Three Plays for the Negro Theater by Ridgely Torrence was the first production on Broadway to feature an all black cast. Despite early critical acclaim the show closed within a month and received little attention thereafter. Curtis explores both the progress of race relations that led to this production and the reasons for its quick demise.

Curtis has made a major contribution to our understanding of theater history.... The resulting text is an excellent example of how history, theater, and cultural studies can be brought together to offer a fascinating story of people whose contribution is now being given the credit it deserves. - Library Journal ""This is a stylishly written, popularly accessible, and deeply thoughtful study of an important episode in the cultural history of the United States."" - David Roediger ""An invaluable cultural resource to those curious about the rise of blacks on the Broadway stage."" - Black Issues Book Review ""This is an important study, not only of blacks in U.S. drama, but of the complex cross-cultural collaborations and racial politics behind one of the most important theater events of the early 20th century: the April 5, 1917, Broadway opening of three one-act plays by the American playwright Ridgely Torrence, with an all-black cast.... Highly recommended."" - Choice