The Journey of the Black Actor in America

Acting is a tough career choice for anyone. For the Black actor in America, it has been a long, hard, journey.  For decades the story has been the same: their paths roadblocked by racist commentary and decisions that directly affect their careers, typecasting that minimizes their worth as artists and disrespect that is soul crushing for their self-esteem. That trajectory forces a lack of self confidence in their abilities to rise above the ugly noise and standout in a way that cannot be denied.  A small percentage of Black actors, and actors of color, manage to do just that and fly away to the stars.

The Power of Education

For 56 years, from Howard U to Duke Ellington School of the Arts, Professor Vera J. Katz has been teaching Black actors the "tools of the trade." We will follow these five Duke Ellington graduates from high school to college as Moyo, Eric, Heaven, Rainah, and Abdullah chase their dreams working to reach the top like other students of Vera's who came before them;

Phylicia Rashad, Debbie Allen, Taraji P. Henson, Isaiah Washington, Tracie Thoms, Corey Hawkins, Lynn Whitfield, Anthony Anderson, Jayme Lawson, and the Black Panther, himself, Chadwick Boseman. Just some of Katz’s former students!
 

The Lasting Impact of Tikkun Olam
"Repair the World"

We will witness through Vera's lens, how with respect, dignity, and love, those dedicated to bettering the lives of others can create powerful, impactful and lasting relationships. As they build trust and understanding together each impacts the others' life, even though they may come from completely disparate worlds. In this way, we begin to "repair the world." This was the edict that Vera's Jewish mother implored to her as a young girl. She was told that it was her responsibility to give back --  to make the world a better place.