Interview: "Corduroy" Actor Keyla Alston-Griffin talks performing, parenting, and the power of storytelling.
Zuri Maria Carr and Keyla Alston-Griffin play Lisa and Lisa’s Mother in the Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine’s production of “Corduroy,” running December 1 to December 30, 2023.
Photo: Katie Day.
Mother + Daughter Duo Take To The Stage in CMTM’s “Corduroy.”
For the first time, a real-life mother and daughter are taking the Maddy’s Theatre stage!
Maine actors Keyla Alston-Griffin and Zuri Maria Carr play Lisa’s Mother and Lisa in “Corduroy”, running December 1 to December 30, 2023. Recently, CMTM caught up with Keyla to talk about the experience of working together as a mother-daughter team, the power of empathy, and the enduring magic of this classic tale of friendship, home, and the quest for belonging.
CMTM: Keyla, what has it been like to collaborate with Zuri as an actor and real-life mother and daughter? Have you learned anything about each other that delighted or surprised you?
Keyla: Collaborating in "Corduroy" with my daughter (Zuri) has been an extraordinary journey, blending the professional with the personal. This dual role has enriched our on-stage performance and deepened our real-life relationship.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this collaboration has been observing and supporting my daughter's growing sense of professional responsibility and independence. For example, when faced with a choice between a social commitment and a rehearsal, I stepped back, allowing her to make her own decision—a significant moment of growth and pride for both of us.
This collaboration has also revealed new facets of each other's personalities, showcasing Zuri's insightful contributions, emerging assertiveness, and creative instincts. These moments reflect her growing self-assurance and provide fresh insights into her evolving persona.
This truly has been a rewarding experience, allowing us to support each other uniquely, strengthening our bond, and enhancing mutual understanding on and off the stage.
The cast of CMTM’s “Corduroy.” Photo: Katie Day
CMTM: Why is “Corduroy” an important story to tell?
Keyla: “Corduroy” is more than a tale of friendship; it’s a profound exploration of acceptance and the universal quest for belonging. The story's portrayal of Corduroy’s journey beautifully reminds us of the importance of dreams and the resilience required to pursue them. It resonates with me deeply, mirroring my own (and everyone’s) search for what completes us, be it a goal, connection, or a sense of purpose.
The story also holds special significance in its depiction of companionship and loyalty, underlining the idea that everyone deserves love and acceptance. This is especially crucial in fostering inclusivity and empathy among young audiences, helping to shape their perspectives on diversity and understanding.
Ultimately, “Corduroy” transcends its charming plot to deliver a powerful message: the importance of cherishing kindness, appreciating the depth found in simplicity, and sustaining a spirit of hope. It’s a timeless tale that warms the heart and inspires the mind.
CMTM: What interested you about participating in this production and taking on these roles?
Keyla: I was particularly drawn to participating in this production of “Corduroy” because of the theater's deliberate choice to select a play with two BIPOC main characters. In a state like Maine, such a decision is not just progressive but also represents the bold and necessary steps that are essential for bringing more diversity into the theater. It's a commendable move that aligns with the spirit of the original book, which was itself a trailblazer in its time for its representation and themes.
I also appreciate that the characters are presented as just that - characters with depth and relatability, not solely defined by their racial or ethnic backgrounds. This approach honors the source material and sends a powerful message about inclusivity and normalizing diverse representation on stage.
Additionally, the opportunity to explore the mother-daughter dynamic in this context added another layer of appeal for me. It's a role that offers both a personal and professional challenge, allowing me to delve into the complexities of this relationship against the backdrop of a story that has both historical and contemporary relevance.
I commend the artistic director and the staff at the theater for their vision and bravery in making this choice. Their commitment to diversity and representation is not only inspiring but also indicative of their dedication to creating a more inclusive and reflective theatrical community. These kinds of intentional and thoughtful decisions make me excited and proud to be a part of this production.
Corduroy, Lisa, and Lisa’s Mother as featured in the original illustrations from “Corduroy” by Don Freeman (1968).
CMTM: What do you hope audiences will take away from this production?
Keyla: Zuri and I aim to convey a story that fosters a renewed appreciation for the beauty and complexity of human connections. We seek to bring to life the depth and simplicity of the portrayed friendships, encouraging viewers to reflect on their relationships and the importance of acceptance.
As actors, our goal is to embody our characters' essence and convey the meaningful lessons they learn, inspiring the audience to appreciate the diversity and richness of their relationships. Through our portrayal, we hope to convey a message of understanding and connection, emphasizing the need to see the world differently and form bonds beyond the superficial.
Ultimately, our aspiration is for each audience member to leave the theater with a sense of warmth and hope, gaining deeper insights into the power of relationships and the simple joys they bring to life. We're excited to share this heartwarming story and its profound themes with our audience.
About the actors:
Zuri Maria Carr
Zuri (she/her) is thrilled to take on her first acting role as Lisa in the Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine production of “Corduroy.” She is in sixth grade at North Yarmouth Academy and has a background in dance and gymnastics. Offstage, Zuri is keen on combining her interest in sustainability and veganism with her entrepreneurial spirit. Math is another of her favorites, and she dreams of someday merging her love for numbers with innovative and cruelty-free products. She's an avid skier, an enthusiastic traveler, and a budding chef, especially when it comes to experimenting with vegan recipes.
Keyla Alston-Griffin
Keyla (she/her) is excited to immerse herself in her first season with CMTM’s Acting Company. Her professional adventures include a rich journey through entrepreneurship and a graduate degree in social work. This foundation amplifies her passion for storytelling and community engagement on and off the stage. When not under the spotlight, she's the driving force behind the Digital Philanthropy Collective, fervently working to intertwine the realms of business and community. A heartfelt thanks to her family for their support and the beautiful chaos they bring into her life.
