Date of Award

5-2024

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

M.F.A.

Degree Program

Film and Theatre

Department

Film and Theatre

Major Professor

David Hoover

Second Advisor

Henry Griffin

Third Advisor

Justin Maxwell

Abstract

This thesis explores the potential of Black Theatre as a catalyst for healing anti-Blackness within American theatre. Acknowledging the limitations of systemic change, this study advocates for incremental shifts within communities to combat ingrained racial biases through narrative change and theatrical exploration. Grounded in the theory of Black Theatre's energy force, Nommo, the study proposes the framework of Acknowledge, Dismantle, Re-Educate to address and eradicate anti-Blackness. Through directing the production of Blood at the Root, incorporating Black Theatre methodologies atop eurocentric foundations, this research documents the healing experienced by participants and audiences. Key findings reveal increased community engagement, support, awareness, and transformative experiences during the rehearsal process and performances. These findings underscore the potential of Black Theatre to combat anti-Blackness and emphasize the need for further research, education, and community-based initiatives to promote healing and awareness within the realm of theatre.

Rights

The University of New Orleans and its agents retain the non-exclusive license to archive and make accessible this dissertation or thesis in whole or in part in all forms of media, now or hereafter known. The author retains all other ownership rights to the copyright of the thesis or dissertation.

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