Lecture on African-American Representation in Early American Entertainment

Overview

• Immigrant Influence: As immigrant groups established themselves in America, their presence in theaters increased, leading to changes in how they were portrayed on stage.
• African-American Exclusion: African-Americans were largely excluded from mainstream Vaudeville and were often depicted through stereotypes.

Minstrel Shows

• Beginnings: In the 1840s, minstrel shows became America's first entertainment craze.
  • Originated with Northern white performers imitating black slaves.
  • Use of blackface to perform songs and actions observed from slaves.
• African-American Response: Formation of their own minstrel groups as "real Negro delineators" to offer authenticity that white performers couldn't match.

Blackface and Stereotyping

• Continued Stereotyping: Even with African-American minstrel troops, blackface and stereotypes persisted in Vaudeville acts.
• Social Context: During this time, African-Americans faced severe discrimination, including lynching and exclusion from mainstream society.
• Representation in Music: Popular songs depicted black life as carefree and non-threatening, reinforcing stereotypes.

Personal Accounts and Reflections

• Perception: Individuals like Eunice Wilson and others shared experiences of being forced into stereotypical roles on stage.
• Historical Context: Reflecting on bigotry and the normalcy of blackface performances in the early 20th century.
• Impact on Performers: Some performers like "Pigmeat" Markham felt a loss of comedic edge when forced to abandon blackface.

Black Vaudeville and Toba Circuit

• Limited Opportunities: In mainstream Vaudeville, black acts were limited; however, the Toba circuit provided opportunities.
• Toba Circuit: Known as "tough on black asses," with poor conditions but a place for black performers to hone their craft.
• Notable Performers: Mom's Maybly and others developed long-lasting routines.

Challenges in Performance

• Racial Barriers: Black performers often faced racism, segregation, and lower pay compared to their white counterparts.
• Resistance to Stereotyping: Some, like the Nicholas Brothers, refused to conform to stereotypes and maintained dignity.

Legacy of Key Performers

• Bert Williams: Paved the way for African-American entertainers by becoming the first black star on Broadway, admired by all races.
  • Known for subtlety and humanity in his performances, contrasting with prevalent stereotypes.
  • His work and premature death highlighted the intense pressures faced by black performers.

Conclusion

• Impact and Legacy: The lecture highlights the struggles and triumphs of African-American performers in early American entertainment.
• Reflection on Progress: Performers like UI Blake and others showed pride and resilience, refusing to be boxed into societal stereotypes, leaving a lasting legacy in entertainment history.