Tag: #livetheater

Elevating Black Theatre: Embracing Readings and Recognizing Talent

Black theatre, within the rich tapestry of performing arts, serves as a poignant testament to the depth of culture, history, and creativity within the black community. From the groundbreaking narratives of August Wilson to the contemporary innovations of playwrights like Tarell Alvin McCraney, black theatre resonates with audiences and amplifies essential stories. Yet, behind each captivating stage production lies an often-overlooked process: the crucial readings and rehearsals that refine and shape the final performance.

Before a play graces the spotlight, it embarks on a developmental journey critical for black theatre’s authenticity and impact. Readings, workshops, and rehearsals provide a platform for playwrights, directors, and actors to delve into themes, characters, and dialogue with depth and nuance. Particularly for black theatre, these early stages hold immense significance, allowing artists to explore complex issues of identity, race, and social justice authentically.

The necessity for black theatre readings arises from a commitment to ensuring accurate and respectful representation of black, brown, and LGBTQ communities. Through collaborative table reads and workshops, artists refine scripts, tackle challenging themes, and celebrate the diverse perspectives within the black diaspora. These readings serve as incubators for creativity and dialogue, empowering artists to elevate their craft and contribute meaningfully to the artistic landscape.

Moreover, black theatre readings offer a vital platform for emerging playwrights and performers to showcase their talents and amplify their voices. In an industry where opportunities for minority artists can be scarce, these readings provide essential connections with mentors, collaborators, and audiences. By championing diversity and inclusivity throughout the creative process, black theatre readings enrich the artistic community and foster greater representation and equity.

In addition to honoring the significance of readings, it’s essential to celebrate the contributions of black, brown, and LGBTQ writers and performers in theatre. Often marginalized or overlooked, these trailblazing artists have shaped and enriched black theatre with their extraordinary talents. From luminaries like Lorraine Hansberry to Sidney Poitier, their voices deserve recognition and celebration.

Our commitment to black theatre extends beyond homage to classic works; it encompasses nurturing new talent and amplifying underrepresented voices. By providing opportunities for Philadelphia theatre makers to direct and narrate readings of Broadway classics, we broaden the scope of inclusivity and creativity within the industry. These readings not only provide a platform for aspiring actors but also inspire audiences to witness the next generation of theatre talent.

In conclusion, black theatre readings are not merely a precursor to the final performance; they are an integral part of the creative journey, fostering collaboration, dialogue, and discovery. By embracing readings and honoring diverse talent, we ensure the continued vibrancy and relevance of black theatre in the performing arts landscape. Let us raise our voices, celebrate achievements, and embrace the transformative power of black theatre as we eagerly anticipate the next chapter of its evolution.

October awareness

October was a month to remember as Run Boy Run Productions of CultureTrust Greater Philadelphia had projects running in not one but two parts of Pennsylvania but also how both projects stand tall to be about social issues within communities of today and that is domestic violence and abuse.

Starting off with Boomerang as it previewed works from the performance piece at the Koresh Dance Showcase. With a story that has never been told, Boomerang is one to bring focus to how children are affected by abuse of in a family specifically African American male as it can often be something that molds them in belief that these actions are how you are suppose to be or want to treat someone even into adulthood. Truth is this story is not limiting and is real in many communities and whit every piece as they unfold many will watch and see someone in this maybe even themselves and understand the need of raising a family under a positive roof can be the true focus for a positive youth.

Our other play Mississippi Smiles has been making a move since its birth from paper a year ago. With a focus on domestic violence and abuse as it effects women that transition from heterosexual to the lgbtq community it brings a big focus as to how it’s often about what baggage we choose to keep in our lives then recognizing how to heal first.

With an all star cast and director to match, Mississippi Smiles was a sold out show and had many wanting more. The understanding of domestic violence and abuse awareness is to see that it’s effects can be felt in many ways, shapes and forms and for us we are glad to bring stories to life that generate not just thought but conversation.

Boomerang Beginnings


This weekend was a new beginning that I must say I was overjoyed with. A few weeks ago in my emails I sent an opportunity to work on a creation in one of the best places I have seen artistry FringeArts on Delaware Ave. now as a back story goes I didn't hesitate to fill out the application and a few weeks later we got an email back congratulating us for being apart of Camp Fringe.
Now how does Boomerang fit into this well that's the easy part. In 2015 I knew I wanted to perform at this venue but I also knew the works that we would have to bring g would have to truly be different and outside the box of any creation we have ever and would ever do. I told Hendi about the idea and story of two kids stories and how they both came from abusive up bringing but the real test would be how they turn out as adults. Hendi liked the idea and the day I talked to him about it I finished the first piece while riding home on the train that night.

So here we are two years later and the opportunity and moment came were we are about to present our project. I stood up in front of the crowd looked out and immediately when I look at them I smile. To me crowns on the symbolism of my happiness because not all honesty I still can't believe that you to watch something that I'm doing. So I address them tell them who I am what I represent in our story and then we let it begin. And from the door watching this was beautiful seeing the toxic movement of how love can be damaging.

Each piece came to life allowed the performers to Paul at parts of themselves that they didn't even know exist showing the pain that each child went through as well as how from such pain they can be light at the end. For us this ending with a new beginning and also wake up call that there was so much more we had to do as ours we are now about to go into the studio and work on the rest of the show and I must say we are all looking forward to see what boomerangs bring.

Saturday Fire

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Saturday was a day of fire as cast members showed that they can bring it for rehearsal. It was a little different as I took a step back and formally introduced them to Britney who is the co director on the set. Although the setup was different because it being in a house instead of an actual hall it did prove to be both helpful as the separation of space gave members two coaches to work with on full scenes as well and the other the development of character. I must say it has been a case of trial and error but they have shown that they are willing to take on the challenge and show the world what talents they have and for me it’s worth the site in growth and obstacle as we prove talent stands strong in everyone.