Black Entertainment History with Smokey Stevens

In This Episode In this episode, we talk with Ronald “Smokey” Stevens, an award-winning performer, director, choreographer, producer, and founder of Capital City Readers Theatre. A veteran of Broadway productions including Bubbling Brown Sugar, Dreamgirls, and his own Rollin’ on the T.O.B.A., Stevens has dedicated much of his career to preserving and celebrating Black theatrical history. His book, The First 60 Years: The History of Afro American Musical Theater & Entertainment, 1865–1930, chronicles the groundbreaking contributions of Black performers, producers, entrepreneurs, and theater owners following emancipation. From the birth of Black vaudeville and the Blues to the rise of Black theatrical entrepreneurship, Stevens shines a light on the artists who forged a path for American entertainment despite the racism and barriers of their time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices