Why Are You So Angry?

The original Aunt Viv (Janet Hubert) from The Fresh Prince has been in the news lately bashing ex co-star, Will Smith. Apparently, she blames Will for her dismissal from the show many years ago.

The scoop: Over the holidays, Will Smith posted a picture on Facebook of the Fresh Prince cast having a reunion dinner to 'start the holidays right,' according to Will, which started a swirl of rumors that there was going to be an official Fresh Prince Reunion.

That's when TMZ got a hold of Janet Hubert and asked her why she was missing from the picture and about the potential reunion, and she replied: “There will never be a reunion … as I will never do anything with an a**hole like Will Smith. He is still an egomaniac and has not grown up. This constant reunion thing will never ever happen in my lifetime unless there is an apology, which he doesn’t know the word.”

YIKES! The facts: Fresh Prince has been off the air for 15 years and Janet hasn't been a cast member since 1993....that's 18 YEARS AGO!!!

How can someone hold that much anger for that many years?! Whether it's true or not, something tells me she should have let that go a L-O-N-G time ago! Deep rooted anger is very unhealthy. It effects more than just your mind once it's internalized. It manifests in your body in the form of high blood pressure, migraines or even heart attacks. Not to mention how it effects your relationships with your partner, kids, boss, or even pets.

Is Aunt Viv just a typical Angry Black Woman? Maybe, she's being accused of being an ABW because she has an opinion? Should she have let it go years ago? Is she harming herself by hanging to to such animosity? (she certainly isn't hurt Will...I'm tempted to say he's doing just fine!)

As we prepare to head into a New Year, let's all make a resolution to let things go! Life is too short to keep hate inside our hearts! And if you need help, contact us at Girl Doing BETTER. We're committed to helping you put your best foot forward and present the best you possible!

contact me: trey@treyanthonystudios.com
facebook: http://www.facebook.com/girldoingbetter
twitter: @girldoingbetter

Pariah releases in select US theaters today

Pariah, for those who don't know, is a movie that follows a 17-year-old African-American lesbian, as she struggles with how to live with who she knows she is.

Pariah generated a lot of buzz at this year's Sundance Film Festival and opens in select US theaters today.

This film perfectly timed as more and more young gay people are committing suicide each day because they do not feel accepted in today's society. Hopefully this movie will continue to raise awareness and start dialogues among families and save some lives.

To my US fans and friends, check your local listings and check it out if you can.

For more info please visit their website: http://focusfeatures.com/focusfeatures/film/pariah/

Getting Ready for the New Year

2012 is quickly approaching and it's time that we start creating new goals and desires for the new year. Every year we resolve to hit the gym, or to give up (insert item here), do better and be better. But somewhere around mid January the hype wears off and we're left with a laundry list of seemingly unattainable goals that we set with high hopes. How do you ensure success?

Have you ever thought about having a life coach help you?

A life coach isn't someone the stars use to help them 'keep it real.'

Really what I'm here to do is to help you put your life into perspective! That's all. I'm that voice of reason, that friend that will tell you the truth and inspiration and motivation we all need to push our goals to the next level. Sometimes we all need that outside voice to help us see the light and help propel us to the next level.

So what are you waiting for? the stroke of midnight? Your dreams to start to fade?

girl doing BETTER is life coaching made easy. From the comfort of your own home we will teach you to identify your roadblocks and help you move forward as the best YOU possible!

Girl, the time is now to do better! Lets work on this together! Two heads are better than one! Be proactive about your dreams! Sign up today!

Prices range from $97-$450 +applicable taxes. Payment plans/options are available.

contact me: trey@treyanthonystudios.com
facebook: http://www.facebook.com/girldoingbetter
twitter: @girldoingbetter

Congrats Melanie!

Last night Melanie Amaro became the first contestant to win X-Factor USA and $5 million. I can't help but be happy for the island girl whose lifelong dream came true.

Does she have more growing to do? Of course! For starters she's only 19 and besides we all have room to grow. (In fact the only time you should stop growing is when you're dead!) But she worked hard and surmounted many obstacles along this journey. In fact, she heard the word 'no' almost every step of the way but persevered and came out victorious.

It just goes to show that you should never give up on your dreams; even when it seems like the only door of hope just closed right in front your face.

Keep pushing, keep striving and keep working...the world is watching!

Rihanna Called N-Word In Dutch Fashion Magazine 'Jackie'

A Dutch fashion magazine, Jackie, recently called Rihanna a "n***abitch" with a "ghetto ass" in an article describing her sense of style. Excerpt from the article below:

"She has street cred, she has a ghetto ass and she has a golden throat. Rihanna, the good girl gone bad, is the ultimate n***abitch and she displays that gladly--for her that means what's on can come off. If that means she'll be on stage half naked, then so be it. But Dutch winters aren't like Jamaican ones, so pick a clothing style in which your daughter can resist minus ten [temperatures]. No to the big sunglasses and the pornheels, and yes to the tiger print, pink 'shizzle,' and everything that glitters. Now let's hope she won't beat anybody up at daycare."

At first, the editor-in-chief, Eva Hoeke, took to Twitter and stated that the original intention for the choice of words was to be a 'joke' and apologized for potentially offending anyone. However, after realizing the error she tweeted: ‘1. Don’t publish bad jokes in the magazine 2. Don’t pretend bad jokes to be funny. Sorry guys. My bad.’

The backlash continued. Hoeke was harassed and threatened and by the end of the day she found it necessary to quit her job at Jackie after 8 long years.

This incident got me thinking about the state of North American popular culture. Step out of North America for a moment and take a look at what other countries see when they look at our culture. There are flashes of bitches and n***as littered all throughout our pop culture and we don't think twice about the effect it has on the rest of the world.

Is this a classic case of being lost in translation? Was the magazine being malicious? Should the Dutch have know better? Done their research? or were they reflecting what they see pouring out of North American media? Interested in hearing your thoughts. Let's start a discussion.


blessings,

t

Article in Huffington Post:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/12/20/rihanna-called-n-word-in-_n_1160181.html

So Blessed!

"I woke up in the morning feeling fresh to death
I'm so blessed yes yes
I went to sleep stressed woke up refreshed
I'm so blessed yeah yes
Water in my face and everything is in it's place peace of mind even my grace
I'm so blessed yes yes yes"
--Jill Scott 'So Blessed'


Woke up feeling WONDERFUL today! Hope you did too. Just a reminder from Jill Scott that's its a new day with new possibilities. Be blessed!

t

It's Time For A Natural Barbie

This week, I read about a Natural Hair Group in Columbus, Georgia that transformed 40 African-American Barbie dolls into natural hair beauties. Apparently, there is a tutorial online that teaches you how to transform Barbie's slick, straight hair into a beautiful curly mane. What a great gift for any girl to receive -- a doll that is a reflection of the natural beauty of their hair.

The article states that "although Barbie has been around since 1959 and comes in 50 different nationalities it's rare to find a black doll with textured hair." It's been a long time coming and I commend this group for taking the time to create these dolls.

Maybe with enough persuasion, we can get Mattel on board and we can start to see these dolls in stores all over the world!

Here's the link to send them an email:
http://service.mattel.com/us/ContactUs.aspx


It's so important that our little girls have role models of all types! Let's be the change!


Link to the article:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/12/14/natural-hair-group-in-geo_n_1149574.html#s544755

Are you ‘da next KINK womyn?

Are you ‘da next KINK womyn?

Have you always dreamed of being a part of ‘da Kink in my Hair?
Would you love to spend part of the summer in New York City?
Can you act? sing? dance? drum?

AND

presents…
‘da Kink in my Hair
by trey anthony
directed by Michele Shay
back in Toronto this AUGUST 2011 and we are looking for YOU!



AUDITIONS – OPEN CALL:
Monday May 9, 10am to 5pm
Tuesday May 10, 9am to 8pm
*First come first served

INVITED CALLBACKS:
Wednesday May 11, 9am

LOCATION:
Harlem East Side (upstairs)
67 Richmond Street East
Toronto, M5C 1N9
*No outside food please

REHEARSAL and PERFORMANCE DATES:
Rehearsals in New York City, July 1st-30th
Performances begin Aug 1st – Aug 30th
*Valid passport required


We are looking to fill the following roles:

SHARMAINE – a Hollywood TV star with a secret. She is confident, dynamic and gorgeous. Open to all womyn of colour. Age 20-35. Must sing and move/dance well.

SUZY – A caucasian womyn from the South torn between her love of her family and the love of her husband and young son, who are black . Average looking, girl next door, cute and loveable. Age 18-24. Must sing and move/dance well and be able to do an American Southern accent.

PATSY/MAXINE – A black Christian womyn with strong religious convictions, a sharp sense of humor yet a bit uptight. She is the epitome of rage and grief as she relives the tragedy of her son’s shooting. Mid 40’s. Must sing and move/dance well and be able to do a West Indian accent.


For your AUDITION:
* Be prepared with two, 1 minute monologues - one dramatic and one comedic
* Be prepared to sing a song a-capella and include some movement
* Bring 2 copies of your resume and headshot
**Please note auditions will be live-streamed and there will be a live studio audience


***Ability to play African drums is an asset
****This is a non-equity show, however equity and non equity actors welcome.

For information not included in this call-out contact:info@treyanthonystudios.com

Hey folks!

I am now in producing mode for the theatrical tour of 'da Kink in my Hair! I'm in love with the work that I do! And as I do this work I realize how important it is to do work that you love! I had mentioned in earlier blogs that I was working on A creed for my life. It's a ten part creed. I have posted the first five points to my creed and I will share the rest soon. Feel free to incorporate these points into your own life or create your own creed. Wishing you continued greatness!!!


A creed for my life. by t. anthony

1. I must do work that I love. Work that feeds me challenges me and makes me feel as if my small act or contribution of "work" is making a difference in the world.



"When you're choosing your work and you're choosing the material that you're putting into the world, you have to understand that somebody else's kids are going to see that. Somebody's grandmother is going to see it. Are they going to be better or worse after they have contact with your material?" Will Smith.



2. I must surround myself with people who are committed to personal growth and strive to be "better" people every day, who hold one simple values as myself which is to want to leave the world just a bit better than when they came in it. I want people in my life that would choose me as a friend because they truly like me. People who wish to be around me regardless of whether or not I'm rich, poor, straight, gay, black, white, drive a fast car or ride the bus. They want to be around me because they like who I am. They like my laugh....


"Show me your company and I'll tell you who you are." By my West Indian grandmother. * I don't think she made this up because every black grandmother says it!


3. I must not get attached to possessions, things, or people. They do not define me. I now know that there is no guarantee that the people who are in your life will be there tomorrow. No guarantee that the house you now own will belong to you next week. The person who you vowed you would spend the rest of your life may wake up one morning and decide their life doesn't include you. Nothing ever stays the same. Change is constant so enjoy all these things for the moment that you have them because you never know when that "moment" will be gone forever or simply just change in a small yet very significant way.


"The only constant is change." Greek philosopher Heraclitus


4. I must make my health and personal well being a priority. I must try my best to make healthier food choices. Nourish my body, as I would my mind and my soul. I must truly take care of my physical well-being and exercise regularly and make good food choices. Thus, when going to the grocery store I shouldn't "cheap" out and choose not to buy organic food or choose not to buy fruits and vegetables because the bag of cookies are on sale for $2 and McDonald's has two for one burgers! I must also be selfish with my “ME” time and take time for myself.


“Live in rooms full of light. Avoid heavy food. Be moderate in the drinking of wine. Take massages, baths, exercise, and gymnastics. Fight insomnia with gentle rocking or the sound of running water. Change surroundings and take long journeys. Strictly avoid frightening ideas. Indulge in cheerful conversation and amusements listen to music. 
 -- A. Cornelius Celsus


5. I must take risks. I must move out of my safety zone. I should never ever get comfortable with meritocracy. I must trust that I will "know" when it is time for a new beginning, a new way of thinking, and time for me to move on.... Moving on may require me to make new friends, choose a different partner, move to a different city, cut my hair, and take a different route to work. "Moving on" means to me moving away from the familiar.



“Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore.” Andre Gide.”

'da Kinky Hair Womyn are BACK!

I have always dreamt about producing a North American tour of ‘da Kink.
I wanted to self produce a tour and do a tour my way! I wanted to take
'da Kink on the road! Yet I was scared. This was a huge undertaking.
How could “little me” do something so BIG?
Lack of sponsors, money, fear, time, fear, fear, fear… the list goes on for all the reasons I had why it wouldn’t work.
I am finally taking the plunge and I have invested most of my savings and life into this tour. I’m lucky that T.D. Financial Group(my bank!) recognized something valuable in me that was worth investing in, namely myself and my dreams. They have come on board as a presenting partner with my company for the‘da Kink in my Hair North American tour of 2011-2012! We will be rehearsing in New York, and performing in North Carolina with plans to tour Atlanta, Florida, and New York. Of course I had to bring ‘da Kink “home.” So for 14 shows only we will be in Toronto from August 11-21, 2011!

Early Bird Tickets go on sale TODAY April 7th, 2011 $35 for any seat in the house! (weekend regular seats range from $47-$77! so this early bird special is a huge saving! )
To express our thanks to you for one week only early bird tickets will be $35 for any seat in the house! **except for opening night.**
Regular tickets will range from $27-$77 for Box Office information please call(416) 973-4000 or click below for Harbourfront Centre's Box Office and more information.
Harbourfront Centre


Join and "like" our Facebook group where we will be posting exclusive behind the scenes footage of 'da Kink, interviews with the cast, pictures, everything KINKY will go on here! So check it! I will also be posting give aways!
Facebook


And Yes,sometimes I want to do things big! BIG TINGS! How about a KINK royalty night? Do you want to go to ‘da Kink VIP? Yeah girl!


Our red carpet media and VIP opening night reception is August 13th, tickets will be $99, which includes drinks and entrance to our private reception. Only 99 tickets will be available to the public. Come and rub shoulders with Toronto's A-list!

I thank you community for always supporting a little black girl with a DREAM!

blessings,
t

Hey Everybody!

The best Urban Theatre Production company - Trey Anthony Studios has a new exciting website that you just have to check out!
It has all the latest information on yours truly, trey anthony and what my production company is up to these days. Big Tings, Big Tings!

I know your curiosity is killing you, so let satisfaction save you, here is the address: http://treyanthonystudios.com/

I want to shout out to the wonderful ladies at Cinnamon Toast who worked so diligently with me and my team to get our website out to the world and looking so fabulous, if I must say so myself! So if you like what you see on my website? Hit up the ladies at Cinnamon Toast New Media! They specialize in brand identities and updating current visual marketing presence for companies and individuals through web-based, print, and other media. So give them a call, oh and you can say trey sent you! Here is their address: http://cinnamontoastnewmedia.com/

Let me know what you think about the site! This is going to be a big tings year!!!
And big love going out to you all! Thanks for your continued support!

blessings,
trey

I’m forever seeking the sun...

I’m forever seeking the sun.


On February 18th I celebrated my birthday. Birthdays for me are a time of reflection… a time to really examine where I've been and where I want to go.


It seems as if I’m constantly changing. Changes that continue to surprise not only others, but also myself! I now really embrace my alone time. I now deliberately seek intimacy. I no longer need a crowd of people occupying all the spaces in my life in order for me to feel loved and popular. I love my small group of friends. I now clearly know the difference between acquaintances, “friends” on f/book and my real friends. I find I have less time and tolerance for what I view as other people's stuff and "nonsense". I’m finding it easier to disappoint others in order to be true to myself.


My biggest accomplishment is that I’ve finally created a home that is truly mine. One that feels stable, peaceful and lived in. I’ve had many homes, but never really “lived” in them. Lived on the edge and on edge in many spaces. Lived in chaos for most of my life. Now, I’m in love with my home. I love the light spilling from my dining room windows. I love curling up on my living room couch with a good book. Cooking simple meals in my kitchen.


I miss my home when I'm away from it. Long for its peacefulness, quiet, trees and walking trails. I’m a country girl who was trapped inside a city girl’s body! Finally I’m free! I love to be around nature. I'm forever seeking the sun…


I enjoy the work that I do. I have to do work that I feel proud of. I must work with people who I trust and respect.


I now guard my privacy more. Learned from Oprah, Beyonce and Jay Z that my private life is my private life. I am a public person, but not ALL things need to be public. My privacy is non-negotiable.


I have become more selfish with my time and how I choose to spend it. I do not have to be at every event, every family gathering. I no longer need to be everywhere that people think I need to be.


I am trying to be more expressive with my feelings. I tell close ones that I love them. Try to be ok with people loving me and holding me.


I am trying to function from a place of forgiveness rather than judgment, thus it has been easier to forgive my family and others who have hurt me. As a result, it is becoming easier to forgive myself.


I have more faith in God, therefore more faith in myself.


I like the womyn that I am becoming…. I like who I am on most days J


I “enjoy the company that I keep in the quiet moments…"


Every day I am changing, growing, learning and loving. I am committed to working on myself. As I continue to ask myself what type of womyn do I want to be...


I’m currently developing a creed for my life, somewhat of a ten commandments for myself. A guide map to how I want to live. This is a work in progress. I will share it with you once I have figured it all out.


If you were to develop a creed for your own life….what would it be? What would be on your list? What would be your top ten? Will share mine very soon !



Blessings

trey