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Hillside High Acting Troupe Speak Their Truth In New Video “Being Black In America”

Phyllis Coley @phyllis_coley

Durham, NC – Current and former members of One Voice, Durham Hillside High School’s premier acting troupe, came together to speak their truths in this powerful new video titled “Being Black in America.” The video was made in response to the recent killings of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor. Watch the video below:

One Voice is the voice of youth empowerment. It’s committed to creating new works that speak to today’s issues. Currently, the nation is faced with several major issues. One Voice members are staying true to its mission by addressing these issues through written and spoken dialogue.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, members of the troupe have used technology to present their acting skills and talents. The actor’s voice continues to be heard even during the pandemic.

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Hillside One Voice Acting Troupe (2018), many of whom participated in the video, are pictured with Principal Dr. William Logan, DPS Superintendent Dr. Pascal Mubenga, and Hillside Dir. of Theatre Wendell Tabb.

The video  “Being Black in America” was used on July 22, 2020, in a virtual professional development workshop viewed by over 150 judges participating from all over the state of California.

The California Judges Association has a Diversity and Inclusion Committee which started a new discussion series, Unscripted Conversations on Diversity and Inclusivity: What It Means to Us on and Off the Bench.  The video “Being Black in America” was used in their first conversation in the series entitled: “How Current Demonstrations and Protests Are Impacting and Shaping Conversations about Diversity and Inclusivity.”  

The video was played during the conversation to illustrate the “why behind the what” for the demonstrations across the country. The Honorable Judge Rupert A. Byrdsong said the video was well received and greatly appreciated by the viewers.

Young people today are speaking truth to power…..Hillside’s One Voice Acting Troupe is leading the way.

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Hillside’s One Voice Acting Troupe has performed across the globe from China to Australia. (submitted)

Over the years, the group has performed several theatrical pieces called “Peace”, “See Me”, “Wake Up” and “We Matter.”  The pieces navigate in a circular manner from the present to the past and encompass the trials and tribulations of the African American culture today.  The words, songs, and movements embody the essence of the culture that is deeply rooted in American history.

One Voice has performed in Havana, Cuba;  Beijing, China; Sydney, Australia; Nairobi, Kenya; Jufureh, Gambia; London, England; Osaka, Japan; Lima, Peru; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Santa Cruz, California; Los Angeles, California, and New York City;  as well as many other states, churches, colleges, and universities, including Duke University and The University of North Carolina at Pembroke.  One Voice was scheduled to perform in St. Lucia during the month of April 2020, but due to COVID-19 had to cancel.  

For more information on ONE VOICE ACTING TROUPE, please contact the Hillside Director of Theatre Wendell Tabb: Email: Wendell.tabb@dpsnc.net;  (919) 906-0840 (cell).