Introducing Harkins House Productions....
Ladies & Gentlemen, this is my company, Harkins House Productions (HHP). I was given the vision to start a company that will serve as the primary vehicle for my work as a playwright initially, then as it grows, groom aspiring playwrights, and stage their works as well. In addition, the company will embark into the growing indie film industry while maintaining its' theatre roots. Also, HHP offers events with a cultural twist under the sub-brand Kulture Groove, and lastly, provides innovative services to meet the underserved needs of the Black community.
What Makes HHP So Hot....
The uniqueness of HHP is the company's committment to the rich legacy of Black theatre by tackling critical themes, offering dynamic social commentary, and discovering and grooming a new generation of Black stage actors. In addition, HHP wants to elevate the voice and image of Black people, with a specific emphasis on Black women. As the company grows, HHP will be utilizing technology in a major way so that its' productions are accessible with the click of a mouse. As it pertains to audiences, HHP aims to fill a void that exists between Broadway, which seldom reaches out to Black audiences, and Tyler Perry.
More About Our Main Stage Productions....
As of March of this year, Harkins House is three years old & has two successful original stageplays to its' credit, FOUR WOMEN and The Man Store. Debuting November 2010, FOUR WOMEN is set during the '70s amidst a backdrop of rare Soul music. It's the story of four friends and neighbors living in a fictional Southern neighborhood called Moon River. Beautiful Worthy, Nola Jane Lavender, Lena Mitchell, and Delores Taylor are all dealing with deep personal issues while depending on each other for support. With its bold language and witty humor, the stage play resonated wonderfully with the three nearly sold out audiences during its run.
The Man Store debuted in May 2013 for two successful weekends. This stage play is about a scientist named Dr. Delilah Banks, who becomes the first Black woman and scientist to develop a clone in the image of Black men. Along with her daughter, Portia, Delilah opens a business that sells these newly designed Black male clones to single Black women as options for husbands. The stage play is one part satire, one part drama, and one part comedy, and it offers a unique perspective on Black love and relationships. The Man Store is scheduled for another run during the weekend of November 22-24, 2013 in Memphis, TN.
Why HHP Needs Your Help...
While I am very proud of the company, it has a long way to go before it reaches its' pinnacle. Harkins House is intentionally a for-profit company that specializes in indie Black theatre, meaning it is not apart of the traditional theatre circuit nor is it structured to receive grants. Funds are raised through sponsorships/advertisers and special campaigns/events (such as this one). The company was established this way to maintain artistic/creative control, fluidity in company operations, and less competition & politics while focusing primarily on promoting the work.
Therefore, I encourage all of you to support the company and its' vision. With your help, HHP can continue its work in bringing quality productions to Memphis and the surrounding areas before expanding nationwide.
I humbly ask you to donate a few dollars, which will be used to cover theatre rentals, set design, wardrobe/costumes, and other operating expenses for our productions. Every dime you donate will be used for those specific purposes and you will receive some great perks in return for your support! Take a look at the donations and select one that's most comfortable for your wallet. Whatever you give, we greatly appreciate it!
Sincerely,
Chandra Kamaria, Founder/Senior Playwright