Photograph was edited for publication purposes. Founded by Nick and Edna Stewart in 1950, the Ebony Showcase Theater was the first African American owned theater in Los Angeles. Nick Stewart, who was most famous for his portrayal of “Lightnin’” in the TV show Amos and Andy, and voicing Brer Rabbit in Disney’s Song of the South, sought to build a place where African Americans could act in roles outside of the traditional stereotypes. The theater has been credited for starting the career of many young black actors, including Michelle Nichols, John Amos and Isabel Sanford. Located at 4718-26 W. Washington Blvd., the theater was demolished in 1998. Nick Stewart has leading role in "Caricature" at Ebony Showcase Playhouse. Photograph dated May 5, 1954.
Stewart, Nick,--1910-2000 Actors--United States Portrait photographs Los Angeles Evening Herald Express photographs Herald-Examiner Collection photographs
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