My Own Directions: A Black Man's Journey in the American Theatre

Life in the theater is a rollercoaster ride, with the author's experience as a Black man amplifying the highs and lows. His directing career has been full of rewards and opportunities, but also huge challenges and frustrations. He became artistic director of Pasadena Playhouse after a successful career directing on Broadway, in London, and all over the world, and how he changed and reignited the theater by making diversity a priority onstage and off. This memoir tells the story of what people of color in America must face to make their lives matter.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 277 pages
Publication date: 30 October 2022
Publisher: McFarland & Co Inc

Life in the theatre is an exhilarating and sometimes painful journey, filled with the highs and lows that come with the craft. The author's experience in the American theatre has been particularly profound, as he has often been one of the few, the first, or even the only Black man in the room. His directing career has been a testament to both rewards and challenges, with immense frustrations and anger stemming from the persistent pursuit of race throughout his years in the industry.

Much of the author's wisdom and insights come from his two decades as the artistic director of Pasadena Playhouse, one of America's oldest and most renowned theatres. During his early career, the Playhouse was even considered one of the whitest institutions. This memoir chronicles the author's journey to leadership at Pasadena Playhouse, following a successful career directing on Broadway, in London, and across the globe world. It explores how the theatre was transformed and revitalized under his leadership, with a strong emphasis on prioritizing diversity both onstage and off.

This is a deeply personal story of a man who desired to be recognized for his race but never used it as a reason to be less than fully respected. In many ways, this memoir serves as a reflection on the experiences of people of color in America, highlighting the ongoing challenges they face in striving to make their lives matter.

The author's journey in the American theatre has been marked by both triumphs and struggles, but his unwavering commitment to diversity and excellence has left an indelible mark on the industry. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, determination, and the pursuit of one's dreams, even in the face of adversity.

Weight: 363g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781476688589