Today we’d like to introduce you to Darius Thomas.
Hi Darius, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I remember watching the Grammy’s in 2016 waiting for Kendrick Lamar (my favorite artist) to perform but before his performance was one by Lin Manuel Miranda and the cast of Hamilton. That’s the day I found out that you could rap on Broadway and the day I decided to.
So that Thursday I started writing my first lyrics to what later became my first musical, This Life: The Musical. That was in February of 2016… In 2019, after writing the script and making the music, I decided to produce that first show with only $2 in my bank account at the time.
Through perseverance and my faith in The Most High God, I produced that first show under my production company to a sold-out crowd and paid all my actors. I put on that same show again on Easter Sunday, 4/4/21, at the Riverside Epicenter.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road has definitely been difficult. I could always see how big and high quality my creation could be mentally, but in starting so suddenly without guidance, I was bound to run into an experience barrier.
After the second show, I knew the old model of trying to scrape money together to do shows and doing everything myself wasn’t sustainable. So I took the rest of 2021 to study. Little did I know that my goal would lead me down a very spiritual journey. Now I see how to reach my goal without the struggles of before.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
First and former, Darius Thomas Productions writes and produces musical theatre. But also, it is a production company that specializes the full production process, from preproduction through the posting of content on social channels. I can do this because of my experience in live theatre.
My goal is to make sure that the independent creative in Atlanta can stay that way. That’s why I move how I move, that’s why I do what’s required of me spiritually and physically. Because I want us all free.
What sets me apart from other people is the understanding that I meet people and projects with. I can unify a variety of people under a cohesive vision.
Brand-wise, I’m proud that we not only have the goal of moving towards bringing everything in-house, but we are actively taking those steps.
In this year, more short films are coming out and we are building up to the release of my second musical.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
First, the obstacle is the way. Next, ask questions. When starting, I searched and searched for information on how to write and produce musical theatre but I only found one website and it didn’t give any real information.
If there are people who are just beginning in film or theatre production, I encourage them to go to my page on Instagram. There you will find scripture and encouragement to build you a foundation to stand on. Then go to my YouTube channel, I will be giving out the production process. Maybe even go to my website, email me, let’s collaborate. I can show you firsthand what it’s all about.
The main key is to let them know I’m there for them
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.dariusthomasproductions.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/dariusthomas_?igshid=Zjc2ZTc4Nzk=
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@dariusthomasproductions7464
