In order to truly give, you must appreciate the gifts you possess.
-Judy Leak
Experience
Live Garra Theatre, Inc.
Live Garra Theatre, Inc.
Live Garra Theatre, Inc.
Judy Leak serves as the Associate Director for Dr. Wanda Whiteside’s Live Garra Theatre, Inc. Live Garra offers enormous opportunities; endeavoring to illuminate all facets of a multicultural society; and foster cross-cultural understanding of the many ethnic voices in the community “America’s Talking: A Peoples Mosaic” used ‘Spoken Word’
Judy Leak serves as the Associate Director for Dr. Wanda Whiteside’s Live Garra Theatre, Inc. Live Garra offers enormous opportunities; endeavoring to illuminate all facets of a multicultural society; and foster cross-cultural understanding of the many ethnic voices in the community “America’s Talking: A Peoples Mosaic” used ‘Spoken Word’ discourse to explore a variety of ethnic backgrounds through poetry, music and dramatic storytelling creating a sense of belonging while strengthening their place and time in history as part of America’s dynamic diaspora.
Professor Vera J. Katz
Live Garra Theatre, Inc.
Live Garra Theatre, Inc.
Judy stars as Ella in “The Intruders” written by Hope Price Lindsay and directed by Professor Vera J. Katz whose illustrious academic career has spanned an impressive 32 years within the theater department at Howard University. She has been an instrumental supporter in fostering the burgeoning acting career of Judy Leak and countless oth
Judy stars as Ella in “The Intruders” written by Hope Price Lindsay and directed by Professor Vera J. Katz whose illustrious academic career has spanned an impressive 32 years within the theater department at Howard University. She has been an instrumental supporter in fostering the burgeoning acting career of Judy Leak and countless others that include but are not limited to, Phylicia Rashad, Debbie Allen, Lynn Whitfield, Taraji P. Henson, and Chadwick Boseman.
3-2-1 Contact
Live Garra Theatre, Inc.
3-2-1 Contact
Judy starred as Robin in 3-2-1 Contact, an American science educational television show produced by the Children's Television Workshop. Judy interviewed and shadowed innovative scientists across America taking lava samples, jumping out of airplanes and working with Sally Ride to experience weightlessness on the KC135. The show aired on PB
Judy starred as Robin in 3-2-1 Contact, an American science educational television show produced by the Children's Television Workshop. Judy interviewed and shadowed innovative scientists across America taking lava samples, jumping out of airplanes and working with Sally Ride to experience weightlessness on the KC135. The show aired on PBS from 1980 to 1988 and ran on Noggin (a joint venture between the CTW and Nickelodeon) from 1999 to 2003. Some of the guest appearances on the show included Robert Guillaume, Sarah Jessica Parker, Gene Wilder, and Arte Johnson.
About Judy Leak
Bio
Judy Leak is an accomplished artist and educator hailing from Washington, DC. Her journey in the arts began at Howard University, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, followed by her continued study at Catholic University. Her talents then led her to the bustling theater scene in New York City, where she showcased her skills in the Broadway production of "Purlie" and imparted her knowledge by teaching acting at the Herbert Berghof Studio.
Transitioning to television, Leak made significant contributions to public broadcasting, notably appearing in shows like "3-2-1 Contact" and "Watch Your Language." She participated in the influential "Just Say No" campaign alongside Nancy Reagan. She was also in the film "Somewhere, Tomorrow" (1983). Her passion for education led her to the world of science education on PBS through the show "Newton's Apple."
For 25 years, Leak dedicated herself to enriching young minds as an educator in the DC Public Schools system, leveraging her expertise and also acquiring National Board Certification and a Master's in Educational Administration along the way.
Leak cherishes her family deeply, boasting three children and eight grandchildren. Residing in the DC area, she continues to grace the stage in local plays and was featured in "A Matter of Worth," a production for The Women's Voices Theater Festival, which even garnered attention from the BBC network. Recently, she starred in a play in New York City called "The Intruders" and was interviewed by WPIX 11 in New York about the show.
Judy Leak stands as a multifaceted individual, leaving a lasting impact through her artistic contributions, dedication to education, and ongoing commitment to the theatrical arts in her community.
Judy played "The Happy Girl"in "Purlie." "Purlie" is a compelling musical co-authored by Ossie Davis, Philip Rose, and Peter Udell, featuring Udell's lyrics and Gary Geld's music. This engaging production finds its roots in Davis's 1961 play, "Purlie Victorious." Set against the backdrop of the American South during the era of oppressive Jim Crow laws, "Purlie" centers around the charismatic traveling preacher, Purlie Victorious Judson. Returning to his small Georgia hometown, Purlie is driven by a fervent desire to rescue Big Bethel, the community's church, and liberate the cotton pickers toiling under the oppressive rule of Ol' Cap'n Cotchipee's plantation.
Assisted by the spirited Lutiebelle Gussie Mae Jenkins, Purlie endeavors to wrestle an inheritance rightfully belonging to his long-lost cousin from Cotchipee. This windfall is crucial for Purlie's mission to achieve justice and freedom for the exploited workers. In his intricate plans, Purlie enlists the unexpected support of Cotchipee's son, Charlie. Despite his father's harsh and unjust ways reminiscent of Simon Legree, Charlie exhibits a fair-mindedness that defies expectations. Ultimately, Charlie's courageous act of defiance saves the church from destruction, sparking drastic repercussions for the tyrannical Cap'n Cotchipee. "Purlie" weaves a compelling narrative of resilience, hope, and the triumph of righteousness over oppression in the face of adversity.