Re: As Mentor to Katori Hall
Mentor Project 2006
My past year has been enriched by mentoring Katori Hall through the process of developing her gorgeously haunting play Hoodoo Love for a workshop production at the Cherry Lane Theatre. I was drawn to her work because of how it embraced the rich African American folk tradition, but from an entirely fresh and contemporary perspective. I found her to be an inventive and soulful writer, who was unafraid to tackle the darker more ticklish aspects of the African American experience. Throughout the process, I served as a sounding board, adviser and nurturing presence, helping her to move Hoodoo Love from the page to the stage. Katori was always open and eager to improve and explore her craft, and it was thrilling to watch as her play evolved and her voice became more confident with each passing day. Throughout the year we had lively conversation about life and art, and I believe that we’ve made a lasting friendship and an artistic connection.