REEL TALK...

      (HOUSTON, TX) – September 11, 2008 – With the help of award-winning actress and Communication professor Jordyn Lorenz, an inter-disciplinary group of students in the Texas Southern University, Tavis Smiley School of Communication, has united to bring renowned independent filmmaker kA’RAMUU KUSH to Houston for Reel Talk: exploring the films of kA’RAMUU KUSH.

The project is the first installment in the series of forums for aspiring filmmakers, actors, directors, producers and writers.  The event, which will take place on Monday, October 27, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. at The Ensemble Theatre, 3535, Main St., will feature screenings of several of KUSH’s films, an Actor’s Studio-style interview and an interactive dialog session.

“My vision was to create a hands-on learning opportunity for my students that would also benefit the community, but since inception it has grown immensely,” suggested Lorenz.

Lorenz, who also taught in the John H. Johnson School of Communications at Howard University where she received the distinction of Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers, is an advocate for introducing practical application to the classroom. She describes the project as a “roadmap to a successful career in film.”

According to students who are working to organize the event, Lorenz’s brainchild is a comprehensive learning experience for everyone, regardless of his or her intended career path.

Senior Business Management major DeMarcus Munfus recognizes that working on the project has taught him a lot about business, in general.

“I am learning how to motivate and manage a group of people,” said Munfus. “I’ve learned that what starts as a project can become so much more.”

While students at TSU are excited about planning and hosting Reel Talk, community sponsors are equally enthused. 

“Reel Talk is a project that The Ensemble Theatre is honored to sponsor,” said Eileen Morris, Artistic Director of the theatre.

“This project will connect young artists around the city, and The Ensemble recognizes the importance of Reel Talk’s ability to transcend the stage and serve as a step-by-step guide or source of insight into a variety of career choices.”

In the short time Lorenz has been at TSU, she has already proven that she has what it takes to mobilize and educate people inside and outside the classroom, and she hopes to continue to help TSU and the School of Communication build a legacy of success through her current and future endeavors.

“Reel Talk couldn’t have come at a better time,” said Lorenz.  “The community needs to be reminded that TSU still has a lot to offer – just as it always has.”

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Editor's Note
Reel Talk is a community service project centered around aspiring filmmakers. It is our effort to provide a service to the community that we believe will make a difference in the lives of our fellow youth. We are seeking to meet the needs of those in search of industry role models who are willing to provide a roadmap to a successful life in film. It is our goal to enlighten, encourage and empower people as they pursue careers in the media. For more information, visit www.reeltalk.art.officelive.com.