She is the single mom trying to raise a family on her own. He is the husband and father who has to tell his family that he’s been laid off from his job. And he’s the son with big dreams of a singing career.
Zakiya Williams is the one who decided to tell their stories.
A FAMU alumna is returning to campus, but this time instead of taking a seat inside the classroom, she is taking her place on stage.
Actress, poet, author and dancer, Williams, along with Eagles Soar Productions presents “Love Costs! Will You Pay the Price?,” a play about relationships, love and life.
Williams, who wrote and directed the play is no stranger to the stage.
She has appeared in productions such as Tyler Perry’s “Madea’s Family Reunion” and Fred Hammond’s “Been There, Done That.” She has also appeared in movies such as “The Fighting Temptations,” “Pandora’s Box” and “Chocolate City.”
Williams said she is excited about bringing the play to the University.
“So far, the play has been successful, but Tallahassee will be our first major venue,” she said. “We’re looking forward to coming.”
According to Williams, “Love Costs!” centers around real life situations.
“The play deals with different aspects of relationships and the challenges that each of these relationships may face, whether it be problems with friends, relatives or those within the individual,” she said.
Although the play tackles serious issues, Williams promises there is much more to the play to keep the audience entertained.
With comical skits, singing from popular R&B artists and cameo appearances from leaders within the Tallahassee community, “Love Costs!” offers something for everyone.
“This play is different from the norm …very unique,” said Kendra Butler, the play’s assistant director. “It provides a different way of looking at things. We have a talented group of actors. The singing and acting is tremendous.”
Butler, who performed in the play “Love Don’t Live Here Anymore,” is playing the role of Velda in “Love Costs!” said the show is definitely something everyone should come out to see.
“There’s a lot of laughter. There are situations in the play that will make people think to themselves, ‘I’ve been there, I can relate to that.’ Not to mention that we have Lil’ G, from Silk as part of our cast,” she said.
Silk’s Gary Jenkins, or “Lil G,” said he is looking forward to coming to Tallahassee.
The former Tennessee State University student said he remembers traveling to FAMU during rivalry games and added that the play will be something new and refreshing for the students.
“This is a reality-based play. It is about things that happen in everyday life. When you leave, you’ll leave learning something,” he said.
Members of the cast credited Williams for her hard work and dedication.
“She’s awesome and she has a great spirit,” said cast-member, Natalia Gaston. “She inspired me to be a part of this.
“(Williams) has a beautiful personality,” agreed Myron Kryse, who is also a member of the cast. “She really knows her craft, but she remains humble at the same time.”
Williams said “Love Costs!” is not only a cultural experience but is also a ministry.
Williams added that the play provides entertainment outside of parties and clubs, “a Christian form of art that everyone can learn and benefit from.”
“Love Costs! Will You Pay the Price?” will be performed in Lee Hall at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturday and at 5 p.m. on Sunday.
Cameo appearances will be made by Pastor Calvin McFadden of Community of Faith Church on Saturday at the 8 p.m. show, and another by Pastor Walter Stanley of Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church during Sunday’s show.
The show is admittance with a ticket only. Ticket outlets include Settles Beauty Supply and Community of Faith Church. Prices start at $18 and vary depending on show times.
For more information, call 878-8658.
Contact Tiffany Pitts at pittstiffany@hotmail.com.