In part because of its development, initially, as a consequence of enslavement, African American theater is both entertaining and potentially volatile. We will look at some of the most important African American plays from the late 1700’s through to the present, and explore the problems, contestations and the nature of race, class, and gender as exemplified in these dramatic texts. From Ira Aldridge’s The Black Doctor in 1847, through to August Wilson’s Radio Golf (2007), we will investigate the historical emergence and institutionalization of race thinking and practice on the American stage. As we consider this span of performance literature, we will analyze debates about race and social justice, investigate the collaborative nature of theater and develop oratory skills in provocative discussions. Note: This course fulfills the Race & Diversity (GD) requirement for students under GenEd and Studies in Race (RS) for students under Core.