MICHAEL ROBINSON
Sheldon Forrester • Trouble in Mind
Michael G. Robinson Jr., is a native of Jacksonville, FL. and a full-time actor. Michael has performed in numerous stage plays, such as August Wilson’s Fences, Dreamgirls the Musical, The Wiz and God’s Trombones. Michael has also been featured in movies such as They Cloned Tyrone (Jamie Foxx), Origin (Ava DuVernay) and the blockbuster hit Black Panther 2: Wakanda Forever (Angela Bassett). Michael holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and is a proud graduate of The Florida A&M University (FAMU). Michael is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Marketing and Financial Planning from the University of Alabama (Roll Tide). Michael would like to thank his family and friends for their love and support and dedicate this show to Aunt Ms. Gail Smart (Hey Auntie!) and his cousin Sheneka Robinson, “Thank you for always encouraging me to pursue my dreams and goals, I love you and I truly appreciate it, Love Lil Mike!” Michael is thankful for this wonderful opportunity and is diligently pursuing his passion of becoming a world renown actor and entertainer.
What made you audition for this show?
I’m always looking to challenge and stretch myself as an actor, therefore after researching the play and being intrigued by the story it told, I knew I had to be a part of this great production. Secondly, after being in Atlanta filming television and movie projects, I was excited about the opportunity to get back on stage to perform live theater.
How do you relate to the character you’re portraying?
I can relate to my character, “Sheldon Forrester ” in many ways. I was born and raised on the lower Eastside of Jacksonville, FL., during a time when this city was still somewhat racially divided and not very “welcoming” of change. Though I have never witnessed a “Lynching” like my character “Sheldon”, I have seen white police officers abuse their power and authority towards black people. Due to his upbringing Sheldon has to use “common sense” in many situations, therefore I’m always very cautious of my surroundings and I have a better understanding of his way of thinking.
If you had to describe the show in one word, what would it be?
“Life-changing”
What do you want people to take away from this show?
That we as Americans need to recognize and acknowledge that racism and prejudice did and still does exist in the workforce, sports and the entertainment world. We as people, must be courageous enough to confront it (racism/prejudice) by having dialogue amongst each other, so that we as a people can start to build healthy relationships with one another. As my character Sheldon Forrester would say, “One race, the human race! I like that!”
Why should patrons come to support/attend the show?
Patrons should come support and attend the show because it’s always appreciative and very encouraging to local actors when we receive the support of the community, and most importantly the message this show delivers is still somewhat relevant in today’s society. #SupportLocalActors #SupportPlayersByTheSeaTheatre
TROUBLE IN MIND
Written by Alice Childress
Directed by Zach Rivera
Mainstage • May 10 – 26, 2024
A talented and experienced Black actress has been cast in Chaos in Belleville, an anti-lynching play set to open on Broadway. She’s paid her dues throughout the years, playing stereotypical supporting roles in second-rate shows, and is ready for her star turn. Chaos in Belleville, written by a white playwright, might not be quite as enlightened a piece as she’s been hoping for — but that doesn’t mean it won’t sell out. And selling out is the question at the heart of Alice Childress’s comedy-drama. A cast of multigenerational Black actors rehearse under the purview of a white director and stage manager, and as the rehearsal process unfolds, theatre conventions and racial politics collide, resulting in a surprisingly funny yet deeply piercing look at the entertainment industry.
