There’s No Stopping to My Thoughts is a community-based, script-in-hand, interactive theatrical experience inspired by the life and aspirations of self-taught visionary artist Leon Kennedy. A 75-year-old black man who paints prodigiously on anything, Leon has called Oakland home for more than half a century, and strives towards painting a mural in the city. A long-time friend’s betrayal and a fellow artist’s conflicting aesthetics leaves him running in place, struggling to survive in a new economy where his gift remains in the shadows. Actors will largely be members of the community. The fictionalized script is informed by firsthand narratives collected from story circles held at OACC, and conversations with Leon Kennedy and his community. The play will be followed by a community panel discussion around key themes involving the play creators and various community partners.
Playwright: Bonnie Wai-Lee Kwong
Director: Michael Mansfield
Producers: Bonnie Wai-Lee Kwong, Cleavon Smith and Michael Mansfield
Art Exhibition Curator: Cleavon Smith
Presented by the Oakland Asian Cultural Center as part of its Artist In Residence program.
