Fax, College of Fine Arts
Major: B. F. A. in Drama
Areas of Concentration: Dramatic Literature, Directing and Production, Acting, Design, Technical Production and Lighting
Staff: Joanne Powell, Secretary
Howard Players President: ?
Faculty:
Professor - Owen Dodson
Associate Professor - William T. Brown
Assistant Professor - Paul Carter Harrison, Nicholas C. Read
Instructor - William Davis, Glenda Dickerson, Vera J. Katz, Charlotte Starbird
Lecturer P/T - James Butcher (Associate Professor on leave - Coordinator for Special Projects), Sally Crowell, Eleanor Traylor
Excerpt from 1969/70 College of Fine Arts Annual Report, Mark Fax, Acting Dean
Pgs. i-iv ..The school year of 1969-70 in the College of Fine Arts followed the pattern of the years immediately preceding. This pattern of unrest, subtle and overt expressions of dissatisfaction, and a pervasive feeling of unhappiness and uncertainty also characterized other units of the University. Helping to bring definition to this general atmosphere were two visits to the College made by the President of the University. These visits provided occasions for the student body as a whole to verbalize its view of the problems of the College.
Serving also to identify areas of concern was the appointment by the then Vice-President for Academic Affairs of the University, Dr. McKinney, of a committee on self-study whose report, whole not officially released, cited the need for a decisive, if not a dramatic, change in the direction of the College of Fine Arts.
Thus the school year of 1969-79 was one wherein campus tensions and unrest persisted, but which, toward its end, provided means through which issues could be sharply drawn and solutions formulated.
More than this, the year provided the hope that this can be done. This, in turn, suggests that the low-point of shattered morale at Howard University has been reached, and that the University is now entering a period of rebuilding and redirection wherein the spirit of optimism is in the ascendency.
This is certainly the view now held in the College of Fine Arts at year's end.
The most notable change in the so-called student revolt (at least in the view of this writer) is the position of the university itself; for the universities not now the target of student dissatisfaction, but the instrument through which the student expresses his dissatisfactions. It is most important that this fact be clearly understood, for it explains what would otherwise appear to be irrational stances of student activism.
An example of this occurred on May 15 of the present year, when the students displaced the conventional examination period with study seminars in which basic student concerns were discussed.
These concerns centered around problems of war, social justice, and social change. The events on and after May 15 were not affirmations of students desire to do away with final examinations, or even to change the system of grading.
These concerns centered around problems of war, social justice, and social change. The events on and after May 15 were not affirmations of students desire to do away with final examinations, or even to change the system of grading.
These events provided the occasion for the students to state, in most dramatic fashion, that they considered certain crises apparent in every day life to be so compelling that they transcended in importance the routine of university academic procedure.
By their actions, the students were saying that in critical times such as these, the University must abandon its business as usual stance and deal creatively with the realities of social crisis.
It is significant to note that the actions of Howard University students on May 15th were duplicated by other students throughout the country; and in this situation, the students were not protesting against the University: they were protesting through it.
Wether this turn-about in the student protest movement is right tor wrong is a moralistic question which is obviously without an answer. On the other hand, the position in which the University presently finds itself is the reality with which it must deal, and for which an answer must be found. And how this reality is dealt with is certainly a major concern of this college, the College of Fine Arts.
We shall return to this matter after examining the second aspect of our socio-cultural environment. The late sixties have given to this country a veritable cultural explosion the effects of which will certainly eventuate into a cultural revolution. In point of fact, this explosion entered its build-up phase long before the late sixties; it was simply a case of the explosion heralding the event.
The only truly new and affective voice in drama is the black voice as heard through the works of LeRoy Jones, Ossie Davis, and the many unknowns whose voices can no longer be stilled.
The only truly new song to be heard in this country is the deep-throated song of a Nina Simone whose protests will non longer be restrained. What our music is really saying to the world is that in the Black Genius there resides a soul which sings a new song from which will also come a new symphony and new forms which can serve as our bequest to a world which hunger for new dimensions and new voices in music.
This then is the other aspect, along with an appraisal of it, of our socio-cultural environment. In this environment we see the student reacting through his college rather than against it; and at the same time we have an environment whose dynamism is propelled by artistic expression, and whose vitality is drawn in the main from the Black Experience.
Excerpt from 1969/70 College of Fine Arts Annual Report, Department of Drama section
Pg. 20-22... Although the school year began and ended in confusion, there was still a lot of productivity throughout the year. A carry over from the previous year’s disturbances left three teaching vacancies; and a change in administration left a Departmental chairmanship vacancy.
As the school year began a new revised curriculum became effective and the play production schedule was formulated. The new entering freshmen seemed to be well prepared and eager to learn. The older student seemed to be pleased with changes that had resulted through previous encounters and were serious in their renewed efforts to learn.
Many of the students made outstanding contributions to the community and other theatre organizations. To mention a few Harry Poe and Washington Theatre Club and Galludet College; April Perry-Back Alley Theatre; Petronia Johnson-Arena Stage.
Throughout the year the department participated in such events as The Black Arts Conference and the African Heritage Conference. The department met and talked to members of the touring company of The Negro Ensemble, Barbara Ann Lewis's drama group and were entertained by a special performance by Mr. Percival Border, a professional interpretive dancer.
Article: Vera Katz on Glenda Dickerson
SOLITARY SOJOURNER Glenda Dickerson: Katz, Vera J. (1990) "SOLITARY SOJOURNER Glenda Dickerson," New Directions: Vol. 17: Iss. 2, Article 8. Available at: https://dh.howard.edu/newdirections/vol17/iss2/8
To right: Collection, Channing Pollock, "“The Unfinished Song, Reflections in Black Voices”" (1969). Theatre Programs. 11.
https://dh.howard.edu/africana_theatre/11
Glenda Dickerson's Unfinished Song. Article in The Hilltop 11-14-1969 Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 11-14-1969" (1969). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 210. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/210
Fall Semester 1969 (no season theme mentioned)
THE UNFINISHED SONG – REFLECTIONS IN BLACK VOICES created and directed by Glenda Dickerson
Date: Dec. 8-13, 1969
Produced in: Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Charlene Harris, Evamarii Johnson, Petronya, Vikki mathaison, Nellie Mashla, Connie Thomas, Marc Boyd, Clinton T. Davis, Ben Epps, Edward Fleming, James FAir, Tola Sodeinde
Design/Creative: William M. Davis, Technical Director.
Stage/Production Management: Ron Truitt, Stage Manager. Linda Lou Bolden, Assistant Stage Manager. Clay Goss, Production Assistant. Gregory King & Eric Hughes, Set Designers. Chalotte Starbird, Costume Designer. Gregory King, Lighting Designer
Excerpt from 1969/70 College of Fine Arts Annual Report, Department of Drama section, Pg. 20-21
An original compilation of African and black American poetry and prose. The production was so highly received that extra performances had to be scheduled and a tour was formed.
The company of players took the production to Harrisburg Community College, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; University of Delaware - Newark Delaware, Sweetbriar College - Sweetbriar, Virginia, University of Maryland - College Park, Maryland. As a result of the great success of this production Howard's Drama Department was invited to participate in the Second Annual American College Theatre Festival.
This production was selected from approximately 280 entrants as one of the ten best college productions in the country. As part of the Festival, The Unfinished Song performed at Ford's historic theatre for three performances on May 9th and 10th.
This production was also performed in Cramton Auditorium as part of the Inaugural Week Activities in honor of Dr. James Cheek.
2. AN EVENING OF BLACK COMEDIES written by Ted Shine
Directed by Owen Dodson
Date: Oct. 23-31 & Nov. 1, 1969
Produced in: Ira Aldridge Theatre
SHOES
Cast: Reginald Clark, Edward Fleming, Tola Sodeinde, James Fair, Joann McKnight
Stage Manger: Marc Boyd, Stage Manager
Design/Creative: William M. Davis, Technical Director. Charlotte Starbird, Costume Designer. William T. Brown, Set & Lighting Designer.
ISABLE'S FORTUNE
Cast: Sally Blumenthal, Pat Clement, S. Carlson Crowell, Sam Greenfield, Stan Lopez, Luther Smith, Morris Miller
Design/Creative: William M. Davis, Technical Director. Charlotte Starbird, Costume Designer. William T. Brown, Set & Lighting Designer.
Stage/Production Management: Matthew Shannon, Stage Manager
Ted Shine is a graduate of Howard University's Drama Department. He continued his studies at Iowa and graduated with a MFA degree. he became a member of Howard's Drama Department and is no working on his doctorate at the University of California at Santa Barbara, California.
The Howard Players presented his satire on black-white relations in the south SHO IS HOT IN THE COTTON PATCH. Last year the Negro Ensemble Company presented his prize winning one act play THGE CONTRIBUTION off Broadway on a National and International tour. In the plays presented tonight Mr. Shine adds a fresh and. unusual approach to the present scene. He is saying through the medium of comedy and the absurd that prejudice has made millions of people, white and black alike, neurotic, bitter and hopeless flounderers and distorters in a section of our country undergoing profound social and economic changes. Mr. Shine has taken a penetration look at the lives of a group of people - some lost and defeated, others who have hope for the future and some who are already dead while living.
Article to left: Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 10-24-1969" (1969). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 207. https://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/207
Fall 1968: Playwright/Cultural Theorist Paul Carter Harrison joins the DoTA faculty
Drama Professor Paul Carter Harrison wants Black Art
The Hilltop 10-10-1969. The Hilltop: 1960-70. 205. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/205
Howard during the 1960's The Hilltop 12-19-1969. "The Hilltop 12-19-1969. The Hilltop: 1960-70. 214. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/214
Spring Semester 1970 (no season theme mentioned)
JUNE BUG GRADUATES TONIGHT written by Archie Shepp
Directed by Paul Carter Harrison
A new original script.
Date: March 5-7 & 12-14, 1970
Produced in: Ira Aldridge Theatre
MOON ON A RAINBOW SHAWL written by Errol John
Directed by Vera J. Katz
Date: April 23, 25, 30, May 1-2, 1970
Produced in: Ira Aldridge Theatre
Excerpt from 1969/70 College of Fine Arts Annual Report, Department of Drama section, Pg. 21...Some original student plays had been scheduled for May 11,12,13,14,15 but had to be cancelled due to a University crisis.
1970 Production Poster from The Katz Collection, Howard University, Department of Art. Accessed 2020.
1968/1969 - James W. Butcher, Chair, Department of Drama
1968/1969 - James W. Butcher, Chair, Department of Drama
Dean: Warner Lawson, College of Fine Arts
Major: B. F. A. in Drama
Areas of Concentration: Dramatic Literature, Directing and Production, Acting, Design, Technical Production and Lighting
Staff: Marian Fountain (Secretary), William M. Davis (Technical Director)
Howard Players President: ?
Faculty:
Professor - James Butcher
Associate Professor - William T. Brown
Assistant Professor - Paul Carter Harrison, Nicholas C. Read, Carl Schurr
Instructor - William M. Davis, Joseph C. D'Mello, Richard R. Hawkshawe, Dorothy J. Gordon
Lecturer P/T - Eleanor W. Traylor
Final year for Department of Television & Film Arts
Program Director - Allen J. Bowers (WETA)
Program Director -Jim Eddins
Assistant Professor - Nicholas C. Read (WETA)
Excerpts from Howard University 1969 Yearbook
Article to left pg. 91. Article above pg. 182 - Howard University, "The Bison: 1969" (1969). Howard University Yearbooks. 138. https://dh.howard.edu/bison_yearbooks/138
Excerpt from 1969/70 College of Fine Arts Annual Report, Warner Lawson, Dean
Pgs. iii-vii...Yet another facet of art activity on the national scene should be pointed out as a part of the back-drop against which the College of Fine Arts has functioned during the 1968-69 school year. This is the arts in relation to the social revolution (of which the black revolution is an important aspect) which is now taking place. Only one aspect of this huge and encompassing activity will be mentioned here. In a June, 1968 publication the Unted States Government issued a small but highly significant report bearing the title, The Arts and the Poor: New challenge for Educators. This little study simply seeks to show how the arts, because they speak directly to the feelings, perceptions, and sensibilities of human beings, possess a capability for reaching children which is virtually unique.
Although the College of Fine Arts of Howard University does not deal directly with children, it does deal directly with those to whom will be entrusted the guidance of children, as well as those who will be practitioner's of the arts which "speak directly to the felings, perceptions, and sensibilities of human beings." It is in this context, and within the framework of the present day social ferment in which the arts hold a central place htat this report should be red and assessed.
Basic curriculum changes were effected in the College of Fine Arts during the 1968-69 school year. In the Department of Art and Drama these changes were complete in the sense that the total programs of each department were rvised. In the School of Music important additions were made to the curriculum with the establishment of an Institute of Jazz studies under the direction of Donaldson Byrd, and the inauguration of courses in Saxophone playing under the leadership of Martin Piecuch. The thrust of all curriculum changes was directed toward meeting more effectively the needs students in a rapidly changing society.
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 3-28-1969" (1969). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 196. https://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/196
Fall Semester 1968 (no season theme)
SIMPLY HEAVENLY (Musical) written by Langston Hughes
Directed by James Butcher.
Date: Oct. 24-31, Nov. 1-2, 1968
Produced in: Ira Aldridge Theatre
Incident: the invasion of the Ira Aldridge Theatre during intermission by a group of black militants causing the cancellation of the final performance of Simply Heavenly
Cast: Harold Fore, William Link, Eileen Crawford, Thomas Gates, Laverne Howell, Petronia Johnson, Sundra Williams, Edward Fleming, Clyde Barrett, Linda Gravatt, Carl Taylor, Barry Frazier, Harry Poe, Jimmy Wilks, Diane Young, Ellene Campbell, Billy Roseboro, Bob Stevens, Laverne Howell
Design/Creative: Clyde Barrett, Musical Director. Dorothy J. Gordon, Costume & Set Designer. Robert Matthews, Lighting Designer. April Perry, Sound Designer. William Brown, Technical Director. David Martin, Music
Stage/Production Management: Cheryl Johnson-Dillard, Production Manager. Jimmy Wilkes, Stage Manager. Lee Hancock, Assistant Stage Manager
THE FIREBUGS written by Max Frisch
Directed by Carl Schurr
Date: Dec. 5-7 & 12-14, 1968
Produced in: Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Deborah Allen, Linda Lou Bolden, Wayne Dorsey, Lawrence Howard, Leon R. Johnson, Mark Powell, Diane Russell, Sandra D. Walton, Carolyn Wyatt, William Roseboro Jr, Phylican Ayers Allen, Samuel Greenfield, Robert Stephens
Design/Creative: William T. Brown, Set Design. James Wilkes, Lighting Design. Dorothy Gordon, Costume Design.
Stage Management: Sally Blumenthal, Stage Manager. Ellen Lewis, Assistant Stage Manager
Above: Collection, Channing Pollock, "“Simply Heavenly”" (1968). Theatre Programs. 17. https://dh.howard.edu/africana_theatre/1
Staff Hilltop, "The Hilltop 11-8-1968" (1968). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 183. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/183
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 12-13-1968" (1968). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 187. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/187
Faculty Perspective: Student Morale
Excerpt from 1968/69 College of Fine Arts annual report, Department of Drama section Pg. 82-83
Associate Professor, William T. Brown: Even though there have been class interruptions and student-faculty difficulties, I think the morale of the Drama students has been pretty stable. Of course there have been ups and downs, but it is my belief that the majority of the Drama students have faith and confidence in the Drama faculty.
I think that the students see progress and encouragement from the faculty and are looking forward to a good student-faculty relationship. Ever since the first spark of dissension was ignited over two years ago in teh Drama Department, the faculty has been working towards a better understanding and relationship with th students. I think this is clearly evidenced through curriculum changes, committee representation, and more student participation.
Article to right: Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 11-8-1968" (1968). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 183. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/183
Towards a Black University, November 13-17, 1968
1968: Phylicia Allen, Vice President of Howard Players
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 9-27-1968" (1968). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 177. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/177
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 11-1-1968" (1968). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 182. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/182
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 11-15-1968" (1968). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 184. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/184
New Play "The Last Day" written by student JoAnne McKnight
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 11-15-1968" (1968). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 184. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/184
1969 The Evening Star: Paul Carter Harrison's Effort to Unveil Black Theater at Howard University
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 3-14-1969" (1969). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 194. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/19
Spring Semester 1969 (no season theme)
TABERNACLE written by Paul Cater Harrison (New Play Development)
Directed by Paul Carter Harrison
Date: March 6-9 & 13-15, 1969
Produced in: Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Eric Gravatt, Harry Poe, John Bell
Design: Ron Anderson & Eric Love, Set Design
Tabernacle was also presented at Wesleyan University in Middletown, Connecticut as part of the Black Arts Festival on March 28, 1969.
Collection, Channing Pollock, "“Tabernacle”" (1969). Theatre Programs. 16. https://dh.howard.edu/africana_theatre/16
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 3-21-1969" (1969). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 195. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/195
TABERNACLE, by Paul Carter Harrison is shut down early by the administration
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 3-21-1969" (1969). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 195. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/195
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 3-21-1969" (1969). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 195. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/195
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 2-7-1969" (1969). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 189. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/189
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 4-18-1969" (1969). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 197. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/197
Spring Semester 1969 (no season theme)
THREE ORIGINAL ONE ACT STUDENT PLAYS:
TREK written by Ardie Sturat
DUET FOR THREE VOICES written by Pearl Cleage
THE DEBUT written by Charles Tyler
Date: April 21-26, 1969
Produced in: Ira Aldridge Theatre
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 4-25-1969" (1969). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 198. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/198
Excerpt from 1968/69 College of Fine Arts Annual Report, Department of Drama section
Pg. 38-39...The nation-wide turbulence on campus during the Academic year 1968-69 brought its share of confusion and disruption to the Department of Drama. Boycotts, sit-ins, and other forms of protest plus the suspension of classes during the influenza epidemic played havoc with the instructional program through the University.
The many student meetings to formulate demands and the many faculty meetings called to respond to these demands resulted in further damage in the area of teaching.
During the confusion of the protests and despite the efforts of a small group of activists, the relationship in general between Drama students and faculty remained good; conversations were held and problems discussed for the most part with respect and reason. Not all of the problems have been solved but progress is being made.
Two unfortunate incidents resulting from general unrest should be noted: (1) the invasion of the Ira Aldridge Theatre during intermission by a group of black militants causing the cancellation of the final performance of Simply Heavenly and (2) the resignation early in the second semester of a very competent young instructor who felt unable to adjust to the demands of his students.
The latter incident, I believe, suggests very strongly the need for a careful evaluation of the validity of student demands for immediate relevance only and the complete rejection of universal standards in the arts and in training for the arts.
The faculty of the department is constantly examining the curriculum and, in consultation with students, making revisions to keep it in line with national trends and individual student needs. A faculty-student Curriculum Committee has been established to address itself to this problem. A copy of the new, and more flexible, basic curriculum, developed during the second semester of this year is appended to this report.
1969 College of Fine Arts Student Takeover
1969 College of Fine Arts Student Takeover
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 3-14-1969" (1969). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 194. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/194
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 3-7-1969" (1969). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 193. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/193
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 3-7-1969" (1969). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 193. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/193
1969: Fine Arts Student Protestors Demand Big Changes in the College of Fine Arts
Read full article: "The Hilltop 3-21-1969" (1969). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 195. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/195
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 5-16-1969" (1969). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 201. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/201
1967/1968 - James W. Butcher, Acting Head, Department of Drama
1967/1968 - James W. Butcher, Acting Head, Department of Drama
Dean: Warner Lawson, College of Fine Arts
Major: B. F. A. in Drama
Areas of Concentration: Dramatic Literature, Directing and Production, Acting, Design, Technical Production and Lighting
Staff: William M. Davis (Technical Director)
Howard Players: James Fair (President), James Wilks (Vice President), Edith White (Treasurer), Linda McNear (Secretary)
Faculty:
Professor - Owen Dodson
Associate Professor - William T. Brown, James Butcher (part-time faculty. Manger of Cramton Auditorium)
Instructor - William M. Davis, Richard Hawkshawe
Lecturer - Gretchen Gordon, Joseph D'Mello
Department of Television and Film Arts
Program Director - Allen J. Bowers (WETA)
Assistant Professor - Nicholas C. Read (WETA & Drama)
Instructor - Stanlee Miller Coy
Excerpt from 1967/68 College of Fine Arts Annual Report, Warner Lawson, Dean
Pg. iii... The College of Fine Arts did not escape the impact of the social revolution now taking place and whose focal point is in the student population of the world. Nor would this college want to escape from involvement in this revolution.
As a result of student desires, major curricular changes have been effected. These changes include the offering of new courses and the re-constructing of existing curricula. The departments most keenly affected were the departments of art and drama. For the school of Music courses relating to popular music were added.
What is significant about these changes was the manner which they were brought about. Without anger, bitterness, or mis-spent emotion the changes were simply made because they were the inevitable response to growing needs.
Faculty and students worked together in the kind of harmonious, intimate relation that has always, by virtue of its very nature, marked the workings of the College of Fine Arts.
Department of Television and Film Arts
Fall Semester 1967 (no season theme)
THREE ORIGINAL ONE ACT PLAYS written by Floyd B. Barbour
Directed by Owen Dodson
Date: Dec. 7-16, 1967
Produced in: Ira Aldridge Theatre
ORANGES
AUTO SACRAMENTAL
THE BIRD CAGE
Cast: Yvone McCoy, Joseph Campher, Clyde Grubb, Linda McNear, Gretchen Gordon, Edward Flemming, Gregory L. King, Beverly Johnson, Ben Land, Harry Poe, Eric Gravatt, Leroy Ganges, William Roseboro, Eileen McKinney, Kathy Hamilton, Joanne McKnight, Omar P. Dasent, Earl Newman, Geoffrey Newman, Lynda Bradley O'Neal
Design/Creative: Clyde Barrett, Musical Director. Oswald, Costume Designer. William T. Brown, Set & Lighting Designer.
Stage/Production Management: Cheryl Johnson-Dillard, Production Manager. Jimmy Wilkes, Stage Manager. Lee Hancock, Assistant Stage Manage
THE BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE written by William Saroyan
Directed by James W. Butcher
Date: October 1967
Produced in: Ira Aldridge Theatre
THE SKIN OF OUR TEETH written by Thornton Wilder
Directed by William T. Brown
Date: November 1967
Produced in: Ira Aldridge Theatre
Floyd Barrington Barbour
One of the functions of a university drama department is to seek out new playwrights and perform their scripts. At Howard University we have always attempted to do this not only with the work of our own students, but with others like James Baldwin whose first production, The Amen Corner, was presented; Theodis Shine, Mario Fratti and others.
Now we present a young Negro playwright who has lived in Washington, D.C., for many years: Floyd Barrington Barbour.
The tree plays performed tonight we believe, have a truthfulness and surely a certain unexpectedness that is right.
Added to these he has a poetry in his work that has long been wanted and needed in the American and other theatres of the world.
We welcome his style of presentation, his language and his view of life when plays of the absurd emphasize a dull, repetitious and rancorous sense of life.
Mr. Barbour is not made of sugar water. He recognizes our present agony, our special problems, but with an eager outlook and a philosophy of hope, peace and a forward progress of our society without being maudlin or bitter.
We might add that his dramas have been performed off-Broadway, at Brandeis and Yale Universities.
Excerpt from program in the center Dec. 1967.
In 2024 this room serves as the only Dance Studio space. In the 1960's it served as a classroom and the Experimental Theatre Lounge
Howard University, pg. 79, "The Bison: 1967" (1967). Howard University Yearbooks. 136. https://dh.howard.edu/bison_yearbooks/136
Excerpt from 1967/68 College of Fine Arts Annual Report, Department of Drama section
Pg. 42...Despite problems which could not have been anticipated considerable work of real value was accomplished. It is expected that with a full teaching staff next year, the Department of Drama will move forward into a vigorous and meaningful program.
Howard University, pg. 78, "The Bison: 1967" (1967). Howard University Yearbooks. 136. https://dh.howard.edu/bison_yearbooks/136
Spring Semester 1968 (no season theme)
RISIN UP: The Development of the Black Man (Howard Players student production)
Directed by Charles Butler & James Fair. Choreographed by Linda Bradley O'Neal
Date: Jan. 11-13, 1968
Produced in: Ira Aldridge Theatre
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 1-3-1968" (1968). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 160. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/160
Above: Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 2-9-1968" (1968). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 162. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/162
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 2-9-1968" (1968). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 162. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/162
Spring Semester 1968 (no season theme)
TIL VICTORY IS WON (Opera) Music Mark Fax Libretto Owen Dodson
Directed by Warner Lawson
Date: Spring 1968
Produced in: Ira Aldridge Theatre
A RAISIN IN THE SUN written by Lorraine Hansberry. (Howard Players student production)
Directed by Robert E. West
Date: April 29 - May 11, 1968
Produced in: Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Phylican Allen, James Fair, Chassie West, Harold Fore, Louis Heath, Darrell Brown, Robert VanDyke, Carl Taylor
Design/Creative: William T. Brown, Set Design. Jimmy Wilkes, Lighting Design. Dorthory Gordon, Costume Design
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 5-3-1968" (1968). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 172. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/172
Spring 1968 Review: Howard Players Production - A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry
Left & Above: Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 5-3-1968" (1968). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 172. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/172
1968: Howard Students Interrogate the Mission of the Negro Ensemble Company
Above and Right: Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 2-9-1968" (1968). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 162. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/162
1966/1967 - Owen V. Dodson, Head of Department of Drama
1966/1967 - Owen V. Dodson, Head of Department of Drama
Dean: Warner Lawson, College of Fine Arts
Major: B. F. A. in Drama
Areas of Concentration: Dramatic Literature, Directing and Production, Acting, Design, Technical Production and Lighting
Staff: one full time secretary
Howard Players President: ?
Faculty:
Professor - Owen V. Dodson
Associate Professor - James W. Butcher, William T. Brown, Marion R. McMichael,
Assistant Professor - Theodis Shine
Instructor - William M. Davis, John Foreman, Shizu Coles
Lecturer P/T - none
Department of Television and Film Arts
Program Director - Allen J. Bowers (WETA & Drama)
Assistant Professor - Nicholas C. Read (WETA & Drama)
Stuart A. Rose Manuscript, Archives, and Rare Book Library, Emory University. https://archives.libraries.emory.edu/repositories/7/resources/2331 Accessed April 27, 2022
Excerpt from 1967/68 College of Fine Arts Annual Report, Warner Lawson, Dean
Pg. 1...The provocative report of the Rockefeller Panel on the future of the theatre, dance and music in America, issued in 1965, informs us that at the present time there are 1,401 symphony orchestras performing in this country, 754 operatic groups, about 40,000 theatrical enterprises of various kinds, and 200 dance companies.
When one adds to these figures the 13,530 degrees in the fine and applied arts conferred during the 1961-62 school year, it becomes evident that art activity and art education in this school year, it matters of no little importance.
Emory Univeristy Hatch Billops Collection
Fall Semester 1966 Season Theme: Howard University Centennial
OEDIPUS REX by Sophocles
Directed by Owen Dodson
Date: Oct. 19-29, 1966
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Kenneth Daugherty, Alfred Field, Ben Williams, Charles Bettis, Cynthia Barksdale King, Michael Gates, James Fair, Miriam Stovall, Darrell Brown, Clyde Grubb, David Simon, Ben Land, Candece V. Tarpley-Dancer, Eve lee, Rita Wormley, Louise Heath, Bonnie Banfield, Jermoe Akbar, Leon Isaac
Design/Creative: William T. Brown, Settings and Lighting. Charles Sebree, Costume Designer
Stage Manager: Geoffrey Newman
AN EVENING WITH THE HOWARD PLAYERS
Date: Nov. 19, 1966
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Stuart A. Rose Manuscript, Archives, and Rare Book Library, Emory University. https://archives.libraries.emory.edu/repositories/7/resources/2331 Accessed April 27, 2022
Howard University, "The Bison: 1967" (1967). Howard University Yearbooks. 136. https://dh.howard.edu/bison_yearbooks/136
YOU CAN’T TAKE IT WITH YOU a comedy by George Kaufman & Moss Hart
Directed by Ted Shine.
Date: Dec. 1,2,3,8,9,10, 1966
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Judith Swann, Cheryl McLeish, Ellene McKinney, Lennie Chapman, Ben Land, James Wilks, Rita Wormley, David Simon, Carl Taylor, St. Clair Christmas, james ullman, Erham Imset, Phylicia Allen, Tom Gates, Miriam Stovall, Clyde Grubb, Leon Isaac, Sheppherd O'Neal, Eve Lee
Design/Creative: William T. Brown, Technical Directorl. Marion McMichael, Acting Coach.
Stage/Production Management: Lee Hancock, Stage Manager. B. J. Reed, Assistant Stage Manager
Collection, Channing Pollock, "“You Can’t Take It With You”" (1966). Theatre Programs. 14. https://dh.howard.edu/africana_theatre/1
Spring Semester 1967 Season Theme: Howard University Centennial
SENIOR STUDENT DIRECTING PROJECTS
GHOSTS by Ibsen
Directed by Alfred Field (student)
THE OWL AND THE PUSSYCAT
Directed by Beauris White (student)
BELL, BOOK AND CANDLE by John Van Druten
Directed by Jacqueline Majors (student)
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre Lounge
Cast: Bonnie Banfield, David Simon, Charles Butler, Daisy Bennett, Carl Taylor
Design: Shepard O'Neil, Sound & Lighting.
Stage Management: June Bond, Stage Manager
PURLIE VICTORIOUS by Ossie Davis
Directed by Robert E. West
Date: Feb. 0-25, 1967
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Design: Beauris A. Whitehead, Technical Director. St. Clair Christmas, Set Design. Robert West, Lights. Ronald Truitt, Sound.
Stage Management: Charles Butler, Stage Manager. Adrienne Cooper, Assistant Stage Manager.
YALE FESTIVAL OF UNDERGRADUATE DRAMA
Date: March 21-23, 1967
Four students attended the Eleventh Annual Yale Festival of Undergraduate Drama
Collection, Channing Pollock, "“Bell, Book, and Candle”" (1967). Theatre Programs. 15. https://dh.howard.edu/africana_theatre/15
Collection, Channing Pollock, "“Purlie Victorious”" (1967). Theatre Programs. 13. https://dh.howard.edu/africana_theatre/13
Review of Purlie Victorious 1967
As broadcast by Roy Meachum, Drama Critic for WTOP-TV (CBS), on news night, February 21, 1967. 6-7pm
Be glad if you skipped Purlie Victorious on Broadway during the two-year tour. Regrets for missing the distinguished actor, Ossie Davis, and his wife, Ruby Dee, are wiped out by the glee the Howard University Players' cast brings to the show. It has been a long time since I enjoyed a production more.
In his play, Davis has taken all the stock characters in teh civil rights struggle, thrown them into a "bodacious" battle for an old church and come up with one of those evenings seldom found. Virtually every cliche ever uttered by white segregationists or Negro civil rights leader gets twisted back on its original speaker. James Fair makes Purlie Victorious Judson a caricature of everybody from Martin Luther King to former Howard student, Stokely Carmichael.
Considering the play was first produced a half dozen years ago, Purlie was a prophet in calling for black power. In the second act, Fair had his audience clapping their hands and shouting approval as he took off in revival preacher style.
Being a production entirely by students, the Howard Purlie has some flaws, but very minor. Definitely not among them is the direction of Robert E. Est, who has his playes cranking out laughs, gestures, looks and movements on those rare occasions where Davis hasn't written them in. Leroy E. Giles and Chassie L. West give their Uncle Tom and his bossy wife roles the kind of insight rarely found on any stage.
Perhaps you shold be warned that hte laughs have sharp edges that cut up both white and Negro. Each race gets its sensitivities slashed apart by a "golden razor" as Purlie might call it. The jokes are all on the audience; "In-Show" in town and be joyful that they've added extra performances next week for PURLIE VICTORIOUS by the Howard University Players in Ira Aldridge Theatre.
1966/67 Department of Drama Annual Awards Night
Sterling Brown
Professor Sterling Brown you have been a leader in developing drama and theatre at Howard University especially in those sparse years when the players had no permanent home. When they fainted you lifted them up; when they needed a leader to inspire them beyond presenting pedestrian dull plays you guided them to the finest, the most avant garde in classical and contemporary dramas.
You have acted with us and your presence always has and always will prepare us to make the theatre the temple of the spirit you dream of. The Drama Department and the Howard Players are honored t present you their HINES-BROOKS award: A silver medal with a guardian angel of the arts carved in it, she is holding out a laurel wreath - shall we say - to you in the Centennial year of this University. October, 24, 1966 Presented before the opening performance of OEDIPUS REX
Montgomery Gregory
For many years, before this department was founded; you, along with Sterling Brown, Alain Locke, and James Butcher, were moving forces in keeping Drama alive at Howard, So we are grateful to you tonite because without you and a few others we would not be standing there in this building fully established as a Drama Department.
It is not easy to thank someone like you for the work they have done in the past but, we can at least present to you this silver medal, The Brooks-Hines award.
Geoffrey Newman
Geoffrey, your stage manager-ship of Oedipus Rex was beyond compare. You acted with firmness, enthusiasm and intelligence which made the task of everyone concerned with the production smoother. I am happy that you will be with us for another year because you are the kind of student that is exemplary.
Richard Wesley
Dear Richard, we all know that it is very difficult to write a play with proficiency, understanding and passion. When one as young as you are was given an award last year for merit in playwriting from Samuel French, it showed that beyond our department you were recognized. It is a special honor to give our highest award, the Brooks-Hines Silver Medal to you as you graduate from our department.
Phylicia Allen
Dear Phylicia, a 3.8 average is something to behold, and so are you as a person: personable, intellectual, spirited and spiritual. We have great faith in the radiant future for you.
Pearl Cleage
Pearl, you have a 3.84 average. You are a sample of the kind of student who can fulfill her academic requirements and also laboratory work. We are happy that you are with us.
1965/1966 - Owen V. Dodson, Head of Department of Drama
1965/1966 - Owen V. Dodson, Head of Department of Drama
Dean: Warner Lawson, College of Fine Arts
Major: B. F. A. in Drama
Areas of Concentration: Dramatic Literature, Directing and Production, Acting, Design, Technical Production and Lighting Technical Theatre
Staff: one full time secretary
Howard Players President: ?
Faculty:
Professor - Owen V. Dodson
Associate Professor - James W. Butcher, William T. Brown, Marion McMichael
Assistant Professor - Theodis Shine
Instructor - John Foreman, William Davis, Eulalia Shizu Coles
Lecturer P/T - none
Collection, Channing Pollock, "“Blues for Mr. Charlie”" (1965). Theatre Programs. 16. https://dh.howard.edu/africana_theatre/16
Fall Semester 1965 Season Theme: The 19th Century Revisited & The 20th Century of the Violent Absurd
BLUES FOR MR CHARLIE written by James Baldwin (Collegiate Premiere)
Directed by Owen Dodson
Date: Nov. 4-6, 11-13, 1965
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Lenny Chap,an, Lee Hancock, Ronald Parker, Edward Darden, Cynthia Barksdale King, Charles Michael, Sheppard D. O'Neal II, Jesse Fax, Fatima M. Zein, Robert Wood, Fran Elmer, Al Cherry, Charles Bettis, Eddie Marcus, Elaine B. Shore, Suzanne Donner-Swain, Stella Rowell, Gerald Ragland, Jr. Bob Rainey, Herbert Woofter, Reginald Farmer, Walter Burke, Richard Wesley, Wendy Shore, Angela Macklin, Stella Rowell, Judy Swan, Bob Rainey, Suzanne Donner-Swain, Nancy Carter, Louise Heath, Sherwood Kendall, Pearl S[ears. Andrea Case, Michelle Deal, Marian Brown, Shirley Brookins, Jo Helen Alexander, Charles Butler, Joy Blanks
Design/Creative: William T. Brown, Setting & Lighting. Shizu, Costumes.
Stage Management: Oswald Ratteray, Stage Manager. Harold Fore & Gwen Anderson, Assistant Stage Managers
November 11th performance sponsored by: THE STUDENT NONVIOLENT COORDINATING COMMITTEE
NOTES FOR BLUES for MISTER CHARLIE
This play has been on my mind for years. It is based, very distantly indeed, on the case of Emmett Till - the Negro youth who was murdered in Mississippi in 1955. The murderer in this case was acquitted.
What is ghastly and really almost hopeless in our racial situation now is that the crimes we have committed are so great and so unspeakable that the acceptance o t his knowledge would lead, literally, to madness. The human being, then, in order to protect himself, closes his eyes, compulsively repeats his crimes, and enters a spiritual darkness which no one can describe.
But if it s is true, and I belive it is, that all men are brothers, then we have the duty to try to understand this wretched man; and while we probably cannot hope to liberate him, begin working toward the liberation of his children. For we, the American people, have created him, he is our servant; it is we who put the cattle-prodder in his hands, and we are responsible for the crimes that he commits . It is we who have locked him in the prison of color. It is we who have persuaded him that Negroes are worthless human beings, and that it is his sacred duty, as a white man, to protect the honor and purity of his tribe. It is we who have forbidden him, on pain of excluseion from the tribe, to accept his beginnings when he and black people loved each other, and rejoice in them, and use them, it is we who have made it mandatory - honorable - that a white fther should deny black son. These are grave crimes indeed, and we have committed them and continue to commit them in order to make money.
The play then, for me, takes place in Plaguetown, U.S.A. , now. The plague is race, the plague is our concept of Christianity: and this raging plague has the power to destroy every human relationship. I once took a short trip with Medgar Evers to the back-woods of Mississippi. he was investigating the murder of a Negro man by a white storekeeper which had taken place months before. Many people talked to Medgsr that night, in dark cabins, with their lights out, in whispers; and we had been followed for many miles out of Jackson, Mississippi, not by a lunatic with a gun, but by state troopers. I will never forget that night as I will never forget Medar - who took me to the plane the next day. We promised to see each other soon. When he died, something entered into me which I cannot describe, but it was then that I resolved that nothing under heaven would prevent me from getting this play done. We are walking in terrible darkness here, and this is one man's attempt to bear witness to the reality and the power of light. ~ James Baldwin, New York. April, 1964
Stuart A. Rose Manuscript, Archives, and Rare Book Library, Emory University. https://archives.libraries.emory.edu/repositories/7/resources/2331 Accessed April 27, 2022
2. ARMS AND THE MAN written by George Bernard Shaw (comedy)
Directed by James Butcher
Date: Dec 8-11, 17, 18, 1965
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre.
Cast: Loretta Greene, Glenda Dickerson, Cheryl McLeish, David Riddick, REginald Farmer, Beauris Whitehead, Richard Jackson, St. Clair Christmas
Design/Creative: William Brown, Set Design. Shizu, Costume Design
Stuart A. Rose Manuscript, Archives, and Rare Book Library, Emory University. https://archives.libraries.emory.edu/repositories/7/resources/2331 Accessed April 27, 2022
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 12-17-1965" (1965). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 108. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/108
Stuart A. Rose Manuscript, Archives, and Rare Book Library, Emory University. https://archives.libraries.emory.edu/repositories/7/ resources/2331 Accessed April 27, 2022
THREE ONE ACT PLAYS of the Absurd:
THE ACADEMY written by Mario Fratti.
THE RETURN written by Mario Fratti
THE SANDBOX written by Edward Albee
Directed by Owen Dodson
Date: Feb. 17-19, 24-16, 1966
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Collection, Channing Pollock, "“The Three Penny Opera”" (1966). Theatre Programs. 12. https://dh.howard.edu/africana_theatre/12
Spring Semester 1966 Season Theme: The 19th Century Revisited & The 20th Century of the Violent Absurd
2. THE THREE PENNY OPERA (Musical) Book by Bertold Brecht. Music by Kurt Weill
Directed by Ted Shine
Date: April 28-30, May 5-7 1966
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Gilbert Thomas, Kenneth Daugherty, james Butcher (faculty), Adrienne Wilcos, Elaine Shore, Dick Gebhart, Reginald Farmer, Saundra Williams, Sheppard O'Neal, Bobby Dukes, Clyde Grunn, Harold Fore, Geoffrey Newman, Rene Cook, Fran Elmer, Ruby Sanders, Cheryl McLeish, Stanley Farrell, Jessie Fax, Tony Lee, Gerald Kennedy, Candace Tarpley, Ulysses Parnell, Windy Shore, Tolita Tilman, Sherwood Kindall, Eilene McKinney, Cathy Cole, Louise Heath, David Riddick
Design/Creative: William T. Brown, Technical Director. Carol Hamilton, Choreographer. Rosondo Santos, Musical Direction. William T. Brown, Setting and Lighting. Shizu, Costumes. Marion McMichael, Acting Coach.
Production/Stage Management: Sheppard O'Neal, Stage Manager. Jimmy Wilks, Assistant Stage Manager.
1964/1965 - Owen V. Dodson, Head of Department of Drama
1964/1965 - Owen V. Dodson, Head of Department of Drama
Dean: Warner Lawson, College of Fine Arts
Major: B. F. A. in Drama
Areas of Concentration: Dramatic Literature, Directing and Production, Acting, Design, Technical Production and Lighting
Staff: one full time secretary
Howard Players President: ? (Ted Shine advisor)
Faculty:
Professor - Owen V. Dodson
Associate Professor - Marian Rooney McMichael, Whitney Le Blanc, James Butcher (also Director of Cramton Auditorium)
Assistant Professor - Theodis Shine
Instructor - Eulalia Shizu Coles, Marc Weiss
On Leave: William T. Brown
Excerpt from 1967/68 College of Fine Arts Annual Report, Drama Department Section
Pg. 127... "We teach the meaning of freedom when we teach the young to explore the world of imagination and art. We give the private instruction which can enable young men and women to hold our against the torrent. We help to restore the intellectual vitality, the self-confidence, the moral dignity of the contemporary individual by the imaginative reconstruction of human experience. In doing so, we can show that human life is greater, more innoble, more wide-ranging in its possibilities than the particular embodiment it now takes in the politics and disorder of our present moment."
This statement by Dr. Harold Taylor holds a great deal of the essence of what the Drama Department has attempted to accomplish during the past few years when world survival seems uncertain and racial strife has caused confusion, discontent, darkness zig-zags of direction in so many of our young people.
To this end we have strengthened our course offerings and reshaped some of the methods of teaching to present more vividly the course and laboratory material.
Fall Semester 1964 (no season theme)
DUTCHMAN written by LeRoi Jones
Directed by Owen Dodson
Date: Oct. 21-23, 30-31,1964
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Charles Bettis, Sally Crowell
Design/Creative: by Whiteny Le Blanc. Costumes by St. Clair Christmas
SHO IS HOT IN THE COTTON PATCH written by Ted Shine
Directed by Owen Dodson
Date: Oct. 21-24, 29-31, 1964
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre.
Cast: Robbie Cooper, Sally Crowell, Miriam Stovall, E. Diana Russell, Gwendolyn Anderson
Design/Creative: Whiteny Le Blanc, Set Design. St. Clair Christmas, Costume Design.
Stuart A. Rose Manuscript, Archives, and Rare Book Library, Emory University. https://archives.libraries.emory.edu/repositories/7/resources/2331 Accessed April 27, 2022
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 10-13-1964" (1964). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 85. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/85
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 10-30-1964" (1964). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 87. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/87
3. JAMAICA (a Musical comedy) written by E.Y. Harburg & Fred Saidy. Lyrics by E. Y. Harburg.
Date: Dec 3-5, 10-12, 1964
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Sandra Butler, Daisy Bennet, Damon Braswell, David Riddick, Ernestine Bush, St. Clair Christmas, David Fax
Design/Creative: Marc Weiss, Set & Lighting Design. Louis Johnson, Choreographer. Shizu Coles, Costume Design. Harold Wheeler, Music (graduate student)
Saff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 12-4-1964" (1964). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 90. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/90
Howard Players 1965 Bermuda Tour
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 2-12-1965" (1965). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 93. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/93
Owen Dodson's Notes for the Bermuda Tour
Owen Dodson's Notes for the Bermuda Tour
Stuart A. Rose Manuscript, Archives, and Rare Book Library, Emory University. https://archives.libraries.emory.edu/repositories/7/resources/2331 Accessed April 27, 2022
Cast: Robbie Cooper, Damon Brazwell, Charles Michael, Vicki Thomas, Jacqueline Majors, Helmar Cooper, Jean Thornton, Glenda Dickerson, Frances Elmer, Daisy Bennett, Diane Russell, Charles Michael, Alfred Field, David Riddick, Joan Williams
Ossie Davis Visit
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 3-15-1965" (1965). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 96. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/96
Til Victory is Won (Opera)
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 4-23-1965" (1965). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 100. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/100
Stuart A. Rose Manuscript, Archives, and Rare Book Library, Emory University. https://archives.libraries.emory.edu/repositories/7/resources/2331 Accessed April 27, 2022
Spring Semester 1965 (no season theme)
A STEETCAR NAMED DESIRE written by Tennessee Wiliams.
Directed by Whitney Le Blanc
Date: Feb 18-20, 26-27, 1965
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Renato Coutinho (professional actor), Salley Crowell, Norman Fitz, Loretta Greene
Design: Costumes by Shizu. Lighting by Marc Weiss. Whitney Le Blanc, Set Design.
AIR RAID written by Archibald MacLeish
Directed by Owen Dodson
Date: May 15, 1965
Produced in William Penn Senior High School Auditorium
HAPPY JOURNEY written by Thornton Wilder
Directed by Owen Dodson
Date: Feb. 4-6, 1965
Produced in William Penn Senior High School Auditorium
Date: Jan. 17-24, 1965
Presented in Bermuda. Guests of the University Alumni Association in Bermuda, Jan. 17-23, 1965
TIL VICTORY IS WON a new opera about Medgar Evers (Opera) - Music Mark Fax Libretto Owen Dodson.
Directed by Owen Dodson
Stuart A. Rose Manuscript, Archives, and Rare Book Library, Emory University. https://archives.libraries.emory.edu/repositories/7/resources/2331 Accessed April 27, 2022
1964/65 Department of Drama Annual Awards Night 5/7/65
Jean Thornton
Already you have received the Lucy Moten Fellowship to study the Theatre of the Absurd in England this summer; you also have been selected as the best actress in teh Washington Recreation Departments Annual Tournament involving Nineteen groups of players. We want to add to these the statement that you have honored this department by your intellectual and creative capacities.
Jessie Norman
It is a joy to find a person with an intuitive feeling for the theatre. Your mother in "Til Victory is Won' showed us the understanding you have of music and the heart of a black woman who has survived, "A Bitter Life" to help the limping present and we hope a settled future. Act and sing with us again. We need each other.
Richard Wesley
You are of good cheer as a personality. You have a talent for playwriting that projected further will make you capable of helping us understand what can make life bearable even in sour ghettos. Keep your penetrating spirit and sharp observation, optimism and worth.
Tom Holt
You have gone about participating in the Department activities with quiet , effective graciousness. Your participation especially in student productions has been a heartening experience for all. You have been gentlemenly and true. You helped open our theatre with your performance in "Blood Wedding". Thank you and good luck after your graduation year.
Robbie Cooper
You have graduated and grown in your craft. You have demonstrated this in your performances of Carrie, the neurotic hellion in "Cotton Patch"; the old woman in "Air Raid" and the eternal mother in the "The Happy Journey". Your style as a performer has had individuality and disciplined purpose.
Oswald Ratteray
You are majoring in English but your disciplined and gentlemanly deportment, your real feeling for the theatre makes us want you to move into production. Your command of the stage managership of our last plays of the season was through and thoughtful and efficient. Thank you Oswald for these traits and Bermuda.
1963/1964 - Owen V. Dodson, Head of Department of Drama
1963/1964 - Owen V. Dodson, Head of Department of Drama
Dean: Warner Lawson, College of Fine Arts
Major: B. F. A. in Drama
Areas of Concentration: Dramatic Literature, Directing and Production, Acting, Design, Technical Production and Lighting
Staff: Mrs. Lee (Secretary)
Howard Players President: ?
Faculty:
Professor - Owen V. Dodson
Associate Professor - James W. Butcher Jr, Whitney Le Bland, Marion Rooney McMichael
Assistant Professor - Carlton Molette, Ted Shine
Instructor - Shizu Coles
Lecturer P/T - Richard Hawkshawe (P/T student teaching fencing)
Excerpt from 1963/64 College of Fine Arts Annual Report, Drama Department Section
Pg. 127...Summer Theatre has taken on an importance all over the countty, especially in university communities. For Howard University it would have a vital cultural meaning since so many students come from areas where there is no live theatre. For the Washington community it would be deeply welcomed. Olney is far away comparatively, Carter Baron appeals mostly to light entertainment lovers; The Water Gate has presented mostly operattas or musicals; Arena Stage is closed. For the drama students: it would free them from academic pressures and allow them to concentrate solely on their major interest and mingle with some professional players. Most summer theatres that hire Negroes give them little opportunity to fulfill themselves outside of strictly racial roles. The company formed in the summer could be held together to tout areas where good legitimate theatre is greatly needed.
A graduate program leading to the M.F.A. degree. if for no other reason then that, Negroes and many foreigners have not been ald will not be fully integrated in many drama programs especially in respect to acting. This would entail hiring more instructos and enlarging our complex. Also to this point we have a good theatre collection presented to Howard University by Miss Helen Channing Pollock in honor of her father, Channing Pollock. The university has been generous in supporting it. But in order for the collection to function for students on the graduate level, it needs extensive cataloging in terms of the clipping files. This wold entail hiring two assistant librarians who had knowledge of theatre and drama.
Fall Semester 1963 (no season theme)
CARNIVAL (Musical) Music and Lyrics by Bob Merril. Book by Michael Stewart
Musical Director Harold Wheeler. Choreography by Louis Johnson
Directed by Ted Shine
Date: Oct. 31, Nov. 1-2, 7-9
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Kenneth Daugherty, David Riddick, Ronald Fluellen, Beauris Whitehead, Johnny Starkey, Kevin Lovette, Ronald Ausbrooks, Charles Cambell, Richard Magruder, james Fair, Daniel Hodge, Ernestine Moss, Ronny Steward, Jani Beaver, Carmen Wright, Bridget Wright, James Brown, Vernando Brown, Alexander Rodriguz, Carmen Daugherty, Margaret Cowie, Ulysses Parnell, Alfred Field, Charles Hughes, Mickey Gallimore, Anita Henderson, Shirley Clark, Charlotte Fleming, Diana Horn, Ruby Saunders, Jacqueline Majors, Pamela Wood, Bonnie Johnson, Janice Black, Dorothy Dinroe, Eloise Massey Miriam Stovall, Blanch Carter, Bettye Evans, Daisy Bennett, Vickie Moio, Sheryl Martin, Mercedes Ball
Design/Creative: Carlton Molette, Technical Director & Set Design. Shizu, Costumes. Samuel Wright (student), Lighting.
Stage Management: Robert Edward West
LONG DAY’S JOURNEY INTO NIGHT written by Eugene O’Neill
Directed by Owen Dodson
Date: Dec. 5-7, 12-14
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre.
Cast: David Riddick, Toni Escoe, Walter Julio, Joseph Miller, Sheryl Martin
Design/Creative: Carlton Molette, Technical Director & Set Design. Shizu, Costumes. Jean Thornton (student), Lighting.
Stage Management: Daisy Bennett
1998 Gift from Bob West, '64 Howard alum. Researchers private collection.
March 18, 1964. Owen Dodson with Sidney Poitier in hallway of Department of Theatre Arts. Photo credit: Patrick H. Levenson, Art Dept. Howard University May 1963. Emory University Hatch Billops Collection
1998 Gift from Bob West, '64 Howard alum. Researchers private collection.
Spring Semester 1964 (no season theme)
PURLIE VICTORIOUS written by Ossie Davis (Productions seminar class)
Directed by Robert West
Date: Feb. 7,8, 1964
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Helmar Cooper, Charlena Moten, Ernestine Moss, James Fair, Armstead Barnett, Sheryl Martin, James Butcher, Carlton Molette
Design/Creative: Robert West (student), Set/Costume/Lighting
Stage/Production Management: James Richardson, Stage Manager
A MEDIEVAL EASTER RESURRECTION PLAY (with the Office of the Chapel)
Directed by Mark Epstein. Music by Mark Fax
Date: March 22 & 26, 1964
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: David Riddick, Michael Lee, Marvin Matthews, Jim Cummings, James Richardson, Ralford Dismucke, Beauris Whitehead, Antoinette Escoe, Robbie McCauley, Shirley Saddler, Hjelmar Cooper, Richard Wesley, Alfred Field, Damon Brazwell, Maurice Welles, Oswald Rattaway, Richard Purnell, Lawrence Jones, Armstead Barnett, Kevin Loette, Ronald Stone, Leo Buvhanan
Design/Creative: Carlton Molette, Technical Director & Set Design. Shizu, Costumes. Robert West (student), Lighting. Dr. Evans Crawford, Dean of the Chapel
Stage/Production Management: Owen Dodson, Production Manager. Hjelmar Cooper, Stage Manager
HAMLET written by William Shakespeare
Directed by Owen Dodson
Date: April 23, 24,25, 30. May 1,2nd 1964
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Damon Brazwell, Mabel Kibble, St. Clair Christmas, Helmar Cooper, James W. Butcher (faculty), Alfred Field, Vicki Thomas, Richard Hawkshawe, Oswald Ratteray, Ralph Dismuke, Arthur Scofield, Ceauris Whitehead, Kevin Lovette, Marvin Matthews, Sheryl McLeish, Pat Jones, Georgette Loring, David Riddick, Melvin Deal, Jean Thornton, Richard Wesley, Michael Lee, James Fair
Design/Creative: Carlton Molette, Technical Director. Kermit Keith, Set Design. Shizu, Costumes. Carlton Molette, Lighting
Stage/Production Management: Samuel Chagois, Mabel Kibble, Stage Manager. Assistant Stage Manager, Sheryl McLeish.
Stuart A. Rose Manuscript, Archives, and Rare Book Library, Emory University. https://archives.libraries.emory.edu/repositories/7/resources/2331 Accessed April 27, 2022
Stuart A. Rose Manuscript, Archives, and Rare Book Library, Emory University. https://archives.libraries.emory.edu/repositories/7/resources/2331 Accessed April 27, 2022
Stuart A. Rose Manuscript, Archives, and Rare Book Library, Emory University. https://archives.libraries.emory.edu/repositories/7/resources/2331 Accessed April 27, 2022
1963/64 Department of Drama Annual Awards Night 5/22/64
Kermit Keith
For the many imaginative and varied settings you designed both in Spaulding Hall and Ira Aldridge; for the shape of the crest of our department; for your encouraging presence; this silver medal struck in a city devoted to the arts and humanism: Florence, Italy, is a small gift in exchange for the art and humanism you have given us over thirteen years.
Shizu Coles
When you came to join the faculty in September this department had no tradition of costume design or execution. We were serviceable served by rental houses or hasty gathering together. Now all of that has changed with miraculous and dazzling results. You have shown the students that costuming can be an emotional complement to their acting, that fabric and color give as much life to a gesture as speech; that working in costume can be a joy. Above all you have made us all feel that you are a friend.
St. Clair Christmas
It is enough to say that your HAMLET fulfilled the prince in emotional, physical and vocal ways seldom felt in any university production, "The readiness is all."
Richard Hawkshawe
The fencing scene in HAMLET had a tearing tension and precision. You staged it to frighten our nerves. It did.
Mark Fax
You created a stirring cruel score for our RICHARD THE THIRD, a mysterious mystic one for the EASTER RESURRECTION PLAY. You were musical director for FINIAN'S RAINBOW and you wrote the opera: A CHRISTMAS MIRACLE in which we performed. It is time again to thank you.
Samuel Wright
Your stubborn refusal to be daunted by any problem as assistant designer in HAMLET was a joy to all of us.
Daisy Bennett
You went quietly about all the tasks set for you, performing them on time, never complaining; there was the box office throughout the year; stage manager for LONG DAY'S JOURNEY, wardrobe mistress for THE RESURRECTION PLAY. We welcome students like you always,.
Alfred Field
The critic of the Evening Star said that your puppets, CARROT TOP and THE WOLF were "wholly professional", that your sining of PAUL was "lyric and emotional", The Drama Department agrees with the Evening Star.
Marilyn Skelton
Props for THE RESURRECTION PLAY; lighting execution fo HAMLET and a right, sweetness have made you a valuable asset to the department.
1962/1963 - Owen V. Dodson, Head of Department of Drama
1962/1963 - Owen V. Dodson, Head of Department of Drama
Dean: Warner Lawson, College of Fine Arts
Major: B. F. A. in Drama
Areas of Concentration: Dramatic Literature, Directing and Production, Acting, Design, Technical Production and Lighting
Staff:
Howard Players President: ?
Faculty:
Professor - Owen V. Dodson
Associate Professor - James W. Butcher Jr (Manager of Cramton Auditorium) , William T. Brown, Marion Rooney McMichael
Assistant Professor - Ted Shine
Instructor - None
Lecturer P/T - None
Excerpt from 1962/63 College of Fine Arts Annual Report, Warner Lawson, Dean
Pg. 2... The year 1962-63 witnessed the awarding of two graduate degrees; the Master of Music degree and the Master of Fine Arts degree. The latter degree was awarded through the Graduate Council of the University, and its recipient, Mr. Lloyd McNeil whose area of concentration is painting, became the first student to receive this degree from the College of Fine Arts.
Pg. 3...The 1962-63 school year was also an important one for the Department of Drama. The high level of creativity resident in this department was revealed not only through the work of its student but through the creative activities of its faculty. Morning, Noon and Night, a play written by Mr. Theodis Shine of the departmental faculty, was given a series of performances on campus, as was an adaptation of the Greek classic of Medea. The adapted version of the Medea was given the title, "Medea in Africa", and the adaptation was that of the poet Countee Cullen and Owen Dodson, Head of the Department of Drama. It was through performances of this play that Howard was ably and significantly represented when the Department made a tour of Pennsylvania an dNew England during the year.
Project Awareness Negro Writer symposium in Cramton Auditorium 11/5/1962. Shared by Karen House, Howard University 1962-1965
Cramton Auditorium
The current school year marked the beginning of the operation of Cramton Auditorium under a full-time manager, an arrangement which made for more efficient supervision than here-to-fore. This year also the responsibilities of the manager were broadened to include Ira Aldridge Theatre and, under the supervision of the Dean of the College of Fine Arts, the management of the Howard University Cultural Series.
In terms of programming in the Auditorium, the year was a full one as is indicated in the table which follows. The table does not include the weekly scheduling of classes, namely, Humanities Lectures, Freshman Assembly, and Air Science. The regular use of the Auditorium for lage classes is unfortunate; it creates maintenance problems and is an undue tax on the upholstered seats and carpeting.
Project Awareness Negro Writer symposium in Cramton Auditorium 11/5/1962. Shared by Karen House, Howard University 1962-1965
Stuart A. Rose Manuscript, Archives, and Rare Book Library, Emory University. https://archives.libraries.emory.edu/repositories/7/resources/2331 Accessed April 27, 2022
Fall semester 1962 (no season theme)
MORNING, NOON AND NIGHT written by Ted Shine (Premiere performance Tragi-comedy)
Directed by Owen Dodson
Date: Dec 6, 7, 12-15 1962
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Harry Johnson, Alfredine Brown, Duane Mason, Sandra Houston
Design/Creative: St. Clair Christmas, Set Designer. William Maden, Music. Robert West (student), Lighting Design. Marion McMichael, Acting Coach
Stage Management: Carolyn McRae
EAST LYNNE written by Ned Albert
Directed by Ted Shine
Date: Oct. 25-27, Nov. 1-3 1962
Produced in Ira Aldridge
Design/Creative: Ted Shine
THE BLUE BIRD written by Maurice Maeterlinck (children’s theatre)
Directed by William T. Brown
Date: Nov. 15-16, 1962
Produced in Ira Aldridge
Design/Creative: William T. Brown, Set Design. Samuel Wright, Lighting.
Spring semester 1963 (no season theme mentioned)
FLY BLACKBIRD book and lyrics by James Hatch and C. Jackson. Music by C. Jackson
Date: Feb 28. March 1,2,7,8,9 1963
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Edmere Winfield, Alfred Field, Ronald Stewart, Wilma Shakesnider, Vickie Moio, Bonnie Jonson, Cornell Talley, Guy West, Barbara Martin, Dorothy Rudd, Beauris, Whitehead, Armstead Barnett, Donald Leace, Carmen Wright, Richard Magruder, Miriam Stovall, James Butcher (faculty), Louise Settle, Nokomis Jefferson, Edna Weir, Charles Campbell, Charles Augius, Ralford Dismucke, Eleanor Bryant, Florence Humphrey, Sandra Banfield, Carmen Wright, William Taylor, Annette Miller
Design/Creative: William T. Brown, Set Design. St. Clair Christmas, Costumes
Stage Management: Robert West
MEDEA IN AFRICA by Euripides
Directed by Owen Dodson. Adapted by Countee Cullen. Music by William Madden. Choreography by Charles Davis. Musical Director Dorothy Rudd
Date: April 25-27 May 1-3rd 1963
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Judith Eason, Shirley SAddler, Toni Escoe, James Fair, St. Clair Christmas, Michael Lee, Toni Lee, Sandi Stewart, Robbie McCauley, Richard Hawkshawe, Joseph C. D'Mello, helmar Cooper, Charles Davis, Ralford Dismukes, Joseph Miller, Melvin Deal, Jean Thornton, Ernestine Moss, Georgette Moring, Marilyn Thomas, Sandra Danfield, Florence Humphrey, Jackie Wright, Sandra Houston, Pat Edwards, Lynard Barnum, Beauris Whitehead, Henrietta Johnson, Glenda Dickerson
Design/Creative: William T. Brown, Set Design. St. Clair Christmas, Costumes. Samuel Wright, Lighting (student)
Stage Management: Paul Allen, Stage Manager. Guy West, Assistant Stage Manager
OEDIPUS REX by Sophocles
Directed by David A. Harris
Date: March 19, 1963
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
At the invitation of the Drama Department the SILLIMAN COLLEGE PLAYERS of YALE UNIVERSITY PRESENTED SOPHOCLE'S OEDIPUS REX
Collection, Channing Pollock, "“Medea in Africa”" (1963). Theatre Programs. 16. https://dh.howard.edu/africana_theatre/16
1961/1962 - Owen V. Dodson, Head of Department of Drama
1961/1962 - Owen V. Dodson, Head of Department of Drama
Dean: Warner Lawson, College of Fine Arts
Major: B. F. A. in Drama
Areas of Concentration: Dramatic Literature, Directing and Production, Acting, Design, Technical Production and Lighting
Staff: ?
Howard Players President: ?
Faculty:
Professor - Owen V. Dodson
Associate Professor - James W. Butcher Jr., William T. Brown, Marion Rooney McMichael,
Assistant Professor - Theodis Shine
Instructor - None
Lecturer P/T - None
Excerpt from 1961/62 College of Fine Arts Annual Report, Warner Lawson, Dean
Pg. 2...Operating for the first time as an integrated unit under one roof, the School of Music and the Departments of Art and Drama achieved effective first year evidence of "togetherness". Joint faculty meetings were entered into with enthusiasm and creative thinking by the entire faculty. Legislation affecting curriculum changes and heightened criteria for the ranks of Associate and Professional levels were adopted; means by which the new college could affect constructively the whole area of "culture on campus" were considered; a decision to greatly expand our offerings in Evening and Summer Schools was made after exhaustive study and report by a small committee; and consideration of the ever changing problems of student discipline, stimulation, motivation and achievement.
Individual faculty meetings of handling problems peculiar and unique to that area. As a result, very real progress was made in terms of achieving a spirit of cooperative thinking in a new and challenging arena.
Pg. 14-15...The head of the department of Drama reports a most exciting year in which major productions were stimulated by appreciative audiences. Four major productions of contrasting type and mood were offered with great success. Effective stage design and creative lighing enhanced each production and the full possibilities of Ira Aldridge Theatre were made effectively apparent. Guest actors Gordon Heath, Lee Payant and Clayton Corbin who performed with teh students "added to their sense of discipline, consciousness of the need for concentration and their knowledge of what it takes in technical skill to become a professional." Another experience of inestimable value was the visit of Mr. James Forsyth author of "Defiant Island" who worked effectively with director and students in the preparation of the first performance of a new play.
Splendid and effective cooperation of drama, music and art produced a Christmas program of beauty and splendor. The cooperation of dancers from the Modern Dance Grojp of the Department of Physical Education for Women completed with grace and distinction the unity of the Fine Arts.
Howard Players participate in the Yale University Undergraduate Drama Festival
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 3-2-1962" (1962). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 27. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/27
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 5-25-1962" (1962). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 37. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/37
Fall semester 1961 (no season theme)
RASHOMON written by Fay and Michael Kanin
Directed by Owen Dodson
Date: Oct. 25-28, Nov. 2-4, 1961
Produced in: Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Joseph C. D'Mello, Ronald E. Stone, Halmar Cooper, Kenneth W. Daugherty, Ernest Long, Karl Folkes, Villesta Thomas, Kay Mott, Lillian Knowles
Design/Creative: Lawrence Rosenthal, Music. William T. Brown, Design. Samuel Wright, Lighting. Alpa C. Blackburn, Costumes & Make-up.
Stage/Production Management: Janice Wadkins, Stage Manager
ON THE TOWN (Musical Comedy) Book and lyrics by Betty Comden and Adolph Green. Music by Leonard Bernstein
Directed by Ted Shine. Musical Director Clyde Parker
Date: Dec. 6-9, 13-15, 1961
Produced in: Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Richard Person, robert Bacon, Ernie Long, Hiwatha Brown, Kenneth Daugherty, St. Clair Christmas, Joseph Miller, Nokomis Jefferson, Lillian Smith, Patricia Mallette, Houston Baker, Janice Wadkins, Richard Person, Clintona Jackson, Leo Buchanan, La Vone Vanderveer, Richard Mac Gruder, Harry Johnson, Richard Person, houston Baker, James Fair, Shirley Saddler, Helmar Cooper, Harry Johnson, Judith Poulson, Roy Gean, Gloria Terry, Sherrill Lucas, Saundra Hampton, Thomas Holt, Marcia Pinkett, Ernie Long, Gwen Hines, Richard Person, Ernest Long, Robert Bacon, Vicki Thomas, Carolyn MacRae, Laverne Ligon
Design/Creative: William T. Brown, Technical Director. Robert West, Lighting. Hiawatha Brown, Scenery & Costumes. Choreography by Jones-Haywood School of Ballet
Stage/Production Management: Helmar Cooper, Stage Manager. Florence Humphrey, Assistant Stage Manager
ANNUAL CHRISTMAS CONCERT (Howard Players production)
Date: Dec. 10, 1961
In conjunction with the University Choir
Spring semester 1962 (no season theme)
THE TRAGICAL HISTORY OF DR. FAUSTUS written by Christopher Marlowe
Directed by Owen Dodson
Date: March 8-10, 15-17, 1962
Produced in: Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Gordon Heath (professional actor), Lee Payant (professional actor), Burchell Russell, Leo Buchanan, Robert Fergusson, Richard Person, Joseph C. D'Mello, Michael Thelwell, Kenneth Daugherty, Alfred Field , Michael DuBois, Lillian Knowles, Charlotte Pierce, Karl Folkes, Lee Payant, Ernest Long, Hossein Sahafi, Saundra Stewart, Jacqueline Finney, Ronald Stone, Regina Jollivette, Richard Person, Kay Mott, Ronald Stone
Design/Creative: William T. Brown, Set Design & Technical Director. Robert West, Lighting Designer. William Madden, Music Composition. Marion R. McMichael, Speech & Acting Coach
Stage/Production Management: Lillian Knowles, Stage Manager. Jacqueline Cephas, Assistant Stage Manager
DEFIANT ISLAND written by John Forsyth
Directed by Owen Dodson (World Premier)
Date: April 26-28. May 3-5, 1962
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Clayton Corbin (professional actor), Alfredine Brown (professional actor), Joseph Miller, Christlen Petion, Norman Wilderson, Harry Johnson, St. Clair Christmas, Judith Eason, Hiawatha Brown, James W. Butcher, John Fleming, Alfred Field, Vernon Jones, Charles Davis, George Patterson, Charles Davis, Chassie Lynch, Chassie Lynch, Charles Davis, Dorothy Rudd, Sandra Filmore, Sheryll Williams, Barbara Martin, Mercedes Ball, Judith Eason, Ernestine Moss, Loretta Gilbert, William Taylor, Richard Cutting, George Patterson
Design/Creative: William T. Brown, Lighting & Settings. Hiawatha Brown, Costumes. Adeline Guilbaud, Voodoo Ritual
Stage/Production Management: Theodis Shine, Production Manager. Vernon Jones, Stage Manager. Vicki Thomas, Assistant Stage Manager
KAMPUS KAPERS lyrics by Irvin D. Reid. Music by Adolpus C. Hailstock III, Scenarios by Harry C. Johnson
Directed by Robert West
Date: May 18, 1962
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
The College of Fine Arts student council of 1961-1962 Financial Committee supported the presentation of the Junior Class Musical Comedy "Kampus Kapers" with a $108 contribution.
Cast: Phillip Carey, Eleanor Bowman, Wilmerlee Dixon, Jeanette Echols, Denis Gray, John Hanson, Gwendolyn Hines, Harry Johnson, Bernard Mavritte, Robert Mayes, Lorraine McCauley, Dorothy Rudd, Nyna Shannon, Jeanette Speights, Clyde Taylor, Donald Walker, Charles Younger, Albert Bacon, Timothy Roberson, James Nelson
Design/Creative: Samuel Wright, Lighting. Hiawatha Brown, Scenery & Posters.
Stage/Production Management: Patricia Mallette, Production Manager
Junior Class Officers: Adolphus Hailstork, President. brenda Dendy, Vice President. Patricia Mallette, Secretary. Donald Walker & Jeanette Echols, Council Representatives. Dr. Doris McGinty,Faculty Class Advisor.
THE SIGN OF JONAH written by Carl Rutenburg
Directed by Ted Shine
Date: April 1962
The Drama Department was invited to participate in the annual Drama Festival held each year at Yale University. Only twelve Colleges and Universities from over the entire country were asked to perform. The Sign of Jonah was presented at the festival.
Defiant Island program cover. Emory University Hatch Billops Collection. Accessed 2022
The Sunday Star. March 11, 1962, pg. D-8
4. THEATRE IN FASHION (Howard Players Production)
Staged by Alpha C. Blackburn, Hiawatha Brown & Kenneth Daugherty
Date: Feb. 17, 1962
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Models: Jean Thornton, Margaret Dodson, Susan LaPorte, Eleanor Traylor, Florence Humphrey, Jessie Mayo, Cynthia Sissle, Sherrill Lucas, Dolores Ames, Susan Barnes, Cora Bowie, Cynthia Savoy, Grace Jones, Virginia Williams, Yvonne Collins, Sandra Epps, Henrietta Johnson, Lawon Hinton, Phyllis Dove, Leatha McRuffin, Addie Walton, Evelyn Ledbetter, Thelma Blacknull, Ozzie Mitchell, Sonna Simms, Marcia Pinkett, Janice Parker
Design/Creative: Samuel Wright, Lighting. Kenneth Daugherty, Coiffures and Makeup
Stage/Production Management: Robert West, Stage Manager.
1998 Gift from Bob West, '64 Howard alum. Researchers private collection. HOWARD PLAYERS PRODUCTION
1998 Gift from Bob West, '64 Howard alum. Researchers private collection.
Stuart A. Rose Manuscript, Archives, and Rare Book Library, Emory University. https://archives.libraries.emory.edu/repositories/7/resources/2331 Accessed April 27, 2022
1998 Gift from Bob West, '64 Howard alum. Researchers private collection.
1961/62 Department of Drama Annual Awards Night
Helmar Cooper
In a foreign but Universal play you created a role of bitterness and shock with an intense emotional understanding, vocal skill and physical agility: The Wigmaker in RASHOMON
Vicki Thomas
You fashioned a woman of three different tempers in RASHOMON, your first role in this Drama Department, with a fulfillment of the physical, psychological and universal significance of this wife in RASHOMON.
Harry Johnson
From the acorn of a role you created a sheltering tree for Henry Christophe and for us: it was a tender and strong performance foreshadowing the future of Haiti and your own.
Vernon Jones
You have been quietly efficient, dependable in your first participation in this Drama Department's activities and we hope that this mention will help you to move along into your demonstrated interest.
Lillian Knowles
You were a pillar to the director and the staff, Lillian, during th erehearsals and performances of DR. FAUSTUS. Your duties as stage manager were carried forward as an example and a sample to the students.
Hiawatha Brown
You created a period and a mood in your design and selection of costumes for DEFIANT ISLAND: your design and setting plates for ON THE TOWN now on exhibit in the Green Room make that room: The Hiawatha Dwelling Place.
Carolyn MacRae
Your personal posture, industry and academic fulfillment in this Drama Department are right and shining. The faculty is proud you are among the students.
St. Clair Christmas
We are happy to have a person of your integrity, purpose and concern with this Department in the areas of acting technical work and general department.
Christlen Petion
The tragic and beautiful growth of a young Haitian Princess from girl to woman, you captured in your first dramatic role in the Drama Department's World Premiere DEFIANT ISLAND.
La Vone Venderveer
You drove that taxi, girl, into a man's heart with desirable and free-wheeling humor in ON THE TOWN.
Marcia Pinkett
You did two memorable things in ON THE TOWN: sneezed hilarity and the loneliness of the human condition into a role that could have been on thing alone.
Joseph Miller
Lonely and lovable, as Baby we all remember still a performance of courage and early craftsmanship in ON THE TOWN.
--College of Fine Arts 1961-1962 Annual Report Pgs. 153-155
1960/1961 - Owen V. Dodson, Acting Head, Department of Drama
1960/1961 - Owen V. Dodson, Acting Head, Department of Drama
Dean: Warner Lawson, College of Fine Arts
Major: B. F. A. in Drama
Areas of Concentration: Dramatic Literature, Directing and Production, Acting, Design, Technical Production and Lighting
Staff: one full time secretary
Howard Players: Richard O. Jackson (president), Hiawatha Brown (Recording Secretary, Marcia Pinkett (corresponding secretary), P. Merle Williams (treasurer), Michael E. DuBois (parliamentarian), Horacena Taylor (business manager), Helmar A. Cooper (sergeant-at-arms)
Faculty:
Professor - none
Associate Professor - Owen Dodson, James W. Butcher
Assistant Professor - William T. Brown
Instructor - none
Lecturer - none
Excerpt from 1961/62 College of Fine Arts Annual Report, Warner Lawson, Dean (1960/61 annual report is missing)
Pg. 148... An Awards Night was instituted last year (May 20, 1961) which gave those students who participated in the productions, or had high scholarship or carried themselves as examples of excellent character posture, a feeling of pride in their achievements. This same idea was carried through this year with good success.
Professor Kermit Keith designed the crest for the Drama Department and The Howard Players
COLLEGE OF FINE ARTS BULLETIN
In November 1960, after more than a half-century of separate progressive development, the school of Music and the Departments of Art and Drama were merged by action of the Board of Trustees into a School of Fine Arts.
For fifteen years prior to that date the University administration had regarded the eventual establishment of a College of Fine Arts as a desirable educational and cultural goal. The realization of this goal almost precisely at mid-century is an event of great significance in American education, which testifies not only to the further enrichment of the educational resources of Howard University but also to the vast potential influence that the University may wield in the areas of professional education and creative activity.
The completion of a new building to house the arts at Howard under one roof is additional evidence of the capacity of the University to sustain an integrated growth of the arts.
The School of Music was organized in 1914 by vote of the Board of Trustees upon recommendation of the President of the University, Dr. Stephen M. Newman. It was then called the Conservatory of Music. The circumstances which led to the creation of this new unit within the University may best be explained in the words of the writer of the following statement which appeared in the University Bulletin at that time:
The work of the Music Department of Howard University has grown in standard, excellence, and success, until the time has come when it should take some definite name under which it can realize many of the great possibilities which lie before it. It will, therefore, be designated, hereafter, bu vote of the Board of Trustees, as the Conservatory of Music of Howard University.
Art at the University became a matter of formal instruction in 1921 when the Department of Architecture, then a part of the School of Applied Science, announced courses in freehand drawing and watercolor painting as features of the curriculum of architecture.
In 1923, under the leadership of James V. Herring, the Department of Art was formed as an autonomous unity with a four-year curriculum involving both liberal and technical studies.
In 1927, the Department o presented its first candidates for the degree B.S. in Art, and at the same time own recognition through accreditation by the College Art Association of America.
In 1933, the Department of Art was transferred to the College of Liberal Arts and its curricular offerings revamped to harmonize with the requirements in general education. Its development was not curtailed thereby, however, only redirected. In 1947, a graduate program in art was added, leading to opportunities for specialized professional study which the new College of Fine Arts will foster.
The Department of Drama at Howard University was established in 1949 under the chairmanship of Dr. Anne Cooke Reid, after the Howard Players returned from a European Tour which was the first cultural exchange on a student level after World War II.
Photo: Howard University, "The Bison: 1950" (1950). Howard University Yearbooks. 119. https://dh.howard.edu/bison_yearbooks/119
--From:1962-1963 College of Fine Arts Bulletin. Moorland Spingarn Archives
The Players were invited by the Norwegian Government to perform their production of Ibsen's The Wild Duck and Dorothy and Du Bose Heyward's Mamba's Daughters in Norway, Denmark, and Sweden. Following that tour the High Commissioner of Germany requested the players to appear in the Western Zone. They made fifty-four appearances in 14 cities and 4 countries.
The Howard Players, an essential part of the Department, one of the oldest university groups in the United States, was founded in 1907. From that time until the creation of the Department of Drama, the drama program was carried forward under the leadership of Dr. Alain Locke, Professors Sterling Brown, Montgomery Gregory and James W. Butcher Jr.
OBJECTIVES OF COLLEGE OF FINE ARTS
Lead the student into an awareness of the requirements of his profession as an artist
Train teaches in the areas of music, art and drama
Encourage and promote the highest creativity in music, art, and drama
Demonstrate the unity of the arts and their value in intercultural communication
Provide opportunities for community participation in the fine arts
--From:1962-1963 College of Fine Arts Bulletin. Moorland Spingarn Archives
December 20, 1960 Drama, Art & Music move into the College of Fine Arts Lulu Vere Childers Building
Department of Drama
Major Areas in Drama: Playwriting and Dramatic Literature, Directing and Production, Acting, Design, Technical Production and Lighting
It is in Drama that one can graphically see how all the Fine Arts work together to create a kind of excitement and variety of aesthetic experience which is peculiarly its own. Drama can be a summit and coordinator of the arts in performance. This concept of Drama and the Fine Arts is the goal of this Department.
The Department of Drama presents plays that utilize dramatic poetry, music, dance and the visual arts; plays by new and student playwrights; presentations from the long history of dramatic literature from every country reflecting many cultures directed by faculty and guest artists.
In cooperation with the School of Music operas from the past and present are staged. The Drama Division offers an undergraduate course of study, leading to the B.F.A. degree, designed to prepare its students for (1) advanced professional training in all areas of theatre production, technical supervision, playwriting and theatre history; (2) positions as drama teachers and directors in secondary schools; (3) positions in municipal recreation departments.
Each student is required to major in one of the four areas of Drama. if he wishes to minor in any other given area he should consult with the Head of the Department.
--1962-1963 College of Fine Arts Bulletin. Moorland Spingarn Research Center Howard Players Archives
Students who registered in the College of Liberal Arts before the establishment of The College of Fine Arts and do not wish to obtain the B.F.A. degree may continue their program as established when they entered.
Fall semester 1960 (no season theme)
OUR TOWN (Howard Players Production)
Date: Fall 1960
Cast: presented primarily by freshman
Staff, Hilltop, "The Hilltop 10-14-1960" (1960). The Hilltop: 1960-70. 2. http://dh.howard.edu/hilltop_196070/2
Fine Arts Buildings Complex: Cramton, Aldridge & Childers
The Long Walk. Harry Robinson III & Hazel Ruth Edwards. Howard University Press, 1996. Pg 5/13
The Evening Star. June 6, 1961. Pg. A-3
Spring Semester 1961 (no season theme)
BLOOD WEDDING written by Frederico Garcia Lorca (Premier Production in Ira Aldridge Theatre)
Directed by Owen Dodson
Date: Feb. 20-25, 1961
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Shirley Christine Saddler, St. Clair Christmas, Chassie Lynch, Betty Belinda Broadnax, Ann Eastman Ellison, Tom Holt, Patricia Edwards, LaRue Jones, Joseph C. D'Mello, Joyce Hopkins Williams, Sandra Hampton, Betty Brown, Edward R. Batten, John A. Jones, Angeloyd Bolar, leo Buchannan, Linda Welch, Ralph McCoy, Joyce Lacy, Sandra Hurt, Robert Holmes, Cornell E. Talley, P. Merle Williams, Charlie Tinsley, Linda Welch, Kenneth Daugherty, Jacqueline Cephas, Edward R. Batten, John A. Jones, Lorena Smith, Helmar Cooper, Peggy Sue Bailey, Saundra Hampton, Mical Whittaker, Theodore Avery
Design/Creative: Richard Keith, Music. Kermit Keith & William T. Brown, Set Design. James Butcher, Lighting Design. St. Clair Christmas, Costume Design. P. Merle Williams, Dances
Stage Manager: Robert West & Patricia D. Lucas, Stage Manager
THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST written by Oscar Wilde (comedy)
Directed by James W. Butcher
Date: April 10-15, 1961
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Helmar Cooper, Kenneth Daugherty, Betty Broadnax, Joyce Williams, Marjorie Peyton
Design: Hiawatha Brown, Scenic Designer (student)
CHARADE produced by Owen Dodson
Date: May 15-20, 1961
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
An evening with The Howard Players Past and Present, Broadway and TV stars. For the Student Scholarship Fund
Cast: Donald Leace (alum/professional actor), Alice Davenport (alum), Betty Broadnax, Kenneth Dougherty, Samuel Wright, Carolyn Hill Stewart (professional actress), Helen Barnes, Joyce Williams (alum), Hiawatha Brown, Cornell Talley, Earle Hyman (professional actor), Robert Holmes, Harold Martin, James Nelson
Design/Creative: St. Clair Christmas, Set Design. Robert West, Lighting (student)
Stage Manager: Helmar Cooper
CHANDALIKA written by Rabindranath Tagore
Directed by James Butcher
Date: May 2-3, 1961
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Shirley Sadler, Beverley Bolser, Joseph D'Mello
Design/Creative: St. Clair Christmas, Set Design. William T. Brown, Lighting
ANTIGONE written by Sophocles
Directed by Owen Dodson
Date: April 25-29, 1961
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Joseph D'Mello, Patricia Moore, Kenneth Dougherty, Antoinette Esco, Maxwell Banks, Lorena Smith, Mikal Whitaker
Design/Creative: St. Clair Christmas, Set & Costume Design
Collection, Channing Pollock, "“Blood Wedding”" (1961). Theatre Programs. 16. https://dh.howard.edu/africana_theatre/16
The Evening Star. April 9 1961 Pg. D-10
The Evening Star. April 18, 1961. Pg.C-16
CLICK HERE to review 1960 -1950 Theatrical Production History
Please note, this research site is not a comprehensive report on all Department of Theatre Arts performance/workshop/symposia/masterclass presentations. Nor is it comprehensive for all Howard Players performance presentations. Nor is this a comprehensive report on the Dance area performance/workshop/masterclass presentations. The research continues.
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