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Greetings, Family-

And Happy New Year! For Restoration Stage, the advent of 2010 has particular significance. We embrace it not only as the start of a new decade but as a time to recommit ourselves to our mission: “to restore the Black family-one story at a time.”

The last decade was rife with complex challenges. The impact of the global recession, while felt by all, has exacerbated many of the problems African-Americans face in our communities. And while issues of race and identity have been dissected and explored in new ways recently-something seems to be missing. All you have to do is listen to the radio…

A few years ago, I was driving to work at the Ellington School; ready to teach my third period Harlem Renaissance class when a song on the radio stopped me cold. “…Gator boots, with the pimped out Gucci suit; ain't got no job, but I'm still fly!”

I literally had to pull over to the side of the road.

Then, I called my Grandmother. Throughout my life she had given me much sage advice, but her frequent reiteration of a particular adage seemed pointedly on target that day. As a kid, I once dreamed a world of ‘Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous.’ But, this concept never seemed to impress my Grandmother. She always wanted to talk character, compassion, and faith. She knew in her heart that “all that glitters isn’t gold.”

ALL THAT GLITTERS-the title of our new show. Steven is back with a hilarious and heart-wrenching script about what it takes for four women at the top to figure that out. Chris has composed the most passionate music of his life for the journey. In these times when so much is uncertain and celebrity is the only cache’, “ALL THAT GLITTERS” offers a dialogue about what’s truly important-and a road map to getting us back on track.

I URGE you to see this show! It’s about embracing the values that have always sustained our people through the lean times. It’s about reconnecting with our families-and our faith. Join me and an extraordinary cast of actors, singers, and dancers as we take a look at who we are today. I think you will join me in applauding what they seek to say. I look forward to seeing you at the show.

All My Best,
Courtney

OUR COMPANY

Restoration Stage, Inc. is an independent theatre production company that targets the Black urban theatre audience and produces, markets and sells popular theatre productions under the Restoration Stage, Inc. brand.

OUR MISSION

Following the principles of Augusto Boal and his Theatre of the Oppressed, the core focus of Restoration Stage, Inc. is to develop new artists and present themes that positively impact the Black family. Through the production, direction, and/or development of these artists and themes, Restoration Stage seeks to contribute to the on-going dialogue about how to improve the condition of the Black family in American society.

BUSINESS SUMMARY

Comprised of three primary divisions: script development, theatre and music production and educational/community outreach, Restoration Stage, Inc. earns most of its' revenue from the actual sale of theatre tickets. Additionally, Restoration Stage, Inc. creates and licenses audio and audiovisual work for manufacturing as Restoration Records.

Partnering with numerous community organizations, Restoration Stage, Inc. is a dynamic bridge giving voice to emerging artists whose work reflects the struggles and triumphs of Blacks across the diaspora.

David Lamount Wilson is a veteran actor of the DC area. David was last seen in the Smithsonian touring production of Black Diamond. Favorite productions include roles in The Oedipus Plays at The Shakespeare Theatre, Heaven and Big Love for the Wolly Mammoth Theatre Company, American Buffalo, Inns & Outs and Edmond at Source Theatre. His resume also includes productions at Arena Stage, Olney Theatre, and the Folger Shakespeare Theatre, as well as a featured role on NBC's award winning Homocide: Life On the Streets and HBO's The Wire.