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Meet Eric Lockley!

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Feature, Latest | by — May 5, 2014

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Rising performer/playwright ERIC LOCKLEY is quickly becoming a leader among a new generation of artists, bringing stories about the African-American community to the stage. Lockley starred in the Denver Center Theatre Company’s world premiere of Marcus Gardley’s new play “BLACK ODYSSEY,” which ran through January 17 through February 16, 2014.  He is now teaming up with MPAACT Theater Company in Chicago for the premiere of his original play, “WITHOUT TRACE,” at the Greenhouse Theater which launched in April.

This Randallstown, Maryland native is a graduate of NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts with a BFA and a double major in Africana Studies. He is aperformer, playwright and producer within The Movement Theatre Company and the producing collective, Harlem 9. As a Performer his Stage credits include “CATO” (The Flea), “Holes” (Atlantic Thtr Co.), “The Winter’s Tale” (NYU), “Black Terror” (NYU), “SPUNK” (Penobscot) and “CHAINS,” performed in South Africa. Lockley also appeared on MTV’s television pilot “Failosophy,” a half-hour, studio-based panel show featuring the internet’s biggest fails.

Lockley’s talents have earned him the Theatre Hall of Fame Fellowship Grant 2012, National Theatre Conference Emerging Professional Award 2012, Harlem Stage Fund for New Work Grant 2011, Mabou Mines Resident Artist 2009-2010 and Poets & Writers Grant 2009.

 

Eric Lockley - Cold Keener

Let’s get to know Eric a little better…

You’ve recently starred in the hit play “Black Odyssey” at the Denver Center Theatre, what motivated to step into the world of acting?

I’ve been a performer since I was very young, but my attraction to acting came about in a unique way. For a little bit as a kid I was REALLY into the world of espionage. I loved the idea of becoming a spy. Around that phase in my life, Tom Cruise’s “Mission Impossible” movie was released, and upon seeing that film I had the realization “be a spy without the danger; just be an actor!”  From then on I just wanted to be an actor.

 Being an young actor you are constantly juggling responsibilities that can sometimes be a bit overwhelming. How do you regroup and motivate yourself when you’re feeling a little defeated?

 As an actor it’s important to stay feeling empowered because oftentimes you may feel like you’re constantly being rejected. One of the most important things is surrounding yourself with a positive and supportive community of friends and family. Another thing that I really advocate is for actors to have other means of exerting their creative energy. So in addition to auditioning and booking acting gigs, start a blog and write regularly, or work with a local theater company on projects, or even join a bowling league. Dedicate time between auditioning and your “survival job” (temping, catering, hotel or restaurant jobs) to doing something you love besides acting that is fun; and do it on a regular basis. It ensures you have something to look forward to beyond “waiting for your big break”.
Eric Lockley - Underbelly

We tend to pull characteristics from others in our lives or from people we admire, who inspires you and why?

So many people inspire me.  Two of my biggest inspirations throughout my life have been Michael Jackson and Sammy Davis Jr. What I admire most about each of them is that they dreamed big and had an uncompromising work ethic. They were both consummate performers – acting, singing, dancing – they could do it all. They captivated audiences at every moment. This is the type of performer I aim to be. And when I consider the barriers that these black men broke down using their talents and their ambition, I’m reminded that with a lot of heart, smarts and talent, ANYTHING is possible.

We’re excited to see you continue to achieve all your goals! What projects can we expect from you in the near future?

 I’m an actor, writer and producer, which can be both challenging and rewarding. Nevertheless, I’m excited that my next project will showcase my writing.

In April, a play I’ve written entitled “Without Trace” will have its world premiere in Chicago as a part of MPAACT Theater’s season. The
play is a conspiracy theory drama that takes place in the future and follows an inner-city family in the midst of a crumbling America. When
a lost son returns home with a case of amnesia, his family is left to wonder, “What happened to Trace?”

If any readers live in the Chicago area please check the play out. For more info visit: www.mpaact.org And, to stay up to date with what I’m
doing readers can visit my website: www.ericlockley.com

Eric Lockley - Last Laugh

What advice would you give teens who want to follow their dreams and passions?

I’d say don’t worry about fitting in with everyone. What makes you a “nerd” or “weirdo” or “different” today, may very well be the same thing that makes you a star in years to come. Embrace the things you love regardless of whether they’re popular. There is only one YOU in this world and if you waste your time trying to be like everyone else, the world will miss out on who you really are. And finally, I’d advise teens not to give up on their dreams and to commit to working hard. Some things take time so continue to pursue your passion and work to be the best.

 We are all about teen empowerment. What does EMPOWERMENT mean to you & what advice would you give teens to be comfortable in their skin?

Empowerment means trusting yourself and your abilities. I’d advise teens to be open to learning as much as possible about what they love, and then trying it for themselves. Learning is important, but trying, failing and trying again is the MOST important. Know that you can do whatever you put your mind, heart and focus into.

Time for the Faves! Celeb Crush? Artist? Food? Movie?

I can’t pick just 1, so my 2 favorite movies are “The Matrix” and “Do the Right Thing.” In their own unique way they are
both epic journeys that speak to the human condition on physical and metaphysical level. They both moved me to wonder what I can do to open
people’s eyes. Films and stories like these are a big reason why I am an actor.

Check out more Eric here

Eric Lockley

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