Houston’s Arts Community would not be the same without Bebe Wilson’s extraordinary talent. She has put in the work. Whether she is acting for the Ensemble Theatre, teaching theatre students, or being in leadership roles with the Talented Tenth Theater Company, Bebe has given her blood, sweat, and tears to make amazing theater in Houston. Her dedication and commitment deserve to be highlighted and celebrated. We are excited to see Bebe starring as Big Ma in the Stages play Cullud Wattah. We caught up with her to ask a few questions and help Houston learn more about this awesome actress. Hopefully, you will be inspired to catch this dynamic show before it ends on March 31, 2023. Go to www.stageshouston.com for more information.
Afram News: Bebe, please tell us about your background and what led you to become an actor.
I was raised in Shreveport, La. I have always been involved in speech and drama. I competed in speech and orators at district and state levels. I attended college at Louisiana State University majoring in Communication Broadcasting for 2 years, however, my love and passion for the theatre were instrumental in my decision to move to Houston, Texas. I met and start working with the late founder George Hawkins of The Ensemble Theatre in 1980. I have been an integral part of The Ensemble for more than 35 years, working as an actor, Tour Ed coordinator, and director of the Young Performers program. I’m currently working with the Talented Tenth Theatre as Executive Director and a class instructor. Many of our students have gone on to pursue careers in acting on stage and television. I’m a wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.
Afram News: What have been your best experiences in the Houston Theater Community and Why?
One of my best experiences has been working with The Ensemble Theatre and the Talented Tenth Theatre, meeting so many friends, telling stories from a black perspective, working, enriching, and exposing students of color in the school system to the theatre, that may never have the opportunity of seeing the inside of a theatre.
Afram News: How do you think the Houston Theater Community can be improved and get more support?
I believe the Houston Theatre Community can be improved by being more inclusive when selecting their seasons. There are so many actors, really great actors, wanting the opportunity to work, but if no scripts are reflective of the stories and characters of Black people then the work is but for only a few. The continuous support of the community and support from corporate and philanthropists would be helpful in the life of the arts.
Afram News: What was a challenge for you as Big Mama? What did you love?
My challenges in the role of Big Mama were the rhythm of the poetry, pauses, and lulls in the show. Being an actor, the (lulls) or silence is very uncomfortable, it usually means that a line has been dropped or omitted. It was challenging to take breaths, pauses, and lulls. I love how beautiful but painful the story is executed by my amazing director Rachel Dickson, stage manager Trinity, and my unbelievably talented cast, Aryana Green, Reyna Janelle, Jessica Jaye, and Tyne Jeanae. Kudos to the creative team and the staff of Stages Repertory Theatre.
Afram News: How does Cullud Wattah dispel myths and bring forth the truth about the Flint Water Crisis?
The playwright Ms. Erika Dickerson-Despenza does an incredible job based on truth in telling the story of three generations of women facing impossible challenges day to day with the water crisis and that it goes way beyond Flint, MI. Every human has the right to clean water.
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October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
