Writer and director Messiah Equiano talks The Penis Monologues presents: MAN LAW!
Premiering July 24, 2016, Man Law is sure to be a gripping, ground-breaking and inspirational stage play that addresses: why shootings involving police officers and civilians occur, what each person involved may be thinking at the time of the shooting, and what are some solutions that can be implemented. The production also examines how violence has become seemingly “normal” in America and how the violence affects our families and communities. There will be a brief, solution-based talk back involving police officers and residents of the community after the show.
This event is in partnership with superintendent of the Chicago Police Department and takes place on Sunday, July 24, 2016, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the DuSable Museum of African American History located at 740 East 56th Place in Chicago.
Messiano spoke with rolling out about his inspiration, goals and what it takes to be iconic.
Do you most often actively seek inspiration or does it find you? Or is it a combination of the two?
A combination of the two. I actively seek inspiration by actively living! As I live and enjoy this amazing life Almighty God has blessed me to have, inspiration then finds me.
What led you to art in general and to your art form(s) in particular?
I began writing when I was 7 years old. My first writings included short stories and poetry. Since then, I’ve emerged as a playwright and screenwriter. I enjoy all of the mediums for they all serve a unique purpose in storytelling.
Have you ever been involved in traditional business? If so, how?
Yes! Companies, schools and brands are seeking new ways to spread the word about their services and products and many of them have brought me on to produce marketing content for them.
In addition to mastering their art, what other skill sets to you recommend that artists develop if they want to be successful?
Mastering the business of their art.
How do you stay at the leading edge of your craft?
I stay at the leading edge by not taking it easy on myself as I tell the stories I tell. I’m always seeking new ways to do things, doing things that have not been done before and pushing myself to never be satisfied or complacent.
Do you think that there are any widely held misconceptions about art and/or artists? If so, what are they and how do you work to dispel them?
I don’t know if people truly understand how much energy, time, effort, prayer, sacrifice and discipline that go into artistry. If not, there’s no way they’d ever ask for a discount.
How do you map out your goals? How do you measure your success?
I listen to God and measure success by making sure I’ve used every single ounce of talent I’ve been blessed with. If I have, I’m successful and all of the other elements of success will also be in place.
Who do you consider to be your peers in your field? Who do you see or use as examples to emulate?
August Wilson, Steven Spielberg, Spike Lee
Name two of your top role models: one in the art world and one from outside of it.
Fela Kuti, Jesus Christ
Name three books, works, performances or exhibits that changed how you view life and/or yourself.
Discover the Power Within You, Malcolm X (the film by Spike Lee), Clean House the stage play
Why do you consider continued learning important?
It’s important to keep learning because nothing in life is stagnant and neither should our minds be.
What affirmations do you repeat to yourself that contribute to your success?
I can do all things through Christ that strengthens ME.
What role does art have in the community? What role would you like to see art play in the community?
I truly feel art can save, inspire and teach the community. The arts can be a true agent for change.
What role does technology play in your day-to-day life? How do you utilize it?
I’m not the most technically advanced guy but technology is extremely important to not only me but to our society as a whole.
What software, app or other technological innovation has made the biggest difference in your life and/or career?
Final Draft, Final Cut Pro, SD Cards, Intuit Payment Systems
Please define your personal brand.
ME is a representation of who, what and how I am as an individual and a business. ME operates with a purpose.
What is your favorite vacation destination and why?
Anywhere that has a beach. I enjoy vacationing but don’t do it enough. My street to beach ratio is too disproportioned.
If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be?
For people to love and support each other more.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
To remain my true god self at all times.
What does it take to be iconic? In your estimation, who has achieved that status?
To be iconic means to full-fill your purpose for being on this Earth to the best of your ability. To excel far beyond any limits and expectations anyone, including yourself has imposed. Some people include: Fela Kuti, Bob Marley, Jesus Christ, El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz, Ghandi, Buddha, Oprah, the Obamas, etc.
Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite. Click here.
