BroadwayRadio Episode Summary: Class Notes with Amber Rashawn Williams on “Amerikin”

Podcast Information:

• Title: BroadwayRadio
• Host/Author: BroadwayRadio
• Description: Broadway's Premier Podcasts
• Episode: Class Notes: Amber Rashawn Williams “Amerikin”
• Release Date: March 21, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of BroadwayRadio, host Lauren Klash Schneider sits down with Amber Rashawn Williams, a talented performer in the play “Amerikin”, presented by Primary Stages at 59E59. The conversation delves into Amber's experiences portraying Chris Lamont, her collaboration with playwright Chisa Hutchinson, her ventures into voiceover acting, and her role as the host of the popular One True Love Podcast.

Exploring “Amerikin” and the Role of Chris Lamont

Amber Rashawn Williams shares her initial encounter with “Amerikin”, a compelling narrative set in a small town in Maryland. The play centers around Jeff Browning, who joins a local white supremacist group to secure advantages for his newborn son, only to have his plans disrupted by a DNA test. This leads to a complex unraveling of alliances and tensions, especially when a prominent black journalist and his daughter begin probing deeper into the situation.

Key Insights:

• Character Depth: Amber highlights Chisa Hutchinson’s exceptional skill in character development. She notes, “Chisa does a phenomenal job at just, I mean, crafting humans” ([02:29]).
• Personal Connection: Over the years, Amber has grown alongside the play, bringing more of herself into the character of Chris Lamont, whom she describes as “honest and direct and fearless and resilient” ([02:29]).
• No Audition Needed: Due to her involvement in early readings and previous collaborations, Amber was offered the role without auditioning, which she considers a rare and fortunate occurrence ([06:54]).

Collaboration with Chisa Hutchinson

Amber recounts her long-standing professional relationship with Chisa Hutchinson, the playwright of “Amerikin”. Their collaboration extends beyond this play, including involvement in a playworkshop series focused on different boroughs and a virtual project for Milwaukee Rep during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Highlights:

• Supportive Environment: Amber emphasizes the supportive and nurturing atmosphere Chisa creates in the rehearsal room. “Chisa is just a beacon of light. I love having her in the room,” she states ([04:36]).
• Rehearsal Presence: Chisa’s active participation in rehearsals provided invaluable guidance and emotional support. “We got so many Chisa hugs,” Amber shares, highlighting the playwright’s personal touch ([05:58]).
• Creative Freedom: Chisa’s trust allows actors to infuse their personalities into their roles, fostering a collaborative and dynamic creative process ([02:29]).

Rehearsal Process and Favorite Aspects

When asked about her favorite part of the rehearsal process, Amber emphasizes the joy of observing and learning from fellow actors. “Watching the other actors work... is the best part,” she explains ([07:33]).

Key Points:

• Collaboration: Amber appreciates the diversity of thought and creativity that each actor brings, enhancing the storytelling experience ([07:36]).
• Learning Opportunities: By watching others solve problems and embrace spontaneity, she continually hones her craft ([07:36]).

Venturing into Voiceover Acting

Amber expands on her ventures into voiceover work, detailing how it allows her to explore a multitude of characters beyond the physical and age constraints of stage and screen acting.

Notable Highlights:

• Versatility: “I've played toddlers. I've played women in their 80s and 70s. I've played bunnies and dinosaurs,” Amber enthusiastically shares about her diverse voiceover roles ([08:50]).
• Creative Freedom: The anonymity of voiceover work provides her with the chance to experiment and be playful without being limited by visual characteristics ([08:50]).
• Video Game Experience: Amber discusses her role in Horizon Zero Dawn, emphasizing the unique experience of bringing a character to life in a digital medium. “It's really cool to just see, like, myself in other characters,” she remarks ([10:07]).
• Industry Challenges: She touches on the ongoing SAG strike and the push for AI protections to ensure voiceover artists retain ownership of their voices ([10:07]).

Hosting the “One True Love” Podcast

Amber also serves as the host of the One True Love Podcast, hailed as the number one black romance podcast globally, now in its sixth season. She narrates how this endeavor began during the COVID-19 pandemic as a creative outlet amid limited acting opportunities.

Insights:

• Creative Genesis: “This podcast was one of the children that was birthed from those trials during COVID,” Amber explains, highlighting its origins as a narrative-driven storytelling platform ([11:45]).
• Collaborative Creation: Working with co-host Malcolm Barrett, Amber enjoys voicing multiple female characters, while Malcolm handles the male roles, fostering a dynamic and engaging narrative ([11:45]).
• Community Connection: The podcast provided a vital sense of connection and collaboration during a period of isolation, allowing creators to engage and create together even remotely ([11:45]).

Conclusion

Amber Rashawn Williams offers a multifaceted glimpse into her artistic journey, seamlessly balancing her stage performances with voiceover artistry and podcast hosting. Her collaboration with Chisa Hutchinson on “Amerikin” showcases her dedication to nuanced storytelling, while her voiceover work and podcast exemplify her versatility and commitment to connecting with diverse audiences.

Notable Quotes:

• “Chisa does a phenomenal job at just, I mean, crafting humans.” — Amber Rashawn Williams ([02:29])
• “I've played toddlers. I've played women in their 80s and 70s. I've played bunnies and dinosaurs.” — Amber Rashawn Williams ([08:50])
• “This podcast was one of the children that was birthed from those trials during COVID.” — Amber Rashawn Williams ([11:45])

Final Thoughts

This episode of BroadwayRadio provides an in-depth look at Amber Rashawn Williams' contributions to contemporary theater and beyond. Her insights into character development, collaborative creativity, and the evolving landscape of voice acting offer valuable perspectives for actors, playwrights, and enthusiasts alike. Whether bringing complex characters to life on stage or exploring new dimensions through voiceover work and podcasting, Amber exemplifies the dynamic and resilient spirit of modern performers.

End of Summary