REVIEW: "What My Husband Doesn't Know", new play by David E. Talbert

by Cyrus Webb (with Katonya Davis)

(Wednesday, February 23, 2011) When it comes to giving audiences good entertainment with a powerful message, few are able to present such messages like writer/director David E. Talbert. Whether it is on stage or presented for telelvision you can't help but see the care and attention that he pays to each aspect of the creation. The new play "What My Husband Doesn't Know" is no different.

I got a chance to see this play while it was in Jackson, MS Feb. 18th and 19th. At its core, "What My Husband Doesn't Know" is about a woman (played by singer/songwriter Michele Williams of Destiny's Child fame) who seemingly has everything: a husband (played by actor Clifton Davis) that adores her and showers her with everything as well as a lifestyle that is the envy of many. What does seem to be missing, however, is the affection and attention that she so desperately craves.

Due to her being in a vulnerable state, the door is open for someone else to enter the picture (actor Brian White)---and that's where things really start to get dangerous yet interesting.

What really got me about the play as it evolved are the different stereotypes that Talbert was able to not only dispel but bring to the light for some real conversation. First being the thought that money can make you happy. Second would be that all men are cheaters and unfaithful while the woman is always the victim. And lastly what I really appreciated was the realization that our actions can have far-reaching consequences, both good and bad.

There is something in this play for everyone: drama, suspense, humor, great songs (though not too many to take away from the overall message) and the stars that so many clamor for and can't wait to see more of. I think regardless of what brings you to the movie, you can't help but take something away from it that you will remember, share and reflect on long after you leave the theatre.

To see when "What My Husband Doesn't Know" will be in your area, visit www.davidetalbert.com.

Cyrus Webb is the host of Conversations LIVE Radio and the Editor-In-Chief of Conversations Magazine. He can be reached at cawebb4@juno.com, 601.896.5616 or www.cyruswebb.com.