Today we’d like to introduce you to Learical Jonez.
After two years on the poetry scene beginning in 2003, she was hooked, and Learical Jonez didn’t waste much time moving from her hometown of Fort Wayne, Indiana to Atlanta, Georgia in 2005. She immediately discovered the major poetry/spoken-word hubs in Atlanta and began performing at popular open mic sessions. Eventually, she moved on to begin a long-standing relationship with Joyce Littel, popular Atlanta radio personality and the host of Poetic Moments Live and Passion & Poetry, a popular production widely anticipated by Atlanta fans each year. Moving forward, Learical eventually realized that she wanted more. With her unique perception, she probably predicted well in advance that her writing style would go over well.
Hence, beginning with her first play, “Aunt Sara’s Girls.” This play filled with some of the “hush-hush” drama that alot of families somehow manage to keep secret, Learical explicitly exposes it all. She is outrageously passionate and creates her own brand of powerful depictions about dysfunctional life, and apologizes to no one for her honest theatrical choices. For example, In “It”s A Thin Line,” [an extension of “Aunt Sara’s Girls’] whereby the perpetrators tell their side of the story to its emotionally damaged victims-it’s almost impossible not to shed a few tears, or be reminded of familiar emotional life experiences. Expounding on relationships with significant others, and/or family members, Jonez literally brings “taboo” subjects bravely to the forefront.
While on stage, the cast carries on with a unique perception of Learical’s intentions, and skillfully hone in to the passion she so candidly conveys. Adding to that, and somehow in between the emotional scenes, you can’t help but laugh-and I mean gut wrenching laughter with Learical’s interjected comedy scenes. It’s skillfully done- and if the audience experiences a few yo-yo emotions- well, that is what Learical planned at the outset. In eight years, Learical Jonez, writer, producer, director, and CEO of LJEG (Learical Jonez Entertainment Group) has managed her craft with a concept few newcomers in this business would dare to attempt, let alone complete with such drive and unstoppable tenacity. Her plays display a life of their own and are managed with a skilled conviction that comfortably matches peers, and some of whom Learical admires as some of the industry’s best. Word has quickly spread about Learical’s works. With eight productions under her belt [Aunt Sara’s Girls, It’s A Thin Line, Sunday, Social Networking, Pretty Hurts, Fat Girl Diaries, Cognac Monologues & Side Piece Chronicles], she is ready to bring you more.
In November of 2019, Learical will debut “Who Made The Potato Salad?” a production revealing family secrets and what happens at holiday dinners. Who Made The Potato Salad will also dive into Mental Health; a subject that is widely frowned upon in the African American Community. According to Learical, “Who Made The Potato Salad is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.” And given the “lasting impression” this young lady continues to leave us with, I know that Atlanta is waiting with bated breath. Learical currently mentors a group of actors and actresses that she has deemed, “The Social Rejects.” The Social Rejects are comprised of actors, actresses, singers, rappers, poets, dancers and musicians from all over Georgia.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Some of the struggles along the way have been dealing with depression while continuing to smile and hold it together for my team.
Please tell us about The Jonez Entertainment Group.
The Jonez Entertainment Group is a premiere entertainment company. We are best known for our work in theater but we also develop artist.
I am most proud of my cast and crew. They continue to show up and show out no matter the situation.
What sets us apart from everyone else is that we are a family. We have family get togethers and dinners on a regular basis to bond with one another…even if we don’t have a production together. Another thing that sets us apart is that we deal with issues in our productions that no one wants to talk about in the African American Community.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
One of the most memorable moments from my childhood is the cyphers on the basketball court in Brick City. I spent my teenage years on the South Side of Indianapolis in the projects called “Brick City.” The basketball court was one of the hangout spots and we used to have cyphers…that’s when I knew I could really rhyme. I would be the only female in the cyphers…giving the guys a run for their money. I think that’s when the “Jonez” was birthed.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.learicaljonez.com
- Email: li@learicaljonez.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/lj_jonez_
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/thejonezentertainmentgroup
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