Sonjay Odds Productions began long before moving to Antioch. Sonjay’s roots began in Louisiana which set the foundation for her self discovery.
How did she get involved in directing, writing, and producing?
Her journey into the world of directing, writing, and producing began in her hometown of Louisiana. As a little girl, she loved bringing people together with her shows in the garage. Dance, acting, fashion - you name it, she did it. It was in these early moments that she discovered her love for the stage and the power of storytelling.
Can you tell us how you developed the play "The Cries of the Black Butterflies?"
One day, she decided to revisit a play she had created eight years ago called Cries of the Black Butterflies. The idea for the play came to her during a tough time in her life - when her father-in-law passed away. She envisioned butterflies as symbols of freedom, urging him to soar to heaven and embrace liberation. This became the heart of the play, a tribute to Black women's strength and resilience.
Cries of the Black Butterflies isn't just a play; it is a celebration of Black women. She wants to shine a spotlight on their often-overlooked contributions to society. Through storytelling, she aims to honor their journey, their struggles, and their triumphs.
How does Sonjay Odds pick cast members?
When it came to casting, she had a unique approach. She didn't just look for actors; she sought out entertainers - singers, dancers, rappers - who could add spontaneity into their performances. Social media and local networks became her tools for finding the perfect cast, ensuring a diverse and dynamic ensemble.
Tell us about how you got started with staging.
Staging a play was not easy, as she prioritized creativity and practicality. She turned to DIY solutions, using props and equipment that were both functional and visually striking. Her resourcefulness even led her to start a YouTube channel, sharing her staging tips with fellow creators during the pandemic.
What is the main takeaway that you want the audience to leave with from Cries of the Black Butterflies?
At its core, Cries of the Black Butterflies is about resilience and empowerment. She hopes that audiences will leave the theater feeling inspired and uplifted. She wants them to reflect on their own purpose in life and to find strength in their struggles, utilizing the blueprint left from the characters in the play.
Where can people watch your production?
For those eager to experience Cries of the Black Butterflies, the Nick Rodriguez Community Center Theater in Downtown Antioch is the place to be, 213 F Street. With showtimes at 1:30 pm and 5:30 pm on Saturday, March 2nd, tickets are available online at www.sonjayoddsproductions.com. It is a unique chance to celebrate the resilience and beauty of Black women from Sonjay Odds Productions. Make sure you secure your tickets before they sell out!
Be sure to check out her Instagram at @sonjayodds and Facebook page at Sonjay Odds Productions!