Triple threat actor, singer and dancer LaChanze is a Tony Award-winning powerhouse who is currently reigning supreme in the Broadway premiere of Trouble in Mind at the American Airlines Theatre in the heart of Times Square. The play continues to receive rave reviews and move audiences with its wry humor and inside look at what it’s like to be a Black actress navigating the ins and outs of the New York theater world.
Here’s what LaChanze had to say to us just recently:
Hype Hair: Why is a play written in 1955 so relevant and poignant in 2021, and what drew you to the role of Wiletta Mayer?
LaChanze: Trouble in Mind is a timeless work – it addresses issues of representation, equality and fairness. Through the lens of a Black actress and her journey to the stage, it’s also about race in America. In this way, it also captures aspects of the struggles of what it means to be Black in America. These are all themes and issues that are just as relevant today as they were more than 60 years ago.
This play takes on the issues with wry humor and wit. It’s an honor to play this role – Wiletta Mayer is the story of so many of us, and her journey is comparable to what Black people and other historically excluded communities endure to achieve their dreams and just to survive.
Hype Hair: What can audiences expect from this play, and what do you hope people can get out of experiencing a true master work by the unsung yet so talented playwright Alice Childress?
LaChanze: Audiences can expect a beautiful, visually stimulating production with pristine direction by the brilliant Charles Randolph-Wright. There is also a richness and diversity of the characters and ultimately it is the subject matter itself. It’s relatable, it’s challenging and dealing with issues like racism in the Deep South; and, at the same time, it’s humorous.
Trouble in Mind tells a story, offers glimpses into the Black experience by tracing Wiletta’s journey as an actress –and as a Black woman trying to make her mark in an often unrelenting – and unforgiving industry.
Audiences can also expect to see Alice Childress’s rich and engaging script come to life. It is an incredible experience for me personally and professionally to bring her words to the stage. I am inspired by Alice’s words as well as the wonderful energy from the audience who are equally inspired and moved by the story that unfolds.
Hype Hair: You are very active in advancing BIPOC representation on Broadway through your work with Black Theatre United. Tell us a bit about the New Deal for Broadway initiative, and were there any challenges still present in 2021 to produce and stage the play?
LaChanze: I am incredibly proud to be a founding member of Black Theatre United. Our New Deal for Broadway is a sweeping initiative we created to take actionable steps towards a truly representative Broadway.
We are 100% committed to dismantling systemic racism through the power of our collective voice. We are actors, directors, musicians, writers, technicians, producers and represent all aspects of stage management – joining together to take our rightful place in the industry – both on- and off-stage.
I commend Roundabout Theatre Company – under the artistic direction of Todd Haimes – for its vision and commitment to giving a platform for works like Trouble in Mind to be seen and experienced by theater-goers of all backgrounds.
Roundabout is one of our longest-standing supporters and partners, and it’s great to be part of a company that reflects a true commitment to prioritizing and actively incorporating anti-racism, equity, diversity, inclusion and accountability throughout their institution.
Hype Hair: LaChanze, can you share your natural hair secrets? What do you do keep your hair healthy given the demands of your career?
LaChanze: Healthy hair is my number one priority. My hair is very fine, so with my job I need to be mindful of too much manipulation because it will cause breakage. As for routine, I’ve learned that the best moisture is water, in addition to oil, so I wet and condition my hair every other day.
I am passionate about supporting Black-owned, female hair care lines and my current favorites are: Nomadic Beauty International (especially ROUND TRIP their curling cream) and T. Roots.
Written by Alice Childress more than 60 years ago, Trouble in Mind has finally taken its rightful place in the history of American theater, and is a triumph. The limited-run show is playing now through June 9.
For tickets, visit https://www.roundabouttheatre.org/get-tickets/2021-2022-season/trouble-in-mind?promo=TIMHYPEHAIR and use code: TIMHYPEHAIR
