Twenty-something Leona Pierre is stepping out on a limb: She is trying to change Boston’s fashion and nightlife scene all while paying homage to the arts.
The Northeastern graduate and Brookline resident co-founded Urban Fresh, an entertainment, fashion and lifestyle collective comprised of PR types, fashion forward stylists and community advocates. The group seeks to connect the dots between fashion and social consciousness through unique events. Their last effort, “Futuristic Soul: Novacane” at the Milky Way last week featured Wu-Tang Clan’s hook singing Tekitha, a poet and Boston’s own Agari Crew.
But tomorrow night, Pierre has something in store for theater lovers. The audience at Hibernian Hall will get to see Pierre’s work as a first time producer at the play “For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When The Rainbow Is Enuf” written by Ntozake Shange. Shange’s seminal work is a painful and delicate literary dance that sheds light on what it means to be colored and to be a woman.
“She packs so much into these little poems,” Pierre said. “I love how it makes me feel.”
In the book, Shange’s poetry comes alive through the women who recite each piece. Clad in colors of the rainbow plus the color brown, the women talk about sexual assault, joy, betrayal and love’s burden.
“When I read the lady in red’s poem I was in utter disbelief. It’s rare that people capture the weight of emotions in words,” Pierre said.
Though the material covered in the play is heavy, Pierre believes the creative touches she’s added will help keep the dialogue from weighing the audience down.
“I think the music will help lighten the mood,” she said. “I’ve got a drummer and a singer that will be the fabric that weaves all the stories together.”
The young Haitian producer — who has a background in communications and a deep appreciation for the arts — didn’t mess with the original too much.
“Aside from a bit of outdated jargon, I didn’t have to replace much or overhaul it to make it modern,” she said. “It’s a universal, timeless work. Everyone can relate to losing their virginity, being in love or being hurt.”
In addition to the performance, Pierre offers other visual stimulation at the venue. Artist Joel Luis will display his portraits of important women in history such as Nina Simone and Angela Davis as well as women who were integral in his life.
Despite the impeding premier, Pierre seems unfazed by her newest undertaking.
“It’s a challenge, but it’s a challenge that I find fun,” Pierre shared. “Plus, doing this is a way for me to give back. I think it’s important to give back.”
“For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When The Rainbow Is Enuf” starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25 at the door, $20 in advance and $15 for students. Call 617-541-3900 for more information.
