We were given the opportunity to partner with Blue Bistro Creative for their Women’s History Month edition of The Blue Series. The women’s edition was comprised of six one-act original stage plays that celebrated the power, passion, and perseverance of African American women. The production took place at The Windmill Arts Center in East Point, Georgia.
New and seasoned playwrights, directors, actors, and writers united on stage to showcase unique and compelling forms of storytelling. “One Two Many,” “Denial About Donna,” “The Pink Tackle Box,” “Finish The Dream,” “Memory/ Life,” and “Abstract Unveiled: Tales of a Young Black Female” were the featured plays. “One Two Many” and “Memory/Life” both touched on themes regarding assault and trauma. “The Pink Tackle Box,” “Finish The Dream,” and “Abstract Unveiled: Tales of a Young Black Female were autobiographical pieces that took us on a journey to learn more about the writer’s life experiences. “Denial about Donna” touched on sexual identity and acceptance.
It was incredible to sit in the audience and observe how beautiful the production came together. So many individuals put in a lot of hard work, time, and dedication to make sure the event was a success. The Windmill Arts Center was small and intimate which allowed attendees to make a stronger connection with the characters and their stories. Some of the plays even included interaction from the audience which gave the show a nice touch.
Amina S. McIntyre is the playwright behind Memory/Life which was directed by Mia Kristen Smith. The story explored the process of healing after surviving a violent assault. One Two Many was directed and written by Naz Pankey. A story highlighting victims of assault who share their testimonies of survival after years of silence. Juva Alexander made her playwright debut with The Pink Tackle Box which was directed by Tammy Waller. The play is based on Juva’s autobiographical book: From The Pole to The Pulpit.
Kristen Black also made her playwright debut with Denial About Donna which was directed by Keturah Walker. The play focuses on a young woman who has been keeping a secret from her family. It’s a story about identity and acceptance. Finish the Dream was written by Vanessa Henderson and directed by Samiah Alexander. A story about chasing a dream that was once deferred. Abstract Unveiled: Tales of a Young Black Female was written by Sassett West. Sassett who goes by Abstract C.I.M switched it up by adding some spoken word and dance elements to her segment. The project was her theatrical debut.
The Blue Series was created by Anthony R. Page (CEO and Artistic Director of Blue Bistro Creative), a regional multi-media company based in Atlanta, Georgia. As a producer of theater, film, and television, Anthony made a commitment to create meaningful work for the community. The Blue Series is one of the ways that he is staying true to that promise.
Overall, we thought the production was amazing! The writers, directors, and actors did a phenomenal job. We are looking forward to seeing what’s next from The Blue Series.
Check out footage and pics from the event below!
