"Poetry seizes me, Sets my soul free, Reminds me just how much I need to be lovin’ me."
As a playwright, Aquaila burst onto the scene in December 1996, with the premiere of her critically acclaimed stage play, “My People, My People”. Presented at the historical Madame C.J. Walker Theatre in Indianapolis, IN, and featuring Malik Yoba, (Cool Runnings, Fox-TV’s New York Undercover & Empire), “My People, My People” was well-received by local audiences. This dynamic presentation demonstrated that this writer has the ability to truly entertain; as well as, arouse the social-consciousness of audiences by providing a forum for theatergoers, provoking discussion on cultural issues relevant to the African-American community and American society as a whole.
Aquaila’s commitment to addressing social issues that stimulate & entertain continues to be expressed in the development of her newer stage works: “The Cost” (a political drama); “hush hush” (a dramatic comedy on family & sexuality); and “Sisters” (a drama about illness & letting go).
Multi-talented in her expression, Aquaila explores the gamut of writing through her playwriting, poetry, short stories and documentaries. Aquaila has performed in various venues across the U.S. and hosted Ascension’s Open Mic in Harlem for several years (formerly at The Harlem Tea Room).
As demonstrated by her spoken word CD, “In Search of Self”, Aquaila’s style of poetry sets the pace for literature that is both rhythmic and intellectually stimulating.
Sharing her personal story of universal themes, Aquaila has toured with the self-written stage show, “Give Me The Mic!” “Give Me The Mic” is a one-woman show, weaved with original poetry and narrative that follows the journey of a young African-American female poet in search for courage and self-worth. Aquaila has taken this one-woman show from local high schools and colleges in the U.S. to performances overseas at the University of South Africa (UNISA) Pretoria, South Africa.
Aquaila is currently developing “The Cost” and “hush hush” at the New Federal Theatre (NYC); and, is in pre-production to direct and produce a documentary based on the works of poet, author, activist and musician, Mari Evans.
In addition to her own creative work, Aquaila assists other artists and small businesses in reducing anxiety and gaining clarity about their finances. Since 1992, she has been a part-owner of a family practice which offers Tax Preparation, Accounting and Financial Advising.