Imitation of Life is an accurate description of what the theater arts offer us – a staged reflection of life. For African Americans in theater that portrayal has gone through its own evolution. Early theater had its share of caricatures, stereotypes, and unrealistic fantasies, which did not honestly reflect our lives or the people we know. Over time, the black experience in theater has matured to offer many honest portrayals. The NAACP Theater Committee has had the pleasure of viewing many plays that have recreated with great realism the comedies, tragedies, disappointments, fears, and joys of the black experience. In short, this year we celebrate Art that is truly an Imitation of our Lives.