The sensitive topic of colorism will be the focus of the one-act play “One” set to premiere at the 2nd Annual CENTERSTAGE: A Theater Workshop sponsored by the Africana Repertory Theatre of IUPUI (ARTI) on Saturday, April 22, 2023, at the Herron School of Art & Design, 735 West New York Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202. The play will begin at 1pm.
Lanetta Kennedy, CENTERSTAGE featured playwright, actor, and director, strives to touch the heart of many through her work and latest play, “One,” which focuses on colorism in the Black community. “Unity isn’t defined by a spectrum of melanin but how we stand together as One.”
“CENTERSTAGE: A Theater Workshop” is designed to attract a broad range of theater enthusiasts, from the novice to those pursuing careers onstage or behind the scenes.
The following are workshop sessions offered:
- “THE SHOW” – FOR PLAYWRIGHTS. Attendees will be instructed to create or select an original idea, develop it into a story called the plot, then create the characters, structure and spectacle (visual aspects) needed to tell and show to the audience.
- “THE ACTION” – FOR ACTORS AND DIRECTORS. Movement from beginning to end of the play/story is driven by the skilled actor’s body, voice and imagination, led and instructed by the director’s vision and skill.
- “THE LOOK” – FOR TECHNICAL AND ARTISTIC DIRECTORS. The aesthetic, sound, and visual design are factors that the audience member takes in through the senses of hearing, sight, feeling: set, costumes, lights, sound, properties, make-up, hair design.
- “THE BUSINESS” – FOR PRODUCERS. All of the factors that make it possible for a play to be presented to the public: Budget, fundraising, audience development, space, ticket sales, box office, house management, royalties, contracts, auditions, director, actors, etc. These responsibilities fall within the purview of the producer.
Sessions will run concurrently and will be repeated, allowing each participant to attend two of the topic areas addressed.
CENTERSTAGE workshops will be led by a panel of experienced theater professionals, educators and practitioners who bring a wealth of diverse knowledge and skills. More information about the workshop presenters will be announced soon! A special keynote will be presented by Dr. Jackie Taylor, Founder and CEO of the 40-year-old Black Ensemble Theater of Chicago.
The event is FREE to the public, but pre-registration is required. CENTERSTAGE will be from 8am-3pm. For more information, go to onyxfest.com. Register at www.eventbrite.com/e/the-2nd-annual-centerstage-tickets-551796156157.