African American Theatre in New York City

Aldridge made his acting debut at the african grove theatre, which was the only theatre that black actors were allowed to perform. Theatre ran into trouble because not a week would pass without police or local recis residents coming by just to jam em up and hastle them. At least one source claims the theatre mysteriously burned to the ground in 18 26. And this is where aldridge said, you know, i wonder if people are going to take me seriously as an act in this country. He decided his only path forward as a serious, determined and inspiring actor of color was to emigrate. That's why he took a job on a ship headed to england.