Most of the time, our ventures into escapism are little more than temporary relief from the worries and woes of modern life. Producers with deep pockets and writers with more marketing smarts than talent have made millions dolling out fluffy respite from reality. We tend to lap it up like so much rich milk. Even the brightest and best among us are not immune to the call of mindless entertainment (project runway, anyone?). But while empty escapism reigns – sometimes out of necessity in our fast-paced and weary lives – a fiction that tells the truth can provide so much more than a simple, fleeting bite of release. For playwright and novelist Pearl Cleage, art that reflects life and trains the lens of honesty over a story is a reward for both her and her loyal fans. Taste the truth firsthand alongside the woman herself; join Cleage at The Playhouse tomorrow afternoon at 2pm for a free book signing and presentation highlighting her work and vision.
Based in Atlanta, Pearl Cleage has been an awarded artist of both stage and pen for over 20 years. Praised for her complex characterizations and unadulterated views of life, Cleage has won the approval of both fans and critics alike. Her first play, Flyin’ West, was the most produced new play in the country after its debut in 1992, the first of six widely acclaimed plays of her career. Cleage’s first novel, What Looks Like Crazy On An Ordinary Day, was a selection in Oprah’s Book Club and spent nine weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. Cleage is also the author of six additional printed works, including the awarded I Wish I Had a Red Dress and her latest novel, Seen It All and Done the Rest.
Sponsored by the University of Louisville College of Arts and Sciences, Cleage will appear at The Playhouse tomorrow, December 2nd, at 2pm for an afternoon of insight into her work and inspiration. Cleage’s presentation on her work is free and open to the public, and she will also be available for signatures afterward. Bundle up, head out and trade in your next mindless afternoon for a rich look at life.
The Playhouse is located at 1911 S. Third St
For more information contact Marian Vasser at (502) 852-2252 or mrvass01@louisville.edu
Photo: Courtesy of Pearl Cleage’s website www.pearlcleage.net
