Gem of the Ocean

     August Wilson is arguably one of the best playwrights of our time.  Last night I had the opportunity to hear a considerable amount of monologues from 10 of his classic works.

     The August Wilson Monologue Competition takes place every year in several states throughout the country, with the finale taking place here in New York City.  High School students from around the country pour  their hearts into these adult topics to compete for scholarships and awards.  Though some of the language may be too much for a high school student to comprehend, as Kenny Leon said “there are invaluable life lessons within” August Wilson’s work.

     During a break while the judges deliberated the competitors scores, Phylicia Rashad, and her daughter Condola Rashad performed a stage reading from one of Mr. Wilson’s play’s “Gem of the Ocean”.  I was not only moved to be in the same room a women who work, I admire, but also the magnitude of talent I was surrounded by.  From high school and Tony Award winning actor.

     On May 7th, Mr. Wilson brought us all together to celebrate his work and our creative spirit.

    In this sea of yellow cabs, and endless subway lines this diamond will continue to shine.