
As a writer and educator at SCAD University, I've always believed in the power of theater to inspire and transform. This August, thanks to a Presidential Fellowship, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in the vibrant theater scene of New York City for two weeks. This experience not only rekindled my own passion but also reinforced the importance of bringing live theater into the classroom. # The Classroom Renaissance
For the past three years at SCAD, I've had the privilege of teaching introductory playwriting and dramaturgy. It's been a joy to watch my students, many initially focused on TV and film, discover the magic of theater. They've learned about playwrights who've successfully transitioned to screen writing and found their own love for crafting stage productions. Some have even seen their short plays come to life in our performing arts department. But to keep this spark alive, I needed to reconnect with the source. Savannah, while beautiful, doesn't offer the same theatrical buffet as the Big Apple. Hence, my theatrical journey in New York. # A Theatrical Feast
In just two weeks, I devoured a smorgasbord of productions:
- Chisa Hutchinson's The Bleeding Class at 59E59, where I bumped into old friends and Reginald Barnes (actor) and Leah Finnie who was rehearsing Gil Tucker's Unentitled, also at 59E59.
- The Samuel French Off Off Broadway Short Play Festival, where I bumped into my wonderful director-friend Will Steinberg and Phillip Gregory Burke, who was one of the final six playwrights chosen.
- I saw N/A (which I LOVED!!) and SIX CHARACTERS (not so much, but my favorite director/actress/mentor, Seret Scott, was amongst the cast) at Lincoln Center.
- SUFFS and MJ the Musical on Broadway
- Stereophonic on Broadway
Each production offered unique insights and inspiration, reminding me why I fell in love with theater in the first place.
# Unexpected Encounters and Illuminating Discussions
New York, true to form, provided serendipitous meetings with colleagues working on exciting new projects. My good friend, Brittany Bellizare was in rehearsal for her Broadway debut in McNeal at Lincoln Center with Robert Downey, Jr..
Another highlight was attending a discussion at MCC with playwright/director Rob O'Hara (Insurrection: Holding History and Bootycandy), director, Zhailon Levingston (Cats: The Jellicle Ball), and actor/playwright Douglas Lyons (Chicken & Biscuits). They delved into the challenges of telling Black stories in today's theater world, a conversation that left me both inspired and joy-filled.
# Harlem9: Where Passion Meets Production
The cherry on top of this theatrical sundae was the 13th year of my OBIE award-winning short play festival, 48 Hours in...™ Harlem. Working alongside my fellow Harlem9 producers, we brought to life plays inspired by speeches from six iconic Black leaders. The festival was a resounding success, proving once again the power of diverse voices in theater. 48 Hours in Harlem: 6 Plays Inspired by Black Leaders’ Bold Speeches
# Bringing It All Back Home
As I return to my classroom at SCAD, I carry with me not just memories, but a renewed sense of purpose. Theater is more than words on a page or actors on a stage. It's a living, breathing entity that has the power to change perspectives, challenge norms, and inspire the next generation of storytellers.
To my students and fellow theater enthusiasts, I say this: Seek out live theater whenever you can. Let the energy of a live performance wash over you. Allow yourself to be moved, challenged, and inspired. For in those moments, sitting in a darkened theater, you might just discover your own voice waiting to be heard.
# Your Turn to Take the Stage
Remember, whether you're crafting a play, a screenplay, or your own life story, you are the wordsmith of your journey. Keep writing, keep watching, and most importantly, keep believing in the power of your voice.
Until next time, may your words flow and your stories soar.
Your Wordsmythe,
Sandra Daley
Comments