“Reliving Jason’s Lyric: The 90s Black Love Story Hits Brooklyn Live”
“Reliving Jason’s Lyric: The 90s Black Love Story Hits Brooklyn Live”
Brooklyn, New York, recently hosted the debut of Jason’s Lyric Live, a stage production that beautifully reimagines the 1994 cult-classic romance film Jason’s Lyric. Now, this powerful adaptation is preparing for a nationwide tour, bringing its heartfelt exploration of love, trauma, and redemption to audiences across the country.
The original movie, directed by Doug McHenry and written by Bobby Smith Jr., is widely regarded as one of the most iconic romantic films of the ’90s. Starring Allen Payne, Jada Pinkett-Smith, and Bokeem Woodbine, it delved into the intricate dynamics of family love versus romantic love, exploring themes of loyalty and conflict. The story follows two brothers—one embodying “the good” and the other “the bad”—who always manage to look out for each other despite their differences.
Je’Caryous Johnson, known for his theatrical brilliance, brings this classic story to the stage with a fresh perspective. His adaptation retains the soul of the original film while infusing it with dynamic monologues, music, immersive stage design, and a reimagined script that resonates with a contemporary audience. The Brooklyn premiere saw an outpouring of support, with audiences eager to reconnect with this timeless narrative in a new format.
The stage production features a stellar cast, led by Allen Payne reprising his role as Jason (House of Payne, New Jack City). Eva Marcille (All the Queen’s Men, America’s Next Top Model) shines as Lyric, and the cast also includes Treach as Alonzo (from the iconic hip-hop group Naughty by Nature), K. Michelle as Marti (Love & Hip Hop), Tyrin Turner as Josh (Menace II Society), Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs as Maddog (The Jacksons: An American Dream), and Victoria Rowell as Gloria (The Young and the Restless).
Rising star Shariff Sinclair plays Ron—a role originally brought to life by Lahmard Tate—injecting fresh energy and charm into the character. Hailing from Brooklyn, Sinclair was supported by family and friends, bringing even more warmth to the event.
Eva Marcille as Lyric and Allen Payne as Jason
The kickoff event for Jason’s Lyric Live, was a memorable evening featuring an interview with Treach, light refreshments, an open bar, and great music. Though not all cast members attended, the energy was electric, and the passion for the production was palpable.
As Jason’s Lyric Live embarks on its nationwide tour, it promises to deliver a gripping story of love and resilience, complete with unforgettable performances and a celebration of Black love and family. This is more than a play—it’s an experience you don’t want to miss. And with Johnson already known for his standout theatrical creations, we can’t wait to see what he has in store next!
Me on the left (Blogger-Beauty Within), actor Lawrence Hilton Jacobs, and my friend.
