Locals rehearse Praise' for Temple Theatre production

By By Steve Gillespie / staff writer
Feb. 27, 2004
The cast of "Praise" is hard at work in rehearsals at The Art Connection in downtown Meridian.
Born in Fort Wayne, Ind., Edwards, 40, said he wrote his first version of the play in 1988 after working with a music promoter in California and being close to gospel, rhythm and blues, and rock performers.
He said he has written three plays and one screenplay, but he feels his revised version of "Praise" is his best work yet.
Sharon Blue, 36, of Meridian, is one of the cast members. She works as a property manager with Marion Road Apartments and plays the role of Wanda in "Praise."
She said the play is a great opportunity to showcase her singing and acting talents and that rehearsing with other talented people has been fun.
She also said she was drawn to the message the play delivers.
The play also includes members of the local Young People of Praise Gospel Choir, better known as YPOP.
Edwards is founder of Black Thread Productions in Meridian. He said he hopes to use proceeds from the March 27 performance to stage other performances of "Praise" and help establish a black performing arts council in Meridian.
Edwards said a promotional group with which he has been in touch has shown an interest in bringing the production to Jackson, as well as has a minister who is interested in staging "Praise" in Chicago.
Want to go?
What: "Praise," a locally produced three-act play about five people pursuing careers in gospel music.
Where: The Temple Theatre, 2320 Eighth St.
When: Saturday, March 27, at 7 p.m.
Admission: $12 in advance, $14 at the door. Group rates are available. Children under 12 will be admitted for $7.
Tickets: For tickets
or for more information call William Edwards at 527-9574. Tickets also will be available at The Art Connection, 3813 Eighth St.; J.J. Record Mart #2, 2516 Eighth St.; and at the Temple Theater Box Office.