Entertainment

“Puddles of Lies” hits the Stage in Atlanta

Published on May 5, 2018

by Briannia Boatswain
Photos by Jerome Dorn

The stage play “PuddleS Of Lies” created and produced by Nicole Malone, was an absolute success. Directed by Mac Boeye, the stage play took place at the Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center at 8:00 P.M. sharp on Thursday May 2, 2018. In my eyes, the play gave those who attended an opportunity to see first hand – some of the dysfunction that goes on within Black families daily.

Additionally, it emphasized that (the Black family) always rise – even when things are bad and ugly. We, my people – find a way. Within this stage play – the audience was provided an example of 1. Single mothers struggling to raise their kids due to broken relationships ; 2. Family secrets and how secrets are capable of causing damage within family relationships 3. Death in the family – which gave the audience an opportunity to see how Black families tend to cope ; 4. And, overall – Nicole Malone, the creator – painted a picture.

The picture showed that everyone goes through situations, struggle, and obstacles . For instance (Maxine), the main character in the play – was going through a lot. However, she covered all of her pain and triumphs up with a smile in front of the outsiders (the men she slept with)- all while, she caused her daughter and other family members pain behind close doors. The stage play allowed my eyes to envision that “we all have a story”. But, how will you rise ? Will it take a fatal death – such as (Maxine) experienced during a scene in the stage play to “wake up” – to, heal those wounds ? The stage play “Puddlies Of Lies” made me realize, we can not hold grudges. We must let go and let God. The higher power. We also, must learn that we can know Inflict our own pain onto others – that’s not fair, that is toxic.

Furthermore, I must say- Nicole Malone did a fantastic job choosing her actors. Each actor, played their role well. You can tell that Nicole made sure that they practiced efficiently when preparing for the play. You know the saying “practice makes perfect” – well, the Stage Play was just that- perfect. I truly walked away feeling like I had discovered a new piece of information about myself. I related deeply with some of the obstacles that Maxine faced in the play. And, I am thankful. We all tend to hold on to things that causes us pain; we tend to get caught up in “not letting go” ; but- I have the privilege of saying that “A Puddle Of Lies”, inspired me to let go of everything that has caused me pain- and blossom. Do not wait until it is to late to heal yourself of toxic things, – be free. “You can be free”.

Related Topics:Featured, Nicole Malone, Sir Calloway

InDaHouse

Celebrity photographer and disabled Vietnam veteran Jerome Dorn embodies the very definition of resilience. Born in Philadelphia, the fifth of seven children, Dorn stayed focused throughout his youth, eventually obtaining his degree in Criminal Justice. Dorn has worked with the Philadelphia Police Department, Department of Justice, World Wide Detective Agency, and several other high profile security groups. Throughout his successful career, Dorn wrestled with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, an aftereffect of his military service. Battling the pain and debilitating effect of PTSD, Dorn found comfort behind the camera. Photography proved to be not only therapeutic, but life changing as well. Dorn picked up his first camera in 1970 while serving in Vietnam and knew instantly that behind the lens was where he belonged. His shooting style and photographs were special, generating a buzz in the industry. In 1985, he began his career in photojournalism, working in a variety of genres. Dorn’s credentials include fashion, lifestyle photography, photojournalism, and celebrity/red carpet coverage. Working with MSNBC, Jet Magazine, and major publications in Philadelphia and around the country, Dorn has had the honor of capturing the images of hundreds of notable celebrities and politicians including President Barack Obama, George Bush Jr, Bill and Hillary Clinton, Maya Angelou, Jesse Jackson, Rihanna, Snoop Dog, Will Smith, and Tyler Perry. Photography has sent Dorn around the globe, inspiring his passion for civil activism. In 1995, Dorn assembled and led a group of forty-two men to the Million Man March. Together, they spent five days walking from Philadelphia to Washington DC. In his travels, Dorn observed a common theme amongst the youth of the world. Many of the children he encountered seemed lost. Understanding that opportunities for at-risk youth are minimal, Dorn was inspired to make a difference. Established by Dorn in 2011, InDaHouseMedia was built on the idea that there is room in the house for everyone. With InDaHouseMedia, Dorn’s mission is to provide the future generation with positive direction through sports, music, and photography.