Today we’d like to introduce you to Carlton V. Bell II.
Hi Carlton V., so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started my career in the arts as a performer through High School & College — eventually, I fell in love with producing, directing, & more specific focus on cultural work through artistic movement. Today that looks like producing & directing theatre, film, and television that centers and highlights Black folx that live within the margins of oppression.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Existing in a Black queer body and all the systemic violence that comes with that— in addition to the red tape & gatekeeping that exists in the arts industry. I don’t like to harp on them, but everything I have endeared, every “no” or “You can’t do this” has made me the artist I am today.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m most proud of the work I get to create with people I am close community with. Specific projects include “Transplants” the series from Alchemist Productions, “Is Anybody Out There” by myself and both productions of “Choir Boy” by Tarell Alvin McCraney I’ve worked on.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
Hopefully, more niggas behind the table, to be blunt — also would love to see more Black centered comedy & romantic comedy.
Contact Info:
- Website: Carltonvbell.com
