Written by | Ray Cornelius
After my media reception last night with Sheila E., I scurried over to the Horizon Theatre for the opening night performance of Trey Anthony‘s “da Kink in My Hair.” The award winning-Canadian born playwright is currently the 2016 National New Play Network Playwright-in-Residence at Horizon and was supposed to release a new show there this summer. However, she is still working on the project and decided to present an updated version of the show that brought her international success.
“da Kink in My Hair” is a musical sensation of love, hope, survival and redemption through eight women’s trials and celebrations. West Indian hairstylist, Novelette, delves into the tresses and stresses of her clients to reveal their hidden stories. The hurried women converge to have their hair done but walk away with more than a new do. Their souls are lifted and spirits are renewed. “Each one of these characters has some small part of me and my life embedded in their voice. They became my voice when I was too afraid to speak, to afraid to act, to afraid to question, to afraid to be loved or demand to be treated gently, kindly and with respect,” says Anthony.
The show is led by Broadway veteran Terry Burrell, who recently wowed audiences in her recent one woman show, “Ethel.” It also features Jennifer Alice Acker, Marliss Amiea, Jeanett Illidge, Onya Russell, Maiesha McQueen and Minka Wiltz, who both steal the show. It is directed by Atlanta theater favorite Thomas W. Jones II with musical direction by S. Reneé Clark.
Check out photos from last night’s after party which was held at the historic home of Horizon Theatre supporter Mtamanika Youngblood:
Trey Anthony with Mtamanika Youngblood
Terry Burrell (center) with Marliss Amiea (left) and Onya Russell
Attendees enjoyed Caribbean treats from Exotic Tropical Catering
Jeanette Illidge stars as ‘Stacey Anne’ and ‘Milly’
Youngblood’s home was built in the late 1800’s and she is the 2nd owner
Trey Anthony with “da Kink in My Hair” cast
Theatre patrons enjoying the cast party
“da Kink’s” Maiesha McQueen and Marliss Amiea
Atlanta Voice’s Stan Washington and Terry Burrell
Trey Anthony had family from Canada and Florida come to the opening night
Youngblood‘s home is transitioning into a Bed & Breakfast for 2017
Trey Anthony and guest
This is a photo of the home’s first owners #classic #historic
Youngblood with Horizon Theatre’s Lisa Adler
Photo Credits: RayCornelius.com
