Name: Amina Henry
Tell us about you.
I’m a writer and an educator and a fledgling runner. Like, I joined a running group. At the moment, I’m addicted to the tv shows House Hunters and Intervention.
Tell us about your current project?
Rent Party is a children’s show, or show for families, that I wrote with puppet theater company Drama of Works. Rent parties were what they sound like – parties thrown where people would pay a little fee for musical entertainment and refreshments to help renters pay their rent. They were popular in Harlem for a time in the early 1900s. The play follows a group of children in Harlem as they help prepare for the party their mothers are throwing that night. The play addresses real issues of poverty and racism, but does so in an accessible way. The puppet work is magic as are the performers.
Where are you performing your show and why is it a good fit for your production?
Rent Party is being performed at The Tank, July 12-21, Fri-Sun. I think The Tank’s a good fit for the show because The Tank embraces diversity and experimentation. It’s also close to several subway lines making it very accessible!
What’s next for you?
In October, my play The Johnsons goes up at JACK. It’s my real estate play, following a family as it deals with a foreclosure.
What is the name of the last show you saw?
Fairview
Any advice for your peers?
Keep doing your work, even when it’s hard. Especially when it’s hard.
Show Info:
When: July 12-21
Venue: The Tank
Tickets: $18/Adults $12 18 and under
