Several months ago, Rashawd Ford approached the Plaza Arts Center staff with the idea of putting on a show himself. It took some time, but between budget meetings, marketing meetings, and figuring out a schedule, The Plaza and Ford developed a plan together.
The Plaza is proud to present its new Young Director Series, debuting Feb. 22-23 and, 27-28, and March 1, 2025. Ford will direct The Color Purple, written by Eatonton’s own Alice Walker.
“I am from Eatonton, born and raised, and I am deeply honored and excited to direct The Color Purple,” Ford said. “This is a powerful story that has always resonated with me on a personal level. As a director, I approach this work not only as a creative opportunity but as a handle exploration of themes that shape our lives, family, identity, and the healing power of community.”
When Ford came to The Plaza asking to do this production, the staff was ready to figure out how to make it happen.
When trying something new, there are always opportunities to explore something that hasn’t been done before. This will be the first time a young thespian has taken the helm as director at The Plaza.
“The Color Purple is particularly exciting for us at The Plaza because it is so meaningful for our town,” said Dr. Susan Usry, executive director at The Plaza. “Added to that is the fact that we get to showcase one of our own Broadway Intensive cast members as the director. That’s a win-win for us at The Plaza.”
While not professionally working as a director, Ford has had a wide array of theater experiences. He started in theater as a high school freshman, which sparked a passion for storytelling and the transformative power of performance. Over the years, he has worked in various capacities and performed in many different shows, including several Broadway Intensive programs with The Plaza and The Arts Barn.
He most recently directed school productions of Matilda, Godspell, Annie, Jr., The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, and The Addams Family. Ford also has performed in the ensemble for Aurora Theater’s production of The Color Purple.
“ The Color Purple is more than a historical story; it is a story of universal themes, particularly the ways in which trauma and triumph ripple across generations,” Ford explained. “By creating an environment where these stories are brought to life with honesty and integrity, I hope to spark conversations within our community about our shared struggles and the beauty in our collective adaptability.”
When she wrote The Color Purple, Walker had no idea how impactful her storytelling would be. It won her a Pulitzer Prize for her stance against racism and sexism, and Walker’s legacy continues to impact generation after generation.
“My goals in theater are to create work that is both inspiring and emotionally resonant work,” Ford said. “Particularly work that elevates marginalized voices and illuminates the complexities of human experience.
“I have always believed that the theater is a space for connection, where the boundaries between performer and audience create a collective moment of reflection. I strive to continue cultivating these moments, where empathy, and understanding can flourish."
Planning a meaningful performance, The Plaza and Ford are thrilled to be hosting auditions soon. There is an open casting call for five female leads, three male leads, eight female ensemble members, and 10 male ensemble members.
People wanting to audition must email a virtual audition to auditions@theplazaartscenter.com by Dec. 10. This email must include the role auditioning for, a headshot, a resume, and a video performing a song no shorter than one minute.
In-person callbacks will be Dec. 14-15. The cast will be announced by Dec. 17, and rehearsals will begin soon after.
For more information, call The Plaza at 706-9231655 or email moreinfo@theplazaartscenter.com.
“I believe theater has the power to heal, and I want this production to invite audiences to reflect on their own experiences, encouraging both empathy and empowerment,” Ford said.