MUSICAL SPOTLIGHT: **LEON WILLIAMS**

Did you originally know the history of "The Legends" that are in this story, or did

you find out about them because of this play?

(Pictured: Leon Williams)

I knew of most of “The Legends”. I did not recognize Fannie Lou Hamer by her name or face when I looked her up online.

Do you think the history of the Civil Rights movement is still prevalent today?

I think the history of the Civil Rights movement is very much prevalent today. Sadly, it’s still being rewritten because civil rights are either still being blatantly ignored or are still being systematically denied.

Do you participate in today's progressive black movements? And if so, how?

I’m not actively apart of a movement or organization. I’d still like to think that I’m aware of our progression as Black people and as a musician/artist, I’m aware of the content that I will put out.

Do you think this play and others like it are reaching the people they need to, to be

effective?

Having read over the play a few times, I believe it really does a good and simple of job of bridging the past with the present. There are certain transformations that take place in the play that have been manifested in the real world. I like to think people are becoming more aware and are willing to change even if it’s painstaking.

Do you think the music in this piece is an important part of telling the story?

I like the range of the music. It covers a broad span of time all the way up into the present. You get a musical history lesson. You also get a sense of change and moving forward.

Is being part of this cast and crew an enjoyable experience?

I’ve only been at one rehearsal. In that brief time, I can tell everyone is positive and excited about acting and singing.

Where do you plan to go in this field of work?

I’m currently in school for sound design for film/tv and music production. Plays will always need live music. It’s seems like producing for a play could be a viable option.

What is it like working with the Director?

It’s been cool to see Alan’s work come to life. It’s been enlightening looking over the materials from the script all the way down to the costumes and overviews of characters.

What is it like working with the Music Director?

Missing the initial rehearsal put me out the loop as far as what the MD’s vision and intent was but thanks to the dropbox materials, I’ve had all the materials I needed.

What makes “Chapter 22” so unique?

I believe “Chapter 22” is unique because of its message. It speaks directly to generations of Black people about our plight and progression. It’s current. It’s not overkill. The mash-up of music and range of history and information is just enough where even a young child could come away with the director’s intent.

Are the performing arts an important aspect to the African-American diaspora?

Absolutely. It’s important to know that the African-American diaspora was and is more than entertainment. We were able to tell our truths and be authentic through art.