Special to the AmNews
Billy Porter, the Tony, Grammy, Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Award-winning actor for his portrayal of Lola in “Kinky Boots,” in which he is still starring on Broadway, has decided to take a step in a slightly different direction. Porter has penned a play called “While I Yet Live,” and it will be mounted for six weeks, Sept. 23 through Oct. 31, at Primary Stages at the Duke on 42nd Street.
Anyone who has seen Porter perform in “Kinky Boots” or any of the other theatrical productions that he’s been in, including “Smokey Joe’s Cafe” and “Miss Saigon,” or seen him in movies, nighttime television shows or daytime soap operas knows that when he performs, he brings his all to that stage. How exciting it is to think of him creating a play.
Another thing that is very exciting is the outstanding cast that has been assembled for this production, Emmy Award winner S. Epatha Merkerson, Tony Award winner Lillias White, Elain Graham, Sheria Irving, Kevyn Morrow, Larry Powell and Sharon Washington. The play is directed by Sheryl Kaller.
Recently, Porter spoke with the AmNews about his new work before the production began rehearsals.
Q&A follows:
AmNews: What made you decide to write “While I Yet Live?”
BP: I was disenchanted with the dearth of material that was available to me as a Black, gay man. So I decided I would try and write what I didn’t see and try to be a solution to what I perceived to be the problem.
The play is about a young man coming of age in Pittsburgh. You mentioned in the press release, “Reflecting on my own life experience as a gay, Black, Christian man, and survivor of abuse, I wanted to write a play that was about family, faith and the healing power of forgiveness. Three things very necessary to move forward and make change in your life.” What type of abuse did you experience?
Come see the play and you’ll find out.
What do you want audiences to come away with after seeing this production?
That with patience, one must embrace truth, which is the only road to true forgiveness and healing.
What inspired you to live each day and what does so now, though, of course, you are a highly successful, award-winning performer?
My mother. My mother. My mother.
How does it feel to work with such a powerful cast?
I’m humbled and overwhelmed with the power and dedication of these amazing artists in this room.
Who do you hope to inspire with your story?
Any and everyone who needs the word.
Make plans to see Porter’s work and support this amazing cast as they bring his words to life.
