I’ve Cried The Blues Play | Dennis Williams, Candiace Dillard Bassett, Darrel Walls, Karen Linette

I’ve Cried the BluesCast & Creative TeamGuests: Dennis Williams, Candiace Dillard Bassett, Darrel Walls, Karen LinetteWelcome to the show. This production carries history, music, pain, and triumph. For each of you—what was the first feeling you had when you became part of I’ve Cried the Blues?This story is set in 1945 Little Rock, but the themes still feel current. Why does this story matter in 2026?The cast talked about some aspects of the play that audiences would love to hear more about!:Dennis Williams:Dennis, what truth were you trying to tell when you first created this story?Mattie is fighting for freedom in every sense. Was she inspired by women you’ve known or women history often overlooks?Darrel Walls:Darrel, you’ve moved audiences through music for years. How different is it when music must now advance a character’s pain, love, and survival on stage?Candiace Dillard Bassett:Candiace, people know you from television and music, but theater asks for a different kind of vulnerability. What has this experience unlocked in you?Karen Linette:Karen, with your incredible range and experience, how do you use your voice not just to sing—but to tell truth?This phenomenal play leaves us with questions to take back with us:One word that describes this production?One lesson this story teaches?One reason everyone needs to experience this live?What are you most proud of in this moment?Instagram:@denniscre8ts@musiqcity@therealcandiace@reanlinetteofficial@jamir_smithJamirSmith.comYouTube:Jamir_smith