Drama Queens, a five-star arts journal focusing on female artists

Shani Tabia Interview

Shani Tabia will be playing the role of Anjelica in The Buffalo Hero of World War I: The Wayne Miner Story.  She started performing when she had a song in her heart from a young age.  Five years ago, she was bitten by the acting bug.  We had a chance to chat with Ms. Tabia about her artistic journey and her experience in this play. 

“I’ve been in the acting world for the past 5 years or so. I grew up immersed in the performing arts, but in the music side, as a singer. I felt a strong urge to become an actor in 2016 while living abroad. Then in 2018 I decided to move to New York City to develop my craft, fell in love with it and I haven’t looked back. I feel like it is a call on my life from the most high. I love sharing my gift of empathy through the art of storytelling. I’ve been studying at Woody King Jr’s New Federal Theatre over the past three years and have been taking other classes sporadically. I am thrilled to be returning to this production of The Buffalo Hero of World War I: The Wayne Miner Story.”

Ms. Tabia made sure to utilize history when creating her character especially because this is a play about true historical events. “History played a big role in my development of the character Angelica. I had to really immerse myself in what it was like to be a black woman during that time. How hard we had to fight to be seen, heard, respected, validated, cared for, etc. While being responsible for doing most of the “caring for”. Many things have changed since then, but unfortunately so much has not. If you look at the play, there are only two women present, the mother, and the nurse or “Angel”. Now initially one might feel a way about that, (I know I did). But I do believe it accurately reflects the realities or at least the mentalities of that time period as it pertains a woman’s role in society and in war. That’s all HIStory.” 

Ms. Tabia’s creative process involves carefully reading the script and then identifying an objective from which she builds her character.   “Hmm I don’t know if I can clearly lay out my creative process. I like to read the script, make sure I have a clear understanding of what it’s all about. And then I dive into my character and identify my objective. Everything else is built around that. How they speak, what they look like, how they move, how they interact with others is shaped around my objective. Kenthedo, our director, and playwright, was really great about sharing his inspirations for the characters with us, so that helped with further character development.”

Sometimes artists portraying a real character in history might feel an added responsibility to bring the character to life accurately.  Ms. Tabia shared her thoughts on that.  “I think in general most artists/actors have a responsibility to tell a truthful and honest story. As a black artist sharing a historical perspective of racism in this country, that burden always feels a bit heavier.” 

 Ms. Tabia would not only like for the audience to enjoy the show but it would make her happy if they come away deeply touched and contemplative.  “I want the audience to come away reflective. Reflective of where we’ve been, and where we are today. I want the audience to feel inspired to research and find more untold stories of Black American heroes. I ultimately want the audience to leave this show feeling more connected to purpose, faith, courage, and the power of love.” 

Ms. Tabia is taking away wonderful memories and words of wisdom from this production.  “In addition to the pleasure of working & growing with such a strong cast of talented actors, there are so many gems in this play I am taking with me. There is a line from Mama and Miner that has stuck with me since my first run in the production… “In war and life, you got to see the big picture. Not just the little battle in front of ya!” I think that’s a message everyone can hold on to.”

Ms. Tabia won’t be too much relaxing after this play is over.  She’ll be too busy nurturing her artistic skills.  “What’s next for me is more learning, studying, growing, playing, & Living! :)”