A riveting tale of industry struggles and empowerment is set to take center stage this month at the Brisk Festival, as “Darn It Darla!” – a captivating dark comedy written by the talented Lavinia Roberts – gets ready to entertain audiences. Behind this theatrical triumph is the collaborative genius of Lavinia Roberts and the dynamic Walid Chaya, whose partnership has consistently delighted audiences with its brilliance. This time, the production is brought to life by Studio For Performing Arts LA at the esteemed Brisk Festival LA.
As rehearsals for the stage production are in full swing, there’s a larger vision on the horizon. Plans are underway to adapt “Darn It Darla!” into a short film, produced and directed by none other than Walid Chaya himself. This exciting transition underscores the story’s power and its potential to reach an even broader audience through the magic of cinema.
The narrative of “Darn It Darla!” revolves around a former child star’s unyielding fight for more equitable and diverse roles for women in the realm of Hollywood. Her journey is fraught with challenges, many stemming from her cunning and menacing agent, Blake, portrayed by none other than the versatile Walid Chaya. The story serves as a mirror to the real-world struggles and battles faced by those who aim to reshape the entertainment industry.
The cast, led by the talented Walid Chaya, also includes Liz Venz as Naveen, the former child star revolutionizing women’s roles in entertainment. Quincy Cho embodies Linda, the quirky and mistreated assistant to Blake, while Nelson Arrieta Jr. takes on the role of Devin, the reckless former boy band star on the decline.
The Brisk Festival LA, renowned for its celebration of 10-minute short plays, provides the perfect platform for “Darn It Darla!” to shine. Handpicked through a rigorous selection process, the play’s inclusion in the festival’s lineup is a testament to its quality and thought-provoking nature. This accomplishment speaks to the strength of the production and the creative minds behind it.
Walid Chaya, a driving force in the entertainment landscape, not only represents his community but also champions diversity and challenges industry norms. His vision goes beyond the stage, with plans to adapt the play into a short film that will further amplify its message. This transition from stage to screen highlights the importance of live theater as a testing ground for narratives before they make their mark on the big screen.
As the curtains rise on August 26 and 27, 2023, “Darn It Darla!” is poised to leave an indelible mark. Beyond the laughter it generates, the play carries a profound message – artists should have agency over their creations, free from the constraints of external pressures. This is a testament to the resilience of those who refuse to be stifled by industry norms.
In a world where stories transcend mediums, “Darn It Darla!” exemplifies the journey from stage to screen as a conduit for meaningful storytelling. With each performance, the play’s impact deepens, and its transition to film promises to magnify its reach. As we eagerly anticipate the upcoming performances, we celebrate the transformative power of theater and the art of storytelling – a force that resonates across stages and screens alike.
Secure your tickets for this remarkable performance at walidchaya.com or briskfestival.com, and join in the celebration of artistry, empowerment, and the unyielding spirit of creativity.
