Meet Regina Wells of Gena-Mae Productions LLC in Carrollton

Today we’d like to introduce you to Regina Wells.

Regina, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Growing up, I thought I wanted to be Whitney Houston. Then I thought I wanted to be Monica Cuffman. Then I started writing poems and stories. I have always had a creative imagination. I started writing plays at the age of 12. My youth pastor and senior pastor at the time encouraged me to put on my first play. I was the main character, and I directed it. I loved it! That was the moment I knew what I wanted to do. I wanted to write and produce plays. As I got older, I became the leader of the Performing Arts Ministry at my church, A Place of Refuge in Carrollton, and I still am!

My parents have always been my biggest fans. They always push me to use my talents to edify God and the body of Christ. In 2004 I started Gena-Mae Productions. Gena-Mae is a nickname my Bishop Barry D. Walker gave me at an early age. Since many consider me to be a full production myself, that’s how I got the name for my company. I use my writing gifts to write, direct and produce plays, ghostwrite, and edit books as well as write screenplays. I have been hired as an independent contractor for several indie film producers as well as directed plays and served as production manager for many live performances. Once I started working for others on film sets and touring with other plays, I discovered other talents. I also do photography and videography.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Some of the challenges early on for me were #1, not knowing that there was real value in what I was doing for others. Many would try to exploit my gift, thinking just because what I do is create words on a page. There should be low to no cost. But after hours of work, writing, editing and producing for others, I saw and knew the value, and I placed that value on my work. If anyone didn’t want to pay for the work I was putting in at. First, I also found it challenging to say no and let them move on. It didn’t take many times for me to be cheated to know that I had a valuable gift and that when I am hired to use that gift, I give my all so I should be compensated accordingly. Another challenge has known when to say I’m unavailable to make sure I don’t overload myself. I have found myself trying to write my own show, edit someone’s book, and still work full time and take care of my family. As I have gotten older, though I’m still a multitasker big time, I have learned how to set deadlines. I have learned how to question those wanting to hire me to ensure I can produce what they are seeking quality and not rush because I’m overloaded. Organization and timing are key elements of success.

We’d love to hear more about your company.
Gena-Mae Productions is a production company that specializes in live theatrical performances. In addition, to live shows, we have produced several short films and helped others produce their plays and films. GMP has established an annual Black Heritage Festival in Carrollton GA that the community looks forward to each year which features a live show, vendors and heritage-based entertainment for all ages. I’m very proud of that. GMP also gives back! The Village Youth Summit Back to School rally is an annual event where we host a school supply and tennis giveaway. 2020 will mark the 9th year for this event. My community knows GMP for touching and inspiring productions and well-organized events. It makes me proud to hear people excited when they know the play they are buying tickets for will be GMP a quality production.

I think GMP is set apart as a production company with a motto of “Showing the world Jesus, in a REAL way.” Meaning it is always my goal to show real-life situations in my shows, but to also show how Christ can and will be the answer to any and all circumstances, despite how difficult the situation.

Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I don’t believe in luck. I believe God has plans for us all, and if we acknowledge Him and follow His guidance, even when challenges come, He will show us how to deal with them and move forward toward success.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.genamaeproductions.webs.com
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: @genamaeproductions
• Facebook: Gena Mae Productions
• Twitter: Gena Mae Productions
• Yelp: https://genamaewrites.blogspot.com

Image Credit:
Keith May
Times Georgian Newspaper

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