I have been acting and directing most of my life. Theater is
the way I communicate with the world. I take on projects that touch me, that
allow me to connect artistically and emotionally with all of humanity. "By the
Way, Meet Vera Stark" is such a project. The story focuses on the life of one woman, smart, talented, trying to break into film at a time when opportunities for African-American women were severely limited, their roles restricted to playing maids or other household help, the underclass of society. And yet, by dint of talent, resolve, and the courage to take a chance, Vera makes it. But does she?
Framed as a comedy, Nottage's play, as one reviewer said, "has fangs." It satirizes not only 1933 Hollywood, but today's attitudes about race, television talk-show celebrity worship, and - to quote the same reviewer - "[the] smarty-pants...who think they understand all there is to know about someone by reviewing their films."
What We Need & What You Get
The play "...Vera Stark" is a complex project, spanning 70 years from 1933 to 2003, with several looks back to a 1973 talk show interview with Vera herself. The film that makes Vera's career, the Southern epic "The Belle of New Orleans," is an integral part of the second act of the play. That means that we need to replicate the film - or the important part of it. That involves renting the equipment - camera, projector, screen, etc. - not only for the filming itself but also for the production. Additionally, we need to rent rehearsal space, film studio, and a production venue, not only for the film, but for all the steps of the stage production. Some of those expenses have already been paid (licensing, scripts, audition space). Others are upcoming.
All the participants so far - cast and crew - are donating their time and talents.; some because of their faith in me, all because of their passion for the play. Although I can't repay them for their gift of themselves, I would like to reimburse them at least for their expenses on behalf of this production. Whatever funds we raise will be shared.
Other Ways You Can Help
If you can support us financially, that's wonderful. If you can donate time, furniture, fabrics, it all helps. A big help, too, is getting the word out in every venue you have access to. Whatever you can do, we thank you! Remember that all contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law. Use the Indiegogo share tools!