This dissertation examines the American Negro Theatre (ANT) which for nine years (1940-49) provided a cultural experience for Harlem. The ANT, founded by Abram Hill and Frederick O'Neal, sought to provide a place for black theatricians to perfect their craft, a place to train aspiring artists, and a place to entertain the Harlem residents. The ANT made significant contributions to the white commercial theatre as well as to the Harlem community. According to Abram Hill, the school became the first black theatre organization to be incorporated by the New York Board of Education. The ANT also pioneered in the broadcasting media, as it became the first black company to present a regular radio series. Controversy and dissention among ANT members, problems arising from the commercial success of Anna Lucasta, high production costs, and "rumors of misappropriation of funds," led to the decline of the organization in the fifties. The ANT's achievements and successes became historic in the black little theatre movement. (Author/TS)