Behind the Script

• Lakeetha Blakeney is an artist, author, and educator of many talents.  

• She acts, writes, directs, and teaches others about the joys and power of theatre. She has worked with children of different ages and backgrounds, and she is passionate about representing their stories in her books and on stage.

• She is also the founder and director of Redeeming History Productions, a production company that creates work celebrating "the marginalized global majority." (quoted from her website: keethab.com -- you can learn more about her books and other work here)

• Princess Fearless is based on the playwright's own children's books, Princess Fearless: Walking to School and Princess Fearless: Liz's Double Dutch Dilemma. (these can also be purchased on her website)

  • According to Keetha, this show, "was birthed out of COVID. ...It gave me purpose again, gave me something to work on."

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• During the rehearsal process, Keetha was able to talk to the cast and dramaturgs, offering more information about herself, the world of the play, and its characters:

  • A favorite quote of hers from the script is when Vovó (Portuguese for Grandma) tells Liz, 
    "When I tell you to always be fearless, it doesn't mean you won't ever be afraid. It means even though you are scared, you do it anyway."

  • Keetha also spoke about how she aims to lead, "with love and compassion," and to, "extend grace to herself and others." Her characters reflect this beautifully!

  • Speaking of characters, Keetha reflected on Lou in a special way, "Lou is basically me. I was a scared kid who grew up to be a scared adult. …Now I’m kind of stepping out there and being more bold. ...Lou is learning what it means to be fearless, learning what it means to be courageous. They're all learning that. ...Do it scared and see where you come out on the other end."

• The cast and dramaturgs also heard more about Keetha's heart for Theatre for Young Audiences (TYA). For any artist out there who may be involved in working with kids or performing for them, here is a bit of wisdom she imparted to the cast: "From artist to artist, find what the truth is, and just tell them that.”