Taylor Bembery
Associate Editor
“Mrs. Independent”, the thought provoking play based on a true story by Priest Tyaire, took the audience on an emotional journey Oct. 17-18 at the Thalia Mara Hall in Jackson, Miss.
The adult admission price for a floor seat was $43.50. Even though the ticket was a little pricey the seats were great because the theatre was an intimate size compared to larger orchestra halls.
Tyaire both wrote and starred in the drama as Trey Brown. Trey is the emasculated husband of Carleena “Mrs. Independent” Osborne, a successful lawyer played by actress Robin Givens. Initially from hearing the voices on the radio ads for the play, I would have never thought that Robin Givens was Mrs. Independent but once the play started it was a dead giveaway.
The opening scene is inside of Carleena Osborne’s house, and it is clear that it is ‘her’ home with a huge headshot portrait over the fire place mantle. Osborne has no problem reminding her husband who really wears the pants in the relationship, even in the first scene. Trey takes care of all house duties as far as cooking, cleaning, taking care of their daughter Mekhai, and even surprising his wife with flowers; but it still isn’t enough for Mrs. Independent.
Carleena’s idea of a man is someone that makes more money than her or matches her six figure salary income. The first scene ends with Trey and Carleena getting into an argument about her not ‘taking care of home’ and spending more time with her family instead of being in the office. Her feisty attitude lets Trey know that her income is “taking care of home” and the scene ends.
Later in the play you are introduced to Carleena’s mother, Victoria, played by Dottie Peoples. She completely despises Trey and Mekhai because Mekhai is not Carleena’s biological daughter. She insists that Carleena kicks her husband out of the house and she follows her mother’s instruction. Victoria has a wicked hidden agenda throughout the entire play and it sure left the audience in complete shock.
The father and daughter connection of Troy and Mekhai is something that stands out throughout the entire play. The fate of Mekhai’s health is what ultimately restores the marriage of Troy and Carleena. This play evoked all emotions; it will make you laugh, cry, maybe even dance. The live instrumentation and vocals were on point.
At the end of the play, Priest Tyaire shared his very inspirational testimony as of how he started writing plays. He dedicates all his shows to his parents that both passed away from cancer. He leaves two seats in the front row filled with roses to commemorate their life.
What made the “Mrs. Independent” play experience more fulfilling was the entire cast did a meet and greet with the audience following the performance.
If you missed the play in Jackson, don’t despair; the play is on the road to other cities. You can check out upcoming dates at www.mrsindependenttheplay.com
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