The Harlem Renaissance was an important time for black culture. During this time period there were many breakthroughs for literature, art, and music. Black musical theater become a popular thing during the Renaissance. Through musical theater the writer is able to express a story through music, dance as well as acting. The story line usually includes, humor, love, comedy, tragedy etc. The elements of a musical theater piece are a theme, plot, characters, song list, language and rhythm.
The first black people to make and produce a black Broadway show was Will Marron Cook and Bob Cole . Their show was presented on Broadway in 1898.