July 19th, 1965- January 4th 2015
"They call him butter cause he's on a roll"
Stuart was a man of wit, character, and a number of catch phrases! Watching him on ESPN always brought a smile to my face. It also subconsciously provided me with a sense of comfort and pride in how I chose to express myself. So when I decided to name the organization, Don't Even Tripp, I couldn't help but think like Stuart and say one of his famous terms "Booyah!" The people are gonna feel this!
However...A friend of mine said...
“If you want anyone to take you seriously, you should seriously reconsider naming Don’t Even Tripp Productions to something that sounds more professional.”
My friend who said this, did not mean any harm in his words. He was also not the first nor the last person to critique the company’s name. The argument for changing our name is based in the theory that “Don’t Even Tripp” seems 'too urban' and lacks a professional "feel"
When people say this I try my best to remain calm and listen to their point of view...
But to be honest,I sort of want to cut them off and go off like Kanye...
HOWEVER, that's not productive. And besides, in the industry of theatre and LIFE, you not only need to have a tough skin, but a bullet proof vest mind that is allergic to BS and ignorance. You also cannot take things personal because everyone has their opinion and preference. However, this is not about preference or taking things personal. This is about how urban culture, BLACK culture, is something that people love but at the same time want to either shelter or water down. It may not sound like a big deal to some but for those who are familiar with the concept of having to “tone down” or “assimilate” in order to appeal to a bigger mass, at times it can be quite daunting and even upsetting.
We could have found a different name, something more "safe" or "familiar." But we're not about doing what is safe. We're about taking risks, because with risks comes growth. The name, Don't Even Tripp, is ours! The name is MY family name. The name speaks to how we are NOT going to 'worry' or TRIPP about the issues plaguing our society. Instead, we’re going to take control and create narratives that speak to those in our community. So like we've said before, Don't Even Trpp, we got this!
I was reminded recently of how important is to remain true to your voice and who you are, not only as an artist but also as a person. The recent passing of ESPN News Anchor Stuart Scott is a prime example of an individual who did not water down or mask himself to appeal to a greater audience. His style, his flare, HE, himself, was a living icon. More then a trendsetter, but an eye opener. Opening the eyes of those who thought urban black hip hop culture could not be demonstrated in mainstream sports news. He was an amazing sports commentator, who was educated, remained professional, engaging, fun, and original. Although it is unfortunate he passed at such a young age(49), his style of reporting, his essence, and overall being was able to connect to not only urban audiences but all audiences. Because he remained true to who he was and what he loved.
I decided to write this blog because I believe we constantly have people telling us how or who we should be. It is a freedom, a privilege, and a blessing to break the barriers of others opinions and stay true to who you are. I pay homage and respect to Stuart Scott and others like him who are passionate about their craft and remain true to their voice despite the opinions of others. I write this blog to to anyone out there who has ever felt as if they had to pretend or mask down in the hopes of appealing to another demographic.
In reference to D.E.T., I look at like this, yes “Don’t Even Tripp” is an urban term but why should we be deemed as unprofessional? Or why should that be negative? The people behind the scenes are educated, open minded, hard working, driven individuals who are about making theatre that uplifts and entertains. If you judge us for the name that’s ok, there will be plenty of others who will know the work speaks for itself. And besides, just how the company names stands out, so do our productions!
In closing…be true to who are, there is only one you. Don’t Even Tripp believes in standing out and not blending in, what do you believe in?
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