What My Husband Doesn’t KnowAn Interview with David E. Talbert
by Wilson Morales
October 28, 2011
Coming out on DVD on November 1st is the latest stage play from playwright David E. Talbert, ‘What My Husband Doesn’t Know,’ which is touring the country with Destiny’s Child’ Michelle Williams, Morris Chestnut, Ann Nesby, and Clifton Davis.
Besides his other stage plays, ‘Love In The Nick of Tyme’ and ‘The Fabric of a Man,’ Talbert’s is also a filmmaker, having done the comedy film, ‘First Sunday,’ with Katt Williams, Ice Cube and Tracy Morgan.
In his current play, Lena Summer (played by Williams) is the envy of all her friends. Big house. Successful husband. It’s the perfect life…or so it seems. But with her husband’s demanding career, the other side of her bed I too cold too often. When a handsome young foreman is hired to do work on their home, the spark she’s been missing quickly rages into a wildlife that could cost her everything.
Where did you come up with the idea for the play?
David E. Talbert: Most of the stories that I write come from the people I interact with. The plays and novels are slices of the stories I hear. As a writer, I listen and observe the people around me and as I start putting together an idea for either a novel or play, I incorporate some their stories, and I add some sensation to it. It’s has to feel real to audience. With this play, I wanted to explore the essence of love, whether you have it or not. And if you have it, is it enough to keep you happy.
Part of the marketing to any play is either the story or the cast? How’s working with Michelle and Morris?
DT: It’s been a constant pleasure, and I’m blessed for the cast I have, including Clifton Davis and Ann Nesby. Brian White started the role that Morris has now, having worked with Morris previously on ‘Love in the Nick of Tyme,’ he’s made a smooth transition from screen to stage. He’s brings a certain flavor to the stage that make the audience appreciate what he’s done on the screen, and his chemistry with Michelle is flawless. It’s a fun atmosphere on the stage because everyone is enjoying doing the work. It’s even better when the show is over, and the fans are waiting outside to thank them for giving them a great time.
As the writer, director, and producer of this play as well as the other ones you’ve done, how do you maintain balance?
DT: When I write the plays, I feel that I’m the best person who can best direct the talent on stage because that’s my work and I spent a lot of time envisioning how to present the roles on stage. I can best describe the words and the emotion that comes with it when the actors are speaking it. The same goes with marketing. As the producer, it’s a matter of connecting the dots and understanding your audience. When it works, stick to the same formula until it stops working.
After seeing what Tyler Perry has done with his stage plays, and bringing to the cinemaa, any thoughts of doing that with this show?
DT: Yes, this is a sneak of what people will see on the big screen. Right now, we’re still touring and bringing the show to people around the country. There’s nothing better than watching a live performance, and for those who aren’t able to see when it comes to your town, or if it doesn’t, hopefully, we’ll get it in theaters for you.
WMHDK Xmas Spot from Christopher Hayes on Vimeo.
