Possibly taking the term ‘Jack (Jill) of all trades’ literally, Joan McKenzie has taken on the roles of actor, writer and producer of ‘Back Den Back Ben’, a play which highlights Jamaica’s dancehall culture and the driving forces behind changing trends in the industry.

The Edna Manley School of the Visual and Performing Arts alum,who is also a high school teacher of drama and music, said that the concept for the play came about in 2019 and will come to fruition on Friday, January 20, with the help of 13 cast members and a talented crew.

Here are eight questions with Joan McKenzie, owner of Joan_Kenzie Productions.

1. Why did you choose to pursue a career in the creative/performing arts?

The performing arts chose me. I learned all subjects through the arts while at school and I’m my best self when I’m performing or creating. Art is my therapy.

2. Have you acted as well? How is it different from being a producer/director?

Acting has been my first career choice, however, the lack of opportunities pushed me into having my own company as a producer/writer/director. Being the actress, I’m responsible for bringing my character to life. While as the producer/director, I am responsible for the entire running of the production.

3. Is this your first play? Tell us about it.

‘Back Den Back Ben’ is my fifth written play, however, my sixth production as COVID forced me into the film world. The play is an experimental dancehall musical/play written and designed to create awareness around the evolution of our Jamaican culture – then vs now. The characters represent existing dancehall icons as they seek to heighten the themes of the play rather than portray the personal lives of these artistes.

4. What do you hope to achieve with this piece?

My aim is to introduce aspects to the story that expose the life beyond the party that ultimately influences the evolution of the dancehall culture through storytelling. I do this by exploring themes including relationships, music, dance, fashion, mental health, women in society and language.

5. Are there any influences that propelled you to where you are now?

My influences are the struggles and trauma I went through. I was always financially unstable; not having food to eat for days while in college without people knowing, can’t afford rent among other things.While in rehearsal one night, I got a call that my mom passed. I almost fell out of school because of financial and mental issues. However, being in an art space became my therapy.

6. How do you feel about the opening?

I’m nervous because it is a risk knowing that it’s a young company and you don’t know what to expect.

7. Are there any issues that you have faced as a woman in your field?

As a young female in the industry, I wasn’t taken seriously in the initial stage. I was offered ‘jobs’ by men and was laughed at when I turned them down. I was often discouraged that I wouldn’t make it in this industry ‘as a country gyal’ if I’m not engaged in certain activities.

8. Are there any other upcoming works that we can look forward to?

Works are always in the making.

‘Back Den Back Ben’ will be played at Johnny’s Place located at 35 Dunrobin Avenue, Kingston 10 and will run from January 20 to 29.

Tickets are being sold at the Bridge Store Shop on Southdale Plaza, Off Constant Spring Road.