What the Audience and Cast are Saying about Adjust Your Crown.

On April 18th, 2025, ShaVanety Jones and I performed Adjust Your Crown, an original piece of theater that I wrote and directed. In my last blog post, I invited audience members to share their feedback, and the comments have been a treat, so I figure they deserve a blog of their own! Plus, I am continuing my commitment to grow and archive the community response to my work.

"I loved this piece! I think many of us black women move around the world in the way that Keisha does. That behavior felt very warm, relatable, natural, and representative of a woman who is constantly trying to do it all. The character of Olivia was almost unsettling with the softness of her voice and the pacing of her speech. The juxtaposition between the two character's body language, dress, and delivery of the lines was important to the message. The idea of taking a real pause to celebrate ourselves and rest is easier said than done because it has to be done with intention. I feel like this piece illuminated that. It was a refreshing reminder.” - Veronica

"Incredible writing, Kenya! You are extremely talented, and I look forward to seeing more of your work in the near future. Your choosing ShaVanety as a co-star was an excellent choice! She’s a natural and really brought the character to life! Much success and congrats to you both! Can’t wait to see more!” - Aisha

“It was a fantastic set. I loved the commentary on current and past situations. Better than reality tv!” - J

"It was so empowering watching Kenya and ShaVanety perform Adjust Your Crown! The performance spoke on so many points that we have been going through for generations. With everything going on today it was good to come together and feel seen, understood, and empowered!” - Ruthanne

“I left with dry tears on my face feeling rested, inspired, and wanting to see more of the story.” - Kalvin

"It was so empowering watching Kenya and ShaVanety perform Adjust Your Crown! The performance spoke on so many points that we have been going through for generations. With everything going on today it was good to come together and feel seen, understood and empowered!” - Najaala

"Kenya has a lovely presence which resonates on stage. Adjust Your Crown is a thoughtfully penned piece, easily connected to as an audience member. It also sits as a reminder of the similarities we can have with strangers. In this case a comedian having a "bad set" is encouraged by an audience member to remember, she wears a crown. So always have pride, joy, and your heart in the things you do. Looking forward to the full play work.” - Akida

"I received a request to be cast as Keisha, and the role instantly resonated with me! Kenya’s words graced the pages like poetry. Kenya’s humor and intellect shined in this theater piece. The performance touches on common themes that are realities for black women in Tacoma. She tackled the impact of the 2024 presidential election results with tact. I felt honored to bring Keisha to life for Tacoma. The presence of black women in the crowd was powerful— I love how we show up for each other.” - ShaVanety Jones

“This was such a kind reminder on what generational trauma, and what rest can do for populations that historically have been forced to be unrested, whether it's revolutionary through capitalism or emotionally through systems of oppression. Thank you, Kenya, for reminding all of us to adjust our crowns in moments of distress, and the importance of experiencing joy whether it be through art or just rest. Amazing work, Kenya, keep it going!” - Sabrina

I am so grateful to everyone who came out to support and to all those who took the time to share their reflections on the artwork. Sometimes, I too find myself rushing through life like Keisha, not fully basking in the work I’ve already done. It’s a great reminder to pause and appreciate the journey. I’m so glad to hear that folks are excited to see more!

Here’s what I’m working towards: First, I am actively expanding Adjust Your Crown into a full-length play. Second, the play will be self-published, which is important to me so that it’s accessible in writing, before, during, and after the performance. Third, a world premiere of the full-length play! Amidst all of that, I still have to make a living, so I’ve got my work cut out for me. I plan to chronicle my experience of writing and self-publishing my first play, and you can follow the journey here on my blog or by subscribing to my monthly email newsletter. Additionally, ShaVanety and I will be sitting down for a conversation to record our thoughts and reflections, which I’m excited to share!

If you’d like to stay up to date, subscribe to my newsletter here, and feel free to share any thoughts or emojis in the comments below.

Peace and Afrofuturism,

Kenya 🛸