Luke Forbes, known for his role in Amazon Prime’s beloved comedy series “Harlem,” and Denise Hunt, recognized for her standout performance in the acclaimed film “How Stella Got Her Groove Back,” are set to lead the cast of Alwin Bully’s Caribbean drama “McBee” at the American Premiere Presentation.
The event is scheduled for Sunday, June 23 at The Jamaica Performing Arts Center (JPAC) in Jamaica Queens, kicking off at 7 pm following a Caribbean Cuisine reception starting at 5:30 pm.
The one-night-only staged reading production pays homage to the late Dominican playwright, Alwin Bully, and is part of the annual Caribbean American Heritage Month celebrations in New York City every June.
David Heron, a recipient of the Broadway World Award, takes on the dual roles of Producer and Director for the project.
Set on an unnamed Caribbean island in the recent past, “McBee” delves into the narrative of esteemed politicians Allan and Alice McBee. Their journey unfolds on general election night when Allan encounters three enigmatic Rastafarians who unveil a prophecy: Allan is destined to become the Prime Minister of the island nation. With this revelation, Alice, driven by ambition, begins orchestrating a future that surpasses their wildest dreams, setting in motion a tumultuous path that could demand a steep price for them and their country.
Lead stars draw from extensive experience
Forbes, whose Jamaican heritage enriches his portrayal, brings a wealth of experience to the role of Allan McBee, currently shining as Michael in “Harlem” and boasting a diverse portfolio including TV series such as “Crown Heights,” “Chicago P.D.,” and “This Is Us,” as well as the hit feature film “Dog.”
On the theatrical front, Forbes has graced Broadway stages in productions like “The Merchant Of Venice” alongside Al Pacino and has appeared in notable works at venues like The Public’s Delacorte Theatre in Central Park and Baltimore Center Stage.
Hunt, a native of Jamaica, joins the production as Alice McBee, drawing from her extensive background in acting, modeling, and hosting. Her memorable roles include appearing alongside Angela Bassett and Taye Diggs in “How Stella Got Her Groove Back.” Her stage credits feature acclaimed productions such as Heron’s “Against His Will” and Jambiz International’s “Dirty Diana,” along with touring engagements in the USA and the UK.
Heron expresses his excitement at collaborating once more with both Forbes and Hunt, citing their long-standing professional relationships. Forbes and Heron first crossed paths during the premiere of Kwame Kwei Armah’s “Marley- The Musical,” while Heron and Hunt share over two decades of collaboration, spanning from plays to touring productions.
In a serendipitous twist, Heron discovered that Hunt had previously portrayed Lady Macbeth in a high school production of “Macbeth” in Jamaica, further solidifying her connection to dramatic roles.
Further casting details for “McBee” will follow shortly, with tickets for the American Premiere Staged Reading available from May 3 at mcbeetheplay.eventbrite.com.
The Jamaica Performing Arts Center awaits audiences at 153-10 Jamaica Avenue, Jamaica NY, 11432.
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