WHAT MY HUSBAND DOESN’T KNOWAn Interview with singer/ actress Michelle Williams
By Wilson Morales
February 25, 2011
Currently touring nationwide is David E. Talbert’s newest stage production ‘What My Husband Doesn’t Know,’ starring Brian White and Destiny’s Child’s Michelle Williams.
Along with Ann Nesby and famed film and television actor Clifton Davis, this powerful and provocative new play celebrates Talbert’s 20th anniversary in theatre.
To her friends, the stunning Lena Summer (Williams) has it all—big house, loving daughter, wealthy husband. But her husband, Franklin, is so wrapped up in his construction business that the other side of Lena’s bed is too cold too often. When temptation comes along in the form of a handsome man named Paul (White), Lena gives in to her desires and a torrid affair ensues. But when she tries to break things off with Paul, things take a dark and surprising turn, eventually facing her with a difficult dilemma. Before the night is over, things grow even darker—but help may be much closer than Lena could have ever dared to imagine.
For Williams, who’s best known for the successful R&B girl group Destiny’s Child that also included Beyoncé Knowles and Kelly Rowland, it’s a return to the stage after appearing as Roxie Hart in the London and Broadway musical show, ‘Chicago.’
She made her on-stage acting debut in 2003, replacing fellow R&B singer Toni Braxton in the title role of ‘Aida,’ and also appeared on Oprah Winfrey’s Chicago-based cast of the hit Broadway musical ‘The Color Purple’ for its national tour.
In speaking with Blackfilm.com, Williams talked about returning to the stage, working with Brian White and David E. Talbert on the play, and her music career.
How does it feel to be back on stage?
Michelle Williams: Oh, it feels great, especially when I know it’s where I belong. I absolutely love it.
Are you ready for the grind of doing a 30-city tour?
MW: Touring is tiring, but it reminds me of just touring when I have an album coming out. You have to do a promotional tour, and this is touring with a play. It’s amazing because I was in LA recently, where I flew in for Kelly’s birthday. Then the same night took a red eye for Orlando. The traveling has me a little tired, but I’m so thankful I’m doing this, I’m good, so it’s like the tiredness goes away after two hours then comes right back. (laughs) The adrenaline of seeing all the people and appreciating the time that they took time out of their day and spent money to see me, I don’t think about those rigors.
For good part of your life you were traveling left and right, so part of doing this is getting back in the mindset of touring.
MW: It’s difficult, because I know we do eight shows a week, but by the 6th show there are times when I have a minute or two before I have to go back onstage and where I just need to sit down and reel myself back in. Once you break that plane and get back onstage you’re in that character. When you are onstage you have to be ON.
How would you describe your character?
MW: Lena, she’s grounded, she’s mature, she loves her husband, but doesn’t love the fact that he’s gone all the time and can’t spend time with her. She’s loving, a great mother, great wife, feisty, and she’s always sharp. There are people who tweet me at the end of the show saying, “Girl, what were those beige shoes you had on?” She’s that good wife that men always say they want, then her husband is all a woman could ask for so it’s like, “Be careful what you ask for.”
Because he’s away she still needs comfort. He’s the one everybody wants but he’s never around.
MW: That’s the sacrifice you make for having a successful man. He obviously did not become successful by sitting at home all day. When men are focused they are FOCUSED. They love their wife and family, but when they have to work they have to work. At the same time you don’t want to neglect your wife, and my husband forgot my birthday. That’s crazy. You could at least have your assistant put my birthday on a rolodex, automatically have some Joe Malone candles sent, just something to let me know some thought was put into my birthday. That’s what has my character down, then the crazy thing is another man steps in who knows my birthday, buys me a gift, and fills that void. I’m not saying it’s right…
How’s working with Brian on the show?
MW: Working with Brian is great, he’s so professional. I learn so much and at the same time we have an absolute blast together. This is his first stage show, ’cause he’s used to film, I like the film ideas he has for filming this for DVD, so to see some of the suggestions he makes is amazing. Very talented dude.
You’re working with David Talbert, and he’s been doing this for 20 years. He’s bringing this urban experience and a fanbase. What are you learning from David as you do the show?
MW: I’m so thankful I’m able to work with him. I’ve been trying to work with him for five years. When I was in London and he actually mailed the script to me. He’s so hand’s on, I just literally sit and observe. Even the way he gives direction. If you’re wrong he doesn’t embarrass you and say, “You suck! This is the way it goes!” I like how gentle he is but he’s aggressive. The adjustment he wants he’s able to make. He’s definitely gifted, and it’s an honor to work with him. Leonardo DiCaprio will always work with Martin Scorsese, right? I will ALWAYS want to work with David Talbert ’cause he made my experience so positive and amazing.
What was the selling point to taking on this role?
MW: By reading page 3 of the script I was cracking up. It kept me engaged and had me thinking, on the edge of my seat ’cause of how he wrote it. “How is the audience going to understand this blocking? How do I get from one part of the stage to the other in 30 seconds?” It probably why I’m so tired ’cause I have to be so many places, but it’s great.
What did you think of this year’s performances at the Grammys?
MW: I loved the majority of the performances. Usher KILLED, Lady Antebellum AMAZING. I was so ignorant, ’cause I was surrounded by Esperanza, she’s been around for such a long time, and the fact that a jazz artist got recognized in what would have been a pop or rap person getting that category blew my mind. Stay true to who you are at all times, you will be recognized for it. It’s gonna take time, but stay true to who you are. I was very inspired by her win.
When’s the next time you’re coming out with an album?
MW: Probably this year. I’m excited by what I’ve been hearing so far, so hopefully this year. I don’t about a whole album because I’ve got this play and maybe some other Broadway opportunities coming, so we’ll see.
Have you been approached to do any films?
MW: I’m reading a script and I auditioning, so I know the right film or TV series will come along. I feel good about this year and next year.
What’s getting you happy in terms of responses to your performance?
MW: They’re shouting at me onstage, which is something I’ll never get used to. They love when Brian takes his shirt off, and my reaction to the morning after. They are hilarious, absolutely off the chains. People are excited, we sign their autograph books, and they’re happy we came to their city.
You, Kelly, and Beyonce, have done different things successfully on your own. Will there be a reunion any time soon?
MW: We have no idea, we haven’t talked about it. Maybe someday soon.
Loading…