W
e’ve had the
honor of
connecting in the
past with Mrs. Chandra Currelley and It’s always been a good time. We’ve connected again, this time for the upcoming second run of the hit stage play, Strength of Love. Currelley will be starring alongside Sean Baker and Meelah Williams in the modern day love story that centers around the everyday struggles of relationships, and the processes of healing and forgiveness. The play kicks of Friday, February 10 in Griffin, Georgia, and extends throughout the weekend with 4 shows.
Chandra talks with us about the play, what everyone can look for this time around, and the other projects she has in the works.
U.G. Digital Mag: I’m so grateful for you and your time today. The last time we connected was for Making Moves, which was back in October. How have things been going?
Chandra Currelley: Things have been going great. It really opened the door for me with film. I have a new agent I’ve connected with, and I have a lot of auditions coming up. I needed a big machine (laughing). I have a few things coming up, and I’m excited.
U.G. Digital Mag: Would you say getting to this point in your career was something you always wanted?
Chandra Currelley: Actually, It’s gone beyond my dreams. When I started, I just wanted to sing in front go millions. As I connected with people like Tyler Perry, my outlook became broader.
U.G. Digital Mag: It’s amazing because so many people know the depth of your music, and your history. I still feel as though you being a part of these productions, especially with Tyler, it introduced you to a larger audience.
Chandra Currelley: Yes. When I recorded with Roy Ayers, and then became the lead vocalist for the S.O.S. Band, it was a huge experience. As it went on, the DVDs did it. The tours were good, but by him recording the DVDs, it gave me such a huge exposure. I could get to people in a short amount of time. It re-introduced me to a whole new audience. People who knew me before knew me from S.O.S., and they saw me reinvent myself with a whole new generation. My demographic is pretty broad now.
U.G. Digital Mag: I love that you realize how large your audience has grown. You’ve reach a lot of different age groups. I remember bringing a new camera guy for Making Moves, and he totally fanned out over you. He knows everything you’ve done. That showed me how wide your audience is and how many people you’ve touched. It’s pretty amazing.
Chandra Currelley: That’s awesome. I had no idea it would be that way. As time goes by, it’s more and more. I’m still meeting young actors who have watched me. I’m thankful for that because I’ve always been a student of the arts. Hopefully when they saw me, they saw quality, and how things should go. I’m thankful for learning my craft and for the people around me.
U.G. Digital Mag: We see the quality, and it takes me back to Strength of Love. It’s such an amazing story. You and I both know how good The Baz Brothers are. How did everyone come back together?
Chandra Currelley: I just think everyone was available and it worked out. Others were trying to secure me, but by the time they asked, I was already committed. I wanted to start the year off acting. When God puts you in a place where he extends a promotion in your talent and gift, then you recognize where you are and where you’re supposed to go. Sometimes you have to leave what you do best for your future. I wanted to start off that way. My experience was good. This time, I get to do things I never thought I would be able to try on stage. Now I have a better understanding.
U.G. Digital Mag: I think of The Baz Brothers, and the professionalism that comes with everyone. Anytime I come out, I’m coming all the way from Cleveland, Ohio, and in a heartbeat, I drive out to their events because their professional.