Q: We continue to see a recycling of events in our society related to race tension and inequality. What, if any role, do you feel art can play to invoke positive change?

A: Art in general brings awareness and perspective to the issues. Art is all about making something relatable so if we can use art to spread the message. I also think art has a place in manipulating emotions so in this case, art can be used as a weapon to fight injustice and to build a following.

Q: Why is it important for this story to be told today?

A: Look at the world we're in. With the events of George Floyd, Sandra Bland, Breonna Taylor, etc. There are TOO many instances that relate to the events touched on in the play. This was in the early 90’s and these STILL HAPPEN. It’s infuriating to see the horrifying events in the news and how we as people have not learned. Today the story needs to be told.

Q: Describe one of the characters you play, and the heart of that particular speech.

A: One of the characters I represent is Reginald Denny. He is a victim of violence and I feel the heart of his story is so positive. He has a sort of optimism about the future and even though he was hospitalized and beaten almost to death, he does not blame the attackers and he empathizes with them and I think that is not only very strong and brave but it is also very transparent. He knows of the disparity in the system and society, knows he’s in one side of it, and knows it’s a wrong, uneven playing field. His view of the future is so optimistic and I think that’s something we can all take from his story.

Q: What do you hope the audience takes away from this experience?

A: I want the audience to be conflicted. I want the audience to be uncomfortable with their privileges, if they have them, and be aware and open their eyes. Revel in that because until you wake up and realize where you stand, you will NEVER be an advocate for change. We need to take off our rose colored glasses and know before things can get better, we need to attack the reasons and examples for why things are terrible now.