B-CU Students Produce Award Winning Play "HEAVY"

The LaDoris McClaney School of Performing Arts & Communications Presents “Heavy”

Written by B-CU Student Denzel Smith

DAYTONA BEACH, FL- “HEAVY” is a full-length student managed production that was featured on the campus of Bethune-Cookman University from November 18-21, 2019 in the Richard V. Moore Black Box Theater. This production followed the dysfunctional King family as they maneuvered through life and addressed serious and frequently discussed topics such as: molestation, homosexuality and religion. The production was originally written as a one-act production at Alabama State University in 2017. The writer and producer, who are students at B-CU, Denzel Smith and Nia McConico were able to transform this one-act production and provided an entertaining yet meaningful experience that kept the audience on their toes and wanting more. 

The goal of the production was to, “create a voice for the voiceless,” and Smith and McConico did just that.  With rehearsals beginning in September, the cast had approximately less than two months until show time. Through hard work and dedication the production demonstrated many talents of Bethune-Cookman University students acting to scenic construction. 

JaTyler Gary was cast as the father and husband Christopher King Sr. in the production. He expressed, “I would like the audience to realize the importance of self-reflection while watching the play. “There are always two sides to a story, in this case, five. You never know a person’s story until you get a chance to actually sit and speak with the person,” he added. 

Congratulations to all of the students and staff members who were featured and assisted with the production of HEAVY. The University is excited to see more from the Dr. La-Doris McClaney School of Performing Arts and Communication.