Interview: Playwright/Director Eureka Lewis and Musical Director Andre Chez Lewis - A Family of Talent Unity

Marina Kamen interviews Eureka Lewis and Andre Chez Lewis

I first had the pleasure of meeting writer/director Eureka Lewis and her son Musical Director/Musician/Composer, Andre Chez Lewis while at one of their plays called "What They'll Remember!" This work was originally performed in 2001.

"What They'll Remember" explored this question. Why would an average woman commit murder?

A noted psychologist, played by Rew Starr, convinces prison officials to allow her a six week study in a women's correctional facility. Each of the five inmates she's selected for her sessions, are serving life sentences or on death row.

Unlike many prisoners, they don't have criminal histories... not even a parking ticket. They were each essentially the "girl next door." Something caused them to lose it. The journey to discovering what that "something" was... proves to be both revealing, and heart wrenching.

This incredibly presented piece of theatre brought everyone in the audience to tears as they heard each story of women brought together in a prison weekly meeting. The talented cast was diverse and strong.

Cast members included: Tadaa Jackson, Rew Starr, Anita Purcell, Nandanie Devi, Rachel Navarro, Jessica Sylvester, Nellanna Mupier & Lia Holman

Wonderful to witness a cast of women baring their souls in this powerful piece with music by Andre Chez Lewis who's Broadway Musical Director credits include "Memphis the Musical", "Motown the Musical" and "Holler if you Hear me".

Written and Directed by Eureka Lewis ( yes, mother to Andre) "What They'll Remember" was sure to to stir your mind with questions regarding our legal system and how family and upbringing plays such a dynamic role in creating who we are as women and people.

Eureka will be holding auditions coming up for a new piece of work she and Andre are creating.

Check out the interview below!

Additional articles by Marina Kamen on Broadwayworld.com

Photo Credit: Kamen Entertainment Group, Inc. NYC