New Play Explores Damage Done, When the Truth Comes to Light

New Play Explores Damage Done, When the Truth Comes to Light

 

 

The truth, no matter how many lies have been told to cover it up nor how long ago those lies were told, has a way of coming out.

 

That’s exactly what the characters discover in the new stage play by Brandi Burks appearing on stage Sept. 18 through Oct. 11 at Stage 52 in Los Angeles.

 

In “Shhh . . . Quiet As Kept,” Gerald is bothered by a funny feeling. While men aren’t often credited with having intuition, the father of five has always had a suspicion that something was not quite right with one of his children.

 

“Shhh . . .” is the fourth play produced by Burks’ company Happy4Show.

 

Last year, it was the smash sell out “Men Cry Too,” and before that it was another winner, “Come Sunday.”

 

A 2005 show the Los Angeles Theatre Center in downtown Los Angeles called “This is Not My Destiny,” which sold out every night of the show, began Burks’ run of successful productions, and the Compton-born playwright said she is looking forward showing audiences some new elements of her talents.

 

“Out of the four plays I’ve written, this is the first one based on a true story; that I saw unfold right in front of my eyes,” explained the young playwright about her inspiration for this production. “After it was all said and done, I decided to bring this story to the theater because I knew that everyone—no matter what race, creed or color—will able to relate to this story. It is amazing to be enlightened by the truth; and it’s even more impactful, when the truth is life changing.

 

“From this play, I have learned that no matter how painful it may be; it’s always better to know the truth,” added Burks.

 

In addition to the play’s origins, Burks said the other thing that is special about this new production is that it also features three original songs written by her, arranged by her music director Donisha Brumfield, and performed by a dynamic young drummer and piano duo—Donovan Longley and Cedrick Lilly, respectively.

 

The cast for Shhh . . . is also a collection of talented local performers. They include Los Angeles natives Shakira Gagnier and Shannon Myvett; and Compton’s Donell “Peanut” Smith. Others rounding out the ensemble include Cynthia Okocha, as well as Texas-born and raised Kisha Simone.

Shhh . . . Quiet As Kept appears on stage Saturdays Sept. 19, 26, and Oct. 3, and 10 at 8 p.m. and Sundays Sept. 20, 27, Oct. 4 and 11 at 4 p.m. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. Stage 52 is located at 5299 W. Washington Blvd., Los Angeles.

For additional information, call (323) 600-7402.

 

 

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