In order to truly give, you must appreciate the gifts you possess.
-Judy Leak
Experience
Bio
Live Garra Theatre, Inc.
Live Garra Theatre, Inc.
Judy Leak is an accomplished artist, educator, and storyteller whose life’s work reflects a lifelong commitment to creativity, connection, and inspiring others. A native of Washington, DC, Judy’s artistic journey has taken her from Howard University to Broadway, television, film, and the classroom—where she discovered that teaching was an
Judy Leak is an accomplished artist, educator, and storyteller whose life’s work reflects a lifelong commitment to creativity, connection, and inspiring others. A native of Washington, DC, Judy’s artistic journey has taken her from Howard University to Broadway, television, film, and the classroom—where she discovered that teaching was another stage upon which she could share her gifts. For 30 years, she educated and empowered students in the DC Public Schools system, bringing the same passion, imagination, and discipline that shaped her artistic career. Today, Judy continues to embrace performance while celebrating her most treasured roles as a mother and grandmother. Her journey is a testament to the enduring power of passion, purpose, and the belief that creativity can transform lives.
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
Professor Vera J. Katz
Professor Vera J. Katz
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
Professor Vera J. Katz
Professor Vera J. Katz
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.
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.