NAACP Award-winning writer and director Je’Caryous Johnson’s hit stage play Cheaper to Keep Her comes to Los Angeles and rolling out got some Black Hollywood scoop from one of the leads in the play, newcomer Christian Keyes and one of the actor’s BFFs, Lisa Leslie.
How do you feel about the current state of Black Hollywood?
Christian Keyes: Well I know for a lot of my friends in the industry, work is thin, but thanks to opportunities like this, and us being able to make some of our own opportunities, I think it’s looking up. There is definitely potential for some growth and I am looking forward to doing some of my own things [and] incorporating a lot of the people I am currently working with.
What is it like transitioning from actress to producer?
Vivica Fox: Well, I am still an actress. But as a producer, you just get asked a whole lot of questions that you don’t get asked as an actress. I am constantly looking at everyone’s performances and making sure they hit their keys. So I wear a lot of different hats, but they are hats that I am so proud and honored to wear.
How has it been transitioning from music to the theater?
Brian McKnight: There really wasn’t much of a difference. When I do my concerts, I run them like a play. I usually have a storyline that goes throughout my show and I have been doing it for the last 10 years. The only difference here is that this isn’t all about me.
What advice would you give to someone interested in pursuing acting?
Vivica Fox: Get thick skin! And watch what I do. I have learned that I am in a business that says show business, so I’ve learned to know the business behind the show and that’s why I’ve had a career that has lasted so long. And I am glad I went to college.
Brian McKnight: You have to ask yourself, ‘Do I want to be famous or do I want to have a career?’ It’s about setting your self apart and being great, not just being OK, but being great.
Christian Keyes: Just stay ready. Stay in those acting classes and work like you already have major things booked; and that way when those great things do come up, you are already prepared.
How does it feel to be a part of the opening night for such a successful stage play?
Lisa Leslie: It’s great. Vivica called me and said she was going to be in a play, and when I found out she was coming to town, I told her, ‘I’ll be there!’
And be there she was, along with hundreds of screaming fans with their camera phones in snap mode taking pictures of the stars as they made their way to the stage. Cheaper to Keep Her is a hilarious play with a fantastic cast that is selling out theater houses across the country. –marqueta smith
