Cameron Holder, Raekwon Wilkes and De’Ja Mcintyre explore a dream sequence in the production “Marcus” at GPAC in September. PN Photo/Kia Wynne
By Kia Wynne
“Marcus,” or “The Secret of Sweet,” is part of a trilogy that follows Marcus as he develops his sexuality while trying to figure out his dreams and learn more about his father.
Marcus, who is played by Raekwon Wilkes, has two best friends: Osha, played by De’Ja Mcintyre, and Shaunta Iyun, played by Cameron Holder. Osha has a crush on Marcus, but while everyone suspects him to be homosexual, she has no clue.
There are some shocking moments where the audience discovers that Shua, who was played by Seonte McKeithan, is also dating Marcus’ best friend Osha after having sexual relations with Marcus. Wilkes had to step out of his comfort zone as a heterosexual male to get into the role of Marcus.
“It was an experience I will never forget. I think it is really big for somebody who’s not a theater major to get a big role,” Wilkes said.
The director of the play was Johnathan Drahos, who directed the past three plays of this trilogy. Drahos was a professional actor for many years before coming to UNCP. He performed on Broadway and off-Broadway. He performed in regional theaters and did some tours throughout his career. He has a master’s degree in fine arts and has a directing and acting Ph.D. in Shakespearean literature that he got in England.
As the play went on, the cast had to say stage directions, which is a theatrical device to break the fourth wall and bring the audience into the play. The play is meant to be spoken to the audience as a narrative.
The audience reacted to the play with laughter and was shocked by some of the moments.
After the play was over, the cast and crew had to strip down the stage to its original state since the theater doesn’t technically own the GPAC. Head stage manager Kenzie Chavis was in charge of every light, sound, and projection throughout the entire play.
The next play directed by Drahos will be “The Government Inspector,” performed this year and next year. There will also be a musical in collaboration with the music department.