Write your own rules when it comes to your hair::

Toccara and Lance Gross host National ReLaunch Event  

African Pride and Introduce My Pride | My Way Campaign

Maybe you feel like me and can admit that your hair speaks volumes about where you are in your life. Honey, my hair has been long, short, and everywhere in between. We may be getting in touch with our natural side or sewing it, gluing it, braiding it, or relaxing it. What we should all strive for is healthy hair! 

African Pride is keeping this in mind with their national re-launch of their Olive Oil Infused Hair Care product line. "Our company recognizes that today's women are not monotonous when it comes to their hair styles and texture choices. Each individual choice should be equally celebrated with the final goal being healthy tresses and follicle protection, which is the continuous goal of our product lines," states Charlene Bastien (Strength of Nature Global, LLC  National Sales and Marketing Director). 

Lance Gross and Toccara Jones hosted the kick off of the "My Pride|My Way" campaign March 16th at the King Plow Arts Center. 

                                                                                       

Celebrities, key influencers and beauty industry elite were in attendance. The Master of Ceremonies was Ebony Steele (Radio Personality/Rickey Smiley Morning Show) with special performances by spoken word artist Mshairi Uwezo and So So Def Recording Artist Dondria. The event featured hair demonstrations and consultations by style experts, makeovers, conversations in hair and more.  

     

Keshia Knight Pulliam, Lance Gross, Toccara Jones, Charlene Bastien

Dondria (So So Def Recording Artist)

DJ Scream

Keshia Knight Pulliam (Tyler Perry)

Ebony Steele (Rickey Smiley Morning Show)

Special Thanks To:: 

The Garner Circle

Heather B. (Link To The City Photographer)

*Please reference all photos as courtesy of Link To The City & Heather B.* 

Porgy & Bess In High-Definition:: Presenting Michael Redding

I had the opportunity to attend the final dress rehearsal of Porgy & Bess, and was blown away! This was actually my first Atlanta Opera experience, and I was a little weary of sitting through 3 hours of constant singing. Surprisingly, I was totally engaged and on the edge of my seat the entire time. This performance was truly a night to remember! Afterwards, I headed back stage to catch up with the cast. 


Ladies and Gentlemen I present to you..... Michael Redding (Porgy):


Sareena Beasley (SB): When did you fall in love with theatre?
MR: I think I fell in love with the theatre in high school, during my musical theatre days- though my mother and father would beg to differ, and say that I've always been in love with the stage. Any chance I got I was performing, and usually when there wasn't even a 'stage' around!


SB: How do you maintain your voice and deliver such passion from night to night?
MR: The voice is a tricky thing, but it is directly connected to the mind. So as long as I have this brain under control, and not freaking out from nerves, usually the voice follows right along. What that means for me in particular is maintaining a healthy set of chords and not getting to wrapped up in 'allergies' and 'illnesses' and other things that seem to affect us delicate singers. As far as the passion goes, I tend to throw myself into a performance, so I do have to balance my emotional output with my stamina and capabilities! I stay open, basically. I keep my body open, my throat open, and my mind as free as possible.


SB: Who has inspired you or been most influential in your career?
MR:  A lot of things and people have inspired and influenced me over the years. The more I allow things to simply be as they are and keep these eyes and my soul open, the more I learn from everything. Erykah Badu, Merryl Streep, and countless others, have and continue to truly inspire me. Anything or anyone that is simply being all of who they are without reservation, is an inspiration to me! 


SB: Best moment in 2011?
MR:  It is safe to say that I am currently in the best moment of 2011!


SB: Did you ever imagine you would be where you are today?
MR:  I think we all have BIG dreams as little ones growing up, and then somehow they seem to just diminish over time! But then, if you're fortunate enough to catch that boat when your second opportunity flows by, life changes! That's what happened to me. I stopped dreaming because I became satisfied, and then God said, "oh no little one... we've got things to do down there!" And thus, here we go. 


SB: How do you want to be remembered?
MR:  Remembered- am I dead??? (laughing). Let me say this: when people leave my performances or simply leave my presence, I'm not concerned if they like or dislike me, or if they thought I did a great job... I'm only concerned that they felt where I was coming from! "That soul who reached other souls!" That's how I'd like to be remembered. 


SB: Are there any similarities between you and Porgy- the character you portray?
MR: There are many, many similarities between Porgy and myself, though I didn't realize it until I dove into the character over a year ago. Porgy's a quiet man, of which I am not, but his quietness stems from meditation, of which I do daily! He's rooted in a faith that he doesn't always understand, but that shakes him no less, and I can sympathize with him greatly in that respect. The main thing I identify with Porgy, is that he isn't afraid to take a risk! He grabs the first opportunity he has to get Bess, and without regard to knowing the outcome, he throws himself into the passions of a summer love affair! (yeah... I definitely know that side of Porgy). 


SB:  Final thoughts or advice for upcoming artists....

MR: My lovely fellow artists... please, please always be you! And express whoever that is to the fullest of your potential! We are slowly pulling ourselves out of a culture that prides itself on non-individuality and plain-Janes! We have been encouraged to be normal and fit in, when that's clearly not everyone, if anyone's calling! I admit it is difficult at times to walk that 'self' line, but He made us all different, so why should we all walk the same?

About Porgy & Bess

Set in Charleston, Porgy and Bess depicts the struggling occupants of Catfish Row as they live a life of hard work and tough times, yearning for a better life and great love.  You'll be drawn in by Porgy, Bess, Crown, Sportin’ Life and Serena, the amazing characters in this quintessential American opera. Composed by the forever-young George Gershwin, Porgy and Bess features opera’s most famous lullaby, Summertime. 

This new Atlanta Opera production will use high-definition projection technology combined with three-dimensional scenery to create a vibrant and exciting performance 

experience. Porgy and Bess also features the company debut of Boston Pops conductor Keith 

Lockhart conducting The Atlanta Opera Orchestra and Chorus and a dazzling cast of young opera stars.

Performances are March 4 and 6, 2011 at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre.

Visit www.atlantaopera.org for additional information.

This article should not be copied or transcribed in any way without the written consent of the writer (Sareena Beasley of T-3Concepts)

Actor's Express:: Engaging, Educating, Entertaining

 ACTOR’S EXPRESS CELEBRATES CARNIVALE AT ITS ANNUAL FUNDRAISER

The annual fundraising gala for Actor’s Express took the form of Carnivale on Friday, February 18, 2011 at King Plow Arts Center. Attendees were transported to Rio de Janiero as they were greeted by dynamic street performers, live music, and interactive gaming booths. A decadent VIP area raised the temperature to sultry South American heights with burlesque performances by Minette Magnifique. The evening concluded with a silent auction to support Actor’s Express.

Actor’s Express is a twenty-three year-old theatre located in the West Midtown district of Atlanta that offers original voices and new perspectives that reflect Atlanta’s diverse and evolving community. At the center of AE’s mission is a commitment to new work and emerging artists. 

This commitment is realized through an active new play development program and an internship program that provides some of the most rigorous post-undergraduate theatre training in the state. 

AE is committed to setting and adhering to the highest possible artistic standards, as well as engaging, educating and entertaining the community its serves.  

"Feel Love, Show Love, Honor Love"

Leslie Harris-Founder WOTM

Stepping into the Mason Murer Fine Arts Museum in Atlanta, Georgia on February 12th automatically pulled me into a different world. A world in which Women are celebrated for their differences, embraced for their hard work, and motivated to push forward.
This was a night to "Feel Love, Show Love, Honor Love."

The Foundation:: Leslie Harris, Founder of Women On The Move, created an organization that represents a movement targeted toward changing the lives of others and empowering women nationwide. WOTM contributes grants to assist less fortunate women.  


Women On The Move in Atlanta:: Honorees included Valerie Jackson (former first lady of Atlanta), elder Bernice King, Priya Scroggins (noted entrepreneur), Rashan Ali (radio and tv personality), Mali Hunter (co-owner Tree Sounds Recording Studios/Artist), Karyn Greer (Emmy Award winner11 Alive anchor and host for the evening), Angi Bones (Assistant Director of Tyler Perry Studios and Film Producer),
Noni Nicholas (BET Network Creative Executive) and many more.


Noted Attendees::
Terri Vaughn, who is currently working on Tyler Perry's "Meet The Browns" applauds all women on the move, because they don't see any limitations.

"I celebrate women everyday in my field of fashion design. This is a great opportunity to celebrate amazing women that do extraordinary things from day to day." Mychael Knight


 


And the movement continues....Are You A Woman On The Move?          

  

Quick Fix with Keren Charles:: Swapnista, FashionEnvy, Operation Prom ATL

Sareena Beasley (SB): What is Swapnista?

Keren Charles (KC): I started Swapnista to encourage women to swap, not shop, in order to update their wardrobes without spending too much money. From that, the Swapnista events emerged as a chic alternative to shopping for a "new-to-you" wardrobe. Specifically, with Fashion Envy Dress Boutique, we offer once-loved fashion from attendees & donations from retailers & designers. We also allow you access to a wide array of accessories in our vendor suite, a pampering lounge, and specific items are donated to a local nonprofit. 

SB: Which nonprofit are you working with?

KC: Operation PROM Atlanta. We provide free prom dresses to high school seniors that are in need. Phaedra Parks, Real Housewives of Atlanta, is among some of the celebrities that have donated to this worthy cause. We will be accepting donations until March 19, which is the big prom give-a-way. Students can obtain applications from their high school counselors (North Fulton County and Atlanta Public Schools) to be a potential recipient. They will receive complimentary hair, makeup, styling consultations and of course a PROM dress.

 As a personal stylist I always work with women to help them achieve a certain look, and I truly believe that young women need this encouragement as well. 

SB: When did you develop an eye for fashion?

KC: When I was a little girl. I have always enjoyed dressing up. Growing up in a single family household, we didn’t have a lot of money, so I developed a love and eye for my own style, even when shopping at thrift stores. My style can’t be defined in a box, but it is always chic and classic. 

SB: What is one of your most memorable styling projects?

KC: I have been so blessed to have worked with women such as Ann Huff, who I styled for President Obama’s inauguration, and so many others. Overall, I enjoy working with the everyday woman, and creating their extraordinary looks.

SB: How can we get that quick fix?

KC: Visit www.fashiontoenvy.com 

Haute Game Plan for Super Bowl XLV:: Super Bowl Gospel Celebration- 2.4.11

Super Bowl XLV is headed to Texas where "everything is bigger and better" and the Super Bowl Gospel Celebration must be added to your game plan!  Get ready for a star-studded evening as gospel icons Marvin Sapp, Israel Houghton & New Breed, Mary Mary, Donnie McClurkin, “Players Choice” James Fortune & FIYA, the NFL Players choir,  the Voices of Destiny church choir and “The Best Church Choir in America” – Verizon’s How Sweet the Sound winning choir, grace the stage in addition to a few added surprises.

Gospel's music sweetheart CeCe Winans is hosting the NFL sanctioned event on Friday, February 4, 2011 at 7:30pm at the Music Hall in Fair Park. This year, the North Texas charitable partner is Pat and Emmitt Smith Charities, who are devoted to providing unique opportunities and educational experiences for underserved children.

This is the place to experience great music, support a worthy cause, and refresh your inspiration for 2011 and beyond. Visit www.superbowlgospel.com for more information and to purchase tickets.

The Super Bowl Gospel Celebration is sponsored by Verizon Wireless, the official wireless service of the NFL; and American Family Insurance, the nation's third-largest mutual property/casualty insurance company.

Haute Off The Red Carpet with Kenny Leon

     

Q&A with Kenny Leon....

This Is His Script

Sareena Beasley (SB): What is something most people don’t know about you?

Kenny Leon (KL): According to Phylicia Rashad’s research, my name means……Kenneth=handsome, Leroy= king, Leon=lion.

SB: Behind every success story there has been a struggle or obstacle to overcome.   What is your story?

KL: I was a country boy born in Tallahassee, Florida. I graduated from Clark Atlanta University, a historical black college in Atlanta, with a degree in political science. For me, I had to get out of my neighborhood, then I had to get out of the state, and then I had to forget about what people were telling me I should do. I found my way! My mother thought I was going to be a minister or teacher- which I am doing on the American stage and television. Everyone has a different story, but in order to move forward you just have to keep putting one foot in front of the other to find your passion, and to overcome those obstacles. I think people should spend their life trying to find their passion, and what it is that they would love to wake up everyday and do, and then find a way to get paid for it.

SB: When did you realize this is what you were destined to do?

KL: I was in law school and I had to come home and wait a year before I could return. During that year I started teaching theatre in the prison and school system, and I was also doing plays at night. Following that year, when it was time for me to go back to law school, the man that hired me to do all of the theatre work asked, “what are you going to do now?” I realized that I had found it, and I didn’t want to return to law school. I wanted to continue with theatre!  

SB: Tell me about your mentor(s) and how they helped to position you to reach the success you have to date?

KL: One is the great August Wilson, whom I spent a great amount of time with before he died. I directed two Broadway shows with him, which was incredible! He helped me to understand why it’s so challenging for an African American artist to make it in the industry. Then I had Joan Lewis who taught theatre at Clark Atlanta University. Lastly, I admire people like my grandmother, who worked hard all day in the field, and others that were apart of the Civil Rights Movement. It made me realize that I am the result of these generations of prayers. 

When I look at the people I am working with (Samuel L. Jackson, Will Smith, P. Diddy, and so many others), they all have one thing in common- no one will ever out work them. You have to give it all you got, and push yourself to the next level before you can succeed. 

SB: What is one of your proudest moments?

KL: Actually it was last year when Denzel Washington was on the stage accepting his Tony Awards. I was so proud of him, and the work he had done. The first thing he said was, “if you ever get an opportunity, you have to work with Kenny Leon.”  That was amazing!

SB: Fill in the blank: The last time I laughed so hard was when......

KL: I think that God gives us two great releases. The ability to laugh and cry. Laughter is good. It’s like a security blanket that protects us.  It keeps you human, and if you can’t laugh then I don’t want to be around you.  If you attend one of my shows and you don’t laugh, then it’s not one of my shows. Sometimes I laugh more at drama then comedy. In drama, the comedy is inherent in the writing, versus comedy when they are trying to make it funny. I enjoy comedy that comes from natural situations- laughing at life, and I laugh everyday.

SB: Do you maintain any constant themes within your productions?

KL: Authenticity, Honesty and Raw. I want everyone to be able to find themselves in my work.

SB: What is the biggest difference in being the artistic director for the Alliance Theatre Company and True Colors Theatre Company?

KL: There is a difference between a large institution and a small institution. The difference between a $12 million budget (Alliance Theatre) and a $2 million budget (True Colors Theatre). At the large institution there is more politics, people, complexities, and more issues when you try to merge various cultures.  When I was at the Alliance, a historically white institution, my goal was in trying to diversify it with African Americans. Whereas now, the core audience for True Colors is African American, and I am trying to diversify it with other cultures. I actually think it’s easier to diversify other cultures around African American culture. I’m still doing the same thing, just trying to do it a different way. I’m all about using theatre as a tool to unite all audiences. At True Colors Theatre, the core of our mission is to preserve African American classics and unite Anglo-Saxon cultures around it.

SB: Where do you see True Colors Theatre in the next 5 years?

KL: I want True Colors to be a home for African American artists. As we get older there are so many wonderful artists out there, and I want them to know that they will always have a home at True Colors Theatre. We must continue to tell our story to our communities.  I want them to have a place to come and continue to do their work. I want to ensure that this company will live long after me. So I welcome the next young African American artist to come in and continue the movement.     

SB: What are some of the challenges in reaching this goal?

KL: The challenge is always financial. In the African American community we have to make sure that we are supporting this institution (True Colors Theatre). When you build sets, the wood and nails cost money. When you fly artists in to perform it cost money. So you want the entire community to support and embrace the theatre in ways where they are not always looking for a hook up.  As long as we have the support of the community it will live. We have to realize that as time goes on, we have to be careful about who is telling our stories. We can sustain our culture through our stories. More than half of our audience is female. We are constantly trying to get our men into the theatre to hear these stories, so they can grow in terms of relationships and life. Another major challenge is reaching out to young people. We want to let them know that there are careers in the arts. They have to learn the art of storytelling, and we want to prepare them for that.

SB: Can you give me the details surrounding your upcoming projects?

KL: I am directing The Mountaintop, premiering this spring. It was written by Katori Hall, who won the Olivier Award in London last year. I was able to convince Samuel L. Jackson and Halle Berry into doing this two character play. This will be Halle’s first stage production, so I am looking forward to that. It’s based on an idea of what happen the night before Martin Luther King Jr., was assassinated. It includes elements of past, present and future worlds combined. People will not want to miss this up close opportunity with the cast. Tickets go on sale in a few weeks. I am also working on a movie called Cotton- produced by the same people that did Pursuit of Happiness. The film is based on the real life story of Ronald Cotton, who was accused of raping two white women in North Carolina, but the real story is about the power of forgiveness.

SB: The science of being Broke (Broke-ology)... What is that?

KL: This is a play by Nathan Jackson that I directed. It’s about life and love in the African American community. It exposes those universal issues of family, love and fatherhood. Jasmine Guy and Afemo Omilami have two loving sons that find themselves strangely at odds. It’s a real play that answers the question – If you’re broke can you be happy? Furthermore, it goes a little deeper in regards to: What is happiness? What is being broke, rich or poor?

SB: What do you want viewers to walk away with from Broke-ology?

KL: I want them to leave and go home and hug their kids, husband or wife. Call their parents. In the end, it’s going to be a beautiful feeling about the connectiveness to family.

         

Don’t miss your opportunity to experience Broke-ology                      January 25-February 20, 2011 at the Southwest Arts Center in Atlanta, Georgia.                                 

Click here for additional information and to purchase tickets.

This article should not be copied or transcribed in any way without the written consent of the writer(Sareena Beasley of T-3Concepts)