NYC director excited about 'Misunderstood' talent (Update)

TUESDAY, AUGUST 16: A group of talented teenagers are to perform a self-penned play, directed by a renowned New York City director.

Performing arts group Troika presents Misunderstood, featuring students aged 13 to 20.

Choreographer is Zalika Millet, music director is Leroy Francis and set artist is Ryan MacKeen.

The producers are Shoa Bean and Seldon Woolridge.

The director of Misunderstood is Larry Floyd, from New York City, US.

Mr Floyd told the Bermuda Sun he has enjoyed working with “wonderful” young Bermudians, who have impressed him with their talent and hard work.

He said: “I remember the first note that I wrote after I saw the auditions was, ‘Too much talent and not enough parts’. That’s always a good indication.

“We found a way to place most of the major talent and it’s been wonderful and very different, but excitingly so. The kids come in and most are ready to work.”

As for the themes behind the show, Mr Floyd said: “Some of the themes I think Shoa and Seldon set out, some of the things they wanted to talk about.

“We talked about graduation, gangs, the gap between adults and children, and children and children. There’s so much.”

Mr Floyd said the group also discussed the book The Tipping Point and the London riots.

‘They had some opinions about it (the riots). I think some of them think it’s going too far. Then we brought it back to Bermuda,” he said.

‘They definitely have opinions about gangs.”

Commenting on the teenagers, he said: ‘They have been very responsive even though sometimes the concept is a little over their heads.

“I have tried to treat these kids the same as Broadway stars. They try and they come to work every day.”

The students rehearse for four hours every night.

Mr Floyd said: “There’s some really good music and some really good choreography. It’s fun, it’s very entertaining.

“I think they (the audience) will be happy with the level that these kids have aspired to. These are the things they want to talk about. It’s like, ‘Here I am, this is what I want to say about this’.