The Fire This Time Festival, focusing on the experience of African American artists and audiences, takes place this year from January 15-28. The festival provides a platform for emerging African American writers to have their works produced and shown to the world. We want you to meet some of the playwrights in the week leading to the festival. Here's Mona R. Washington, whose play The Rider will be performed as part of Fire This Time's 10-minute play series.
Describe your play, it's ______ meets ______.
It's love meets hope, or lack thereof.
How did you first realize you wanted to become a playwright?
Seeing some really bad plays.
Mention one play you think is flawless.
Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?
Who is your favorite character in a play?
Whoever is the most conflicted. I always want to see and analyze why they do what they do.
What does your perfect place for writing look like?
Lots of light and a clean desk or table with at least two comfortable places to sit.
How do you know when your play is "done"?
I don't. Ever.
What's one line of dialogue you're really proud of having written?
"Always? Always is almost always never."
What actor (male or female) would you love to have do one of your plays?
Alfre Woodard.
What is the meaning of being part of The Fire This Time Festival for you?
The luxury of seeing and hearing my vision. Fantabulous.
What is your biggest wish for the theatre community in 2018?
Lots more, and a bit better.
For more information on The Fire This Time Festival click here.
