What is better than exceeding a goal with flying colors? How about doing it with the support of family, friends and supporters at each step?
Thanks to many individuals who have made an impact over the years, Lynchburg native Daniel Barksdale is currently experiencing a moment of pure elation.
After countless hours of collaborative work, the Lynchburg native wrote, directed and produced a new theatrical production.
For All Have Sinned is not a traditional play, which was intentional. At its heart, the story centers on a family navigating life’s uncertainty after the sudden passing of their matriarch.
Further elaborating, Barksdale explained, “Deprived of her guiding insight, the family is forced to stand alone, only to watch her long-overlooked warnings manifest with undeniable clarity. As deeply buried secrets rise to the surface, the characters are forced to confront truths that can no longer be ignored.”
When Stephanie Williams saw For All Have Sinned, she was with her husband and parents. “You can tell that being a Black man in America gave Daniel some unique perspectives. At times, the play felt like being in church on a Sunday morning,” she said. “During other instances, we couldn’t contain our laughter. Overall, the production was top notch from start to finish.”
The Lynchburg Chapter of the Links, Incorporated, said in a statement, “From hearty laughter to moments of deeper reflection, the play masterfully explores moral dilemmas, life choices, faith, and the human experience, all complemented by wonderful musical elements.”
Other plays Barksdale created include “Everyone’s Addicted To Something,” “Lead Us Not Into Temptation,” “The Family Reunion,” and “Dear God, Thanks For My Child.”
So far, he has brought his different productions to audiences in Raleigh, N.C., Greensboro, N.C., Washington D.C., and Roanoke, among other cities. A show’s success depends on the authenticity and emotion the characters bring to the stage.
When people experience any of his productions, Barksdale wants them to walk away with a sense of connection.
“I’ve come a long way, and I’m so grateful for every valley and mountaintop that has brought me to this point. ‘For All Have Sinned’ is my ninth production,” Barksdale wrote on Facebook. “I woke up thinking of the beginning, before the big theaters, musicians, tours and others. All I had was a vision. God has truly been good throughout the years and has always provided.”
On October 17 and 24, For All Have Sinned will be coming to the Academy Center of the Arts in Lynchburg. For additional information, including how to purchase tickets, visit www.danielbarksdale.com.
