Alpha Phi Alpha, Inc. held a gospel play titled, “Are You Listening?” on Jan. 26 at 7:06 p.m. in the Opal Johnson Smith Auditorium. Samuel Robinson, a grad student here at Prairie View A&M University, wrote the play. The talented cast played characters that were all unique, including the hilarious Uncle Cledius played by PVAMU alumnus Phillip Wade, who was consistently a riot throughout the entire production. Developmental math instructor Karen Bradford, Department of Academic Enhancement, sang after Simeon Queen, PVAMU alumnus, opened up the event with prayer.
“Are You Listening?” bringing a full house, showed how God works in mysterious ways, using the Dr. Richard White, acted by Robinson himself, and his death to bring grad student Will Stinson’s character Timothy, the late doctor’s brother who spent 10 years in prison for a crime that he and his brother committed, back to God.
Timothy kills his brother because he is resentful that the doctor gave him up to authorities and leaving him to do time in prison. Once the doctor dies, Timothy and the newly widow Naomi, played by PVAMU alumna Jereme Gant, date a mere two days after the doctor’s death. Timothy eventually moves into the doctor’s home and begins to throw his weight around, and even makes advances toward senior business management Sheree White’s character Rachel, the doctor’s daughter. The father around this time comes back and finds out from the very unusual angel, Mr. PVAMU Oba Woodyard, that he has died and is now his daughter’s guardian angel.
Rachel puts all the pieces together, discovering the truth about her father’s death. She later calls for reinforcement, seeking Uncle Cledius’ help. But in the end, Rachel never has to say a word, as Timothy is affected by his brother’s sudden appearance. The doctor convinces his brother to do what is right and repent for all that he has done. And he does, confessing everything to the police and turning himself and Naomi in.
There were a couple of performances in-between scenes. One of the PV Mimes lifted many spirits within the auditorium as he mimed on stage. Afterward was Louisiana State University graduate and up and coming gospel artist Cephas A. Riggins, who told of how he survived a terrible freak accident when a tractor ran over him twice, Riggins then offered to help anyone who wanted to get into the music industry after the show.
When asked why he extended the offer, “Coming up I didn’t have that opportunity,” said Riggins after the play was over, “In the 90s we were all fighting to get noticed.” Currently Riggins works with Sharp Records, Inc. who not only produces gospel, but R&B, rock, country, and neo-soul. “I actually go and find artists. I like to extend [the opportunity] to upcoming artists.” Riggins has been singing for 33 years and ministering for 23 years.
Wade said his reason for doing the play was “to show that there are many different ways for Prairie View students to display their talents and gifts.”
Robinson thought the show was a success despite a few malfunctions with props. Others were also in agreement with him, “I thought it was a great play. It was innovative and a unique form of entertainment,” said former Student Government Association president Andre Evans, “It allows students to experience the theatrical side. The message was awesome. It energizes you spiritually and it also takes a lot to make this happen.”
“I think this is a very good thing for the students,” said Bradford, “To have everyone in one place without fighting, joined together under the presence of God.”