Dr. AnneReid

Dr. Anne Cooke Reid (1907–1997) was a pioneering professor of dramatic arts, stage director, and educator who transformed Black theater education in America. Born in Washington, D.C., into a lineage of educators, architects, and public servants—including Congressman Thomas E. Miller and Founding Father Thomas Heyward Jr.—she carried forward a legacy of excellence.

A 1928 graduate of Oberlin College and a charter member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority's Omega Chapter, she began her academic career at Spelman College, where she founded the first Black summer theater in the U.S. She later became the founding chair of Howard University’s theater department, mentoring a generation of Black actors and playwrights.

Dr. Reid earned a doctorate in fine arts from Yale in 1942 and led student productions internationally, including in Norway as a Fulbright Scholar. She was known as “Queen Anne” to her students for her commanding presence and deep commitment to their craft.

She later taught at UC Santa Cruz and the University of Maryland. Married to sociologist Dr. Ira De Augustine Reid until his death in 1961, she continued to teach and travel until her retirement in 1985.

Dr. Reid passed away in 1997 at age 89. Her work laid the foundation for generations in Black theater and performing arts education.