TLT, a production troupe founded by actor/singer/musician Tre’von Griffith and playwright Lauron Thompson, will present ‘Voices: Sounds of America’ from January 13-16 at The Marcelle Theatre in Grand Center.
‘Voices,’ a musical montage written by Thompson and Griffith, is a collection of monologues and songs that aim to bridge the gap between young and old, educate and inspire. The monologues and songs inspired by youth in St. Louis bring to life issues of race, self-esteem, identity and body image. Thompson and Griffith will star in the production as well – alongside theater favorite, Alicia Revé Like and newcomer Timmy Howard II.
Both Griffith and Thompson have extensive experience on the St. Louis theatre scene in numerous capacities by way of The Black Rep, Encore Theatre Group, STAGES St. Louis, Pianos for People, Kingdom House and others.
TreG recently served as the Special Projects coordinator at The Black Rep, and has launched his solo music career after releasing an EP and opening for Grammy nominated artists, Andra Day and Corinne Bailey Rae in October. Thompson is currently an Artist in Residence at Saint Louis Story Stitchers as a playwright.
With TLT, their intention is to create quality stage productions that speak to their generation.
“The goal of TLT is to be a catalyst for original entertainment highlighting theater and music from young artists in St. Louis,” said Griffith. “We want to create a strong sense of community in this growing and artistically thriving city by providing young artists a platform for new works partnering with local artists and groups of every discipline.”
TLT Productions is a participant in the .ZACK Performing Arts Incubator in Grand Center.
‘Voices’ serves as the kick off for TLT’s first season – which includes a total of four shows (“Godspell” (April 14-16), “Tangled” (July 14-16) and “The Wiz” (October 5-8)) and continues through October.
In addition to the stage shows, TLT will also include special showcases and concerts – which will be announced at a later date.
“We are so excited about this amazing opportunity to share our work with the community on a consistent basis and thank The Kranzberg Foundation for making dreams possible,” Thompson said. “We have an exciting, bold year of entertainment planned with literally something for everyone.”
VOICES: Sounds of America will premiere January 13-16 at the Marcelle Theater in Grand Center. Show times are at 8pm, January 13-14 and 3pm, January 15-16. Tickets are $15- $10 and are now available at MetroTix outlets, metrotix.com or by calling 314-534-1111.
