February 27, 2006 (Vol. 3, No. 3)

Lehman Grads to Perform in New Play by Lehman Professor

Theatre alumna Noele Phillips (Left) with author Nikki Giovanni

Poet and author Nikki Giovanni will soon see her work brought to life on the stage through a new work directed by Lehman Professor Susan Watson Turner (Journalism, Communication and Theatre) for the Urban Theatre Institute. Based on the author's poetry, A Fire Inside—The Story and Poetry of Nikki Giovanni will bring the audience through a powerful transition from the early years of Giovanni's life up until today. The show will run from March 6 through March 17 at the 45th Street Theatre.

The cast will feature students from the Lehman College Theatre program, including program alumna Noele Phillips in the role of Nikki Giovanni. Recently, Phillips had a chance to meet and talk to the poet about the script and her role.

"A Fire Inside takes us through the powerful transitions of this renowned poet's life," says Professor Watson Turner, "and the ensemble brings vivacity to the intimate, edgy and unapologetic poetic narratives that render them unforgettable."

The 45th Street Theatre is located at 354 W. 45th St. (between Eighth & Ninth Avenues). For show times and reservations, call the UTI ticket line at (845) 342-1705.

The Urban Theatre Institute is a joint effort between Professor Turner (co-founder) and Professor Arthur M. Reese of Chicago State University. The Institute is dedicated to producing and publishing works that reflect upon, and preserve,urban culture and history through theatre production.

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