Theater Spotlight of the Week: Akin Babatunde

by Shawn Parikh

New interview with director of Blue at Jubilee Theatre.

Internationally renowned director, Akin Babatunde, is directing Jubilee Theatre’s newest production, Blue. It is the perfect week to feature him since previews are just about to begin.

We start off by talking about his beginning in theater and what got him started. He talks about the obstacles he had to overcome with people saying he would never be on stage because of the color of his skin.

I ask how he got involved with Jubilee Theatre and what attracted him to this piece. He talks about the significance of this piece to the African-American culture and clarifies how music plays a part in this show, but it should not be termed a musical.

As always, I ask what he wants the audience to walk away with after seeing the show. I ask about his next project and where he is traveling, and he ends by discussing the importance of Jubilee Theatre in the DFW community.

Blue previews May 16, 17, 18, and 22 for $10. The show opens May 23 and through June 15, 2008 for $14-20. Performances are Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings at 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday matinees at 3 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online or by calling 817-338-4411.