"Start spreading the news, I'm leaving today, I want to be a part of it , New York, New York!" Aah, the words of every aspiring actor or performer on a mission to 'make it big' in New York City. At least, that is the societal norm. I caught up with some amazing North Carolina A&T Theatre Alumni after our victorious day at the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. I entered a spacious yet nostalgic apartment in the Bronx filled with vibrant smiles, laughter and lots of turkey. And I'll tell you, there is nothing like sharing a turkey with a room full of artists! Musicians, Actors, and singers were all present to celebrate the Thanksgiving Holiday and talk about 'good theatre'. Everyone was aware of what new shows were on Broadway, whose who in the industry, the amazing or not so great vocalists making their debut, and reputations. Yes, the reputation of an artist has a huge impact on whether they continue to work in New York City. "I have some talented friends in this city and none of them can get a $50 dollar gig because of their attitude."said Darell Hunt, an A&T theatre Alumni now living in New York City. Hunt is a tall, graceful man with a sense of elegance and wisdom. His posture is impeccable, along with his knowledge of the theatre. "I didn't know that black folks actually studied theatre", said one of the guests in a respectful manner at the Thanksgiving dinner. Hunt replied, "Well, the African Grove Theatre was one of the first black theaters started here in New York in 1821, so African American Theatre has been around for centuries." I gleamed with joy as Darell responded to the curious guest because The African Grove Theater was one of the first theaters that we learn about in our African American Drama class at North Carolina A&T. Ding! The light bulb came on in my head, you really do use the material you learn in school in the real world! When how asked Darell how the department of theatre at North Carolina A&T prepare him for a professional career, he said that it helped him to clarify his identity as an African American artist. "The theatre department gave me a sense of awareness and helped me to prepare for the real world.", Hunt stated. For Darell, the New York hustle is a reality. He works for Broadway.com and he also is the Host at a restaurant in SOHO. One can tell that his passion and love for the theatre keeps him going everyday. Born and raised in Greensboro, NC, Hunt took a leap of faith and headed for the big apple this year. His is deeply rooted, confident, and well prepared to handle the challenges he faces in NYC. "I love this cold weather, these raggedy trains, I love it all.", said Hunt. On that Thanksgiving Day, the commonality of love for the arts brought us together.
No comments:
Post a Comment