Black Girl is a play by American playwright J. E. Franklin. It was first produced on public television in 1969, followed by an off-Broadway production in 1971. It was later adapted by the playwright as a feature film that was released the following year.
Plot synopsis A family drama about a young woman who defies the low expectations thrust upon her and pursues her dream of becoming a dancer.
Television production Produced by WGBH, Boston in 1969. The teleplay featured Yvette Franklin, Joan Sandler, Barbara Griffith, and Judy Mills.
Original Off-Broadway production Directed by Shauneille Perry Produced by New Federal Theatre Producers: Bert Beck, Woodie King Jr. and Dick Williams Set Designer: Charles Mills Costume Designer: Femi Lighting Designer: Buddy Sound Designer: Gary Harris Production Stage Manager: Horacena J. Taylor Opened: June 17, 1971 at Theatre De Lys
Cast Arthur French - Earl Minnie Gentry - Mu'Dear Leslie Uggams - Netta Louise Stubbs - Mama Rosie Kishasha - Billie Jean Gloria Edwards - Norma Loretta Greene - Ruth Ann Stacey Durant - Sheryl Troy Warren - Little Earl Jimmy Hayeson - Mr. Herbert
Feature film
Directed by Ossie Davis Producer: Lee Savin Executive Producer: Robert Greenberg Distributed by Cinerama Releasing Corporation Opened: November 9, 1972 in New York City
Cast Brock Peters - Earl Claudia McNeil - Mu'Dear Leslie Uggams - Netta Louise Stubbs - Mama Rose Peggy Pettitt - Billie Jean Gloria Edwards - Norma Loretta Greene - Ruth Ann Ruby Dee - Netta's Mother Kent Martin - Herbert
Other productions
The New Federal Theatre produced a revival of the play during its 1995–96 season. This production was staged by Anderson Johnson.
On Thursday, May 21, 2009, Black Girl was presented by Legros Cultural Arts in New York City.
References
External links
Salisbury Post review of play