THEATRE: Stagecrafters

Fisk University’s Acting Ensemble

The Fisk University Stagecrafters was organized in April of 1926, with English 142 (a class in Pageantry) as a nucleus. The director was Miss L. E. Cashin, Professor in Comparative Literature. Its purpose was the “fastening of art for art’s sake, the discovery and development of new talent, and the establishment of a little theatre on the Fisk campus.” The initial performance was Sophocles’ Antigone, which was presented in May, 1926.

From this rather auspicious beginning 97 years ago, Stagecrafters has evolved into the main University theatre group. They have occupied the Little Theatre since 1935. Today, the group provides opportunities for intensive study of plays and their production. Membership is open to all students, who may participate as actors, designers, lighting technicians, make-up artists, or in the construction of scenery or costumes. Major productions and student directed laboratory performances are held each year.