BIO
Janelle is an interdisciplinary artist that investigates the depth of strength with stories that explore the complex layers of perspective. They have had their musicals presented at various Theaters such as The Kennedy Center, Legoland New York, Joe’s Pub, Seattle Public Theater, and National Black Theatre. They have been residents of the 92nd St Y Musical Theatre Development Lab: Collective, Greenhouse Residency SPACE on Ryder Farm, and Barn Arts Hamilton Project Resident. They are a Juilliard School Evening Division alumni, and a 2020 & 2022 Recipient of NBT's Soul Series Lab -Playwriting Micro-Development Session. www.janellelawrence.com
The Black Sexual Revolution
Funny how the first time you say no, you can almost taste the air in the room.
He had been there many times before the place I called him a couch that still exists. I
don't know if that was the last time he was there.
Don't get distracted. Don't shy away.
No. No, it was always a no until it wasn't. I am the fastest on my softball team, the
fiercest mama bear on my volleyball team, but then
you are allowed to be weak. It doesn't
mean anyone should take advantage of you.
Now I know we're looking back at the past, right?
The gaps
That was the first time, at least I know the first time,
the second time
A slip into a drink
A drink in my teammate’s dorm
A birthday - A party - A group of people no one knew
filling in the gaps, by myself
Waking up and asking questions
Where is my -
How did I -
in the black sexual revolution, it's about radical complexity. The radical complexity of
honesty, recognizing the trauma that has happened to me and my ancestors.