2004 Shows
Relevant Hearsay: Stories from 57
January 22, 2004
At fifty years of age Shirley Carney began to write short stories. Her stories reflect the journey of a black woman nearing a half century of living. Ms. Carney’s voice is distinctive and her characters capture the complexity of her varied experiences. She was born in rural Mississippi, transplanted to Chicago by her teens, served in the Navy during the Vietnam era, and became an unwed mother, all before her 21st birthday. Now living in Texas she continues to straddle the fence between urban sensibilities and rural practicality. She says of her stories, "Some are true. Some mostly true. Some "Dragnet". The names have been changed to protect the innocent."
Stories written by Shirley Carney
Adapted for the stage by Shepsu Aakhu and Mignon McPherson Nance
Directed by Mignon McPherson Nance
Notes from the Bottletree
May 22, 2004
Danger, art, beauty and a haunted past drive this provocative new play set in “intown” Atlanta. This modern lyrical tale exposes a passionate young photographer, Jules, as she searches for clarity in both her life and work. Her father has recently passed away, and Red, her estranged brother, is on his way to Atlanta from his most recent prison stay for an unwelcome visit. The brother and sister must face their shared memories and determine what is to be done with the family home. In the midst of this struggle, Jules, with the help of her painter/sculptor boyfriend Che, is putting the finishing touches on a photography exhibit and art installation that could be her big break. Jules is a woman trying to reconcile her past, present and future while coming to terms with her relationships with the three important men in her life.