'Choir Boy' examines intimacy and friendship between Black teenagers

KUOW Arts and Culture reporter Mike Davis joined Soundside to share his experience with the play "Choir Boy," along with his interview with director Jamil Jude.

"Choir Boy" is a story about life and love through the relationships formed by a group of Black teenagers at Charles R. Drew College Preparatory Academy. The play follows Pharus, the openly gay lead of the school's storied choir, and the challenges he faces as he navigates life in a Christian prep school.

After the show, Mike Davis was able to talk to Kyle Ward, who plays Pharus' roommate and eventual best friend, AJ. The dynamic that plays out between Pharus and AJ on stage is a very important aspect of the story.

"I think this play, ultimately, is a play of love," Ward explained. "Love is shown in many different ways. But love is something that every single person in life needs, no matter how it may come, no matter the circumstances."

Davis also spoke to director Jamil Jude about his experience putting the play together.

"I want people to walk away with more desire to invest in the lives of Black boys," Jude said. "Let's create more spaces where, safely, Black boys can challenge the world around them. If we have more people who are invested in what happens next with our Black youth, we'll have a better society."

Listen to Mike Davis' full conversation with director Jamil Jude by clicking the audio above.