Tag Archives: gem of the ocean

The American Century Cycle

Posted on October 12, 2014 by Ayodele Nzinga, MFA, PhD

I am often asked why August Wilson? Why did I decide to direct the American Century Cycle? I am producing the America’s greatest playwright’s seminal work in its entirety. I will be the first director to do so in chronological … Continue reading →

Posted in August Wilson, Black Arts, Life., non fiction essay, North American African Perspective, work in progress | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

The Importance of August Wilson to American Theater

Posted on July 4, 2013 by Ayodele Nzinga, MFA, PhD

August Wilson is a playwright. In my opinion he is the most important American playwright of the 20th century.  His work the Century Cycle is the most expansive chronicle of American life in  the history of American theater. His tale of America … Continue reading →

Posted in Black Arts, Craft, I'm Just Saying!, Life., non fiction essay, North American African Perspective, Performing Arts, Tales of Iron and Water, Theater | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

True North: Me and Wilson

Posted on September 29, 2012 by Ayodele Nzinga, MFA, PhD

When you are on a quest there are some things in your control and others that are left to fate. There are things you can bring to the journey but the more important things are those you take away. One … Continue reading →

Posted in arts scholarship, August Wilson, belonging, Black Arts, journal, non fiction essay, North American African Perspective, Performing Arts, Tales of Iron and Water, warrior art | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

A Song of August Wilson or The Lion’s Roar, Parts 1, 2 and 3.

Posted on October 15, 2011 by Ayodele Nzinga, MFA, PhD

There is no return from this baptism by Wilson. Nothing will ever be the same again. I have been caught by the piper. I follow the roar of the lion.
Continue reading →

Posted in Black Arts, Craft, journal, North American African Perspective, Performing Arts | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

In the Valley

Posted on October 15, 2011 by Ayodele Nzinga, MFA, PhD

I am of the Valley. It is my home. That hard spot next to the rock is my reference point. It is from this point I greet the sun and the things that walk in my night. It is from this perspective that I tilt my head to capture the sound of God’s voice. It is from this vantage point I strive for justice. Continue reading →

Posted in Black Arts, journal, North American African Perspective, Performing Arts, Theater, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Comments on Walking thru Fire or Banging Full Metal

Posted on August 20, 2011 by Ayodele Nzinga, MFA, PhD

I loathe the presence of a person who insist on complicating the simple. I abhor those who traffic in road blocks. For me that’s like a red flag to a bull. Continue reading →

Posted in Black Arts, Craft, Life., North American African Perspective, Theater | Tagged , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

The Lower Bottom Playaz; Full Metal

Posted on June 16, 2011 by Ayodele Nzinga, MFA, PhD

Bullets are usually made of lead. If you cover a lead bullet with copper you get a Full Metal Jacket; an armor piercing projectile. It is our intention to wound you with art. You will leave feeling something. You  will be moved . … Continue reading →

Posted in Black Arts, Craft, INK, journal, Life., North American African Perspective, Performing Arts, Poetry, spokenword, Theater, work in progress | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Gem; Again

Posted on June 14, 2011 by Ayodele Nzinga, MFA, PhD

Since I last wrote about Mr. Wilson, and his contribution to my foundation, some time has passed. Of course a great deal has happened. I have read the entire Pittsburgh Cycle and have dedicated myself to the production of as … Continue reading →

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Diary of a Mad Creative: I create therefore I am. Pt 15

Posted on November 9, 2010 by Ayodele Nzinga, MFA, PhD

I have been wounded by Wilson and something is growing in the cut. Art should bruise, inspire, provoke, affirm, pose questions and soothe. Gem has done all that and Wilson is offering me more. I accept. Continue reading →

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Dairy of a Mad Creative: I create therefore I am Pt. 12

Posted on October 11, 2010 by Ayodele Nzinga, MFA, PhD

We are who we say we are. Standing in the footlights paving a road others can follow. We are on the top of the mountain looking around at the terrain we have traveled. We are all need rest like air but for … Continue reading →

Posted in Black Arts, Craft, journal, Life., Performing Arts, Theater | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment