The Harlem Renaissance took place during the mid 1920s when African Americans expressed themselves creatively (“The Rise and Fall”). It all started in Harlem, New York after the musical, “Shuffle Along” hit broadway in 1921 (“That Harlem Hotcha!” 84). Producers were very questionable about producing this play since it had a large majority of African Americans featured in it. It had been twelve years since the last play featuring this race was successful on broadway, so this was a big risk. Since this play did so well, it gave other African Americans hope pursuing their dreams. it provided many new directions for them as they expressed themselves through literature, music, and art (“Shuffle Along and the Lost”).
“The Father of the Harlem Renaissance”, …show more content…
He was the first black playwright to have a real play done on Broadway (Mclntyre). While growing up, Willis was encouraged by his father to pursue his interest in books and writing. Willis’s dad would read to him every night before bed, which helped pursue his dreams by getting him into reading. As a child, many people disagreed with how much time Willis spent reading, but he didn’t care. He would just brush off what everyone said and continued reading. During high school he would write poems and stories for his english class, and his teacher even encouraged Willis to study the techniques of drama. He did end up studying the techniques and became a very significant playwright during the 1920s and 1930s. He always had a passion for drama and writing, and he was always looking for ways to influence others (Mclntyre). In 1922 Willis stated, “Negro drama has been, next to my wife and children, the very hope of my life. I shall do all within my power to advance it” (“Willis Richardson”). By putting so much effort into his works and showing his love for African Americans drama, Willis forged the way for many other African Americans who followed after