The Story of D.C.’s Black Broadway on U
This interactive discussion will use film clips and music to explore the rich Black history and heritage of D.C.’s U Street Corridor when it was known as “Black Broadway.” Developed after the outbreak of the Civil War, U Street began to attract notable Black artists and intellectuals at the dawn of the 20th century. At that time the neighborhood had become a cultural mecca for D.C.’s African-American community, well before the Harlem Renaissance.
On any given night, native Washingtonians, international stars, and Black entertainment icons like Duke Ellington, Jelly Roll Morton, Pearl Bailey, Cab Calloway, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Louis Armstrong, and Billie Holiday would gather to perform. Come discover the enduring Black cultural legacy of this artistically rich neighborhood. Questions encouraged!
This class is part of an education series leading up to the Funk Parade on Saturday, May 7th. Visit funkparade.com to learn more.
Funk Parade is a one-of-a-kind parade, street fair, and music festival celebrating U Street, D.C., and the spirit of funk.
Location
Ben's Chili Bowl
1213 U St. NW
Washington,
DC
20009
Neighborhood: U Street
Past event