Today we’d like to introduce you to Larry Wright
Hi Larry, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
In 1995, I relocated from New Jersey to Greensboro, North Carolina, amidst a battle with drug addiction. During my time there, I overcame my addiction and resumed my passion for writing. My foray into film began when I met Reggie Nurse, an A&T journalism student who mentored me for a year, introducing me to the art of storytelling through film. A notable project was filming Fantasia’s first birthday party at the Empire Ballroom in downtown Greensboro following her stint on American Idol. In 2013, I co-founded the Paper2film program, which mentors’ young individuals in screenplay writing and filmmaking. I established Pitchvine Entertainment in 2000, which remains operational. Since 2005, my films or screenplays have featured in various film-related events. My recent screenplay, “God Sent,” received the awards for best script and best message at the 2023 Christian Film Festival in Newport News, VA. “God Sent” is a finalist for best short screenplay at the 2024 Content Christian film festival at Capernaum Studios. Currently, we are commencing production on our latest film, “Miss. Baker,” a Biopic honoring Miss. Ella Josephine Baker, the mother of Civil Rights.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road was anything but smooth. It was challenging to get to know and trust people until I began visiting The City Cultural Art Center. That’s where I encountered individuals who shared my passion for film, screenwriting, and theater. It probably took them longer to get to know me because I was always in a hurry—a trait from my northern upbringing. My good friend Patrick Ferrera advised me not to try to build Rome in a day, reminding me to slow down because I’m in the South, not the North. Overall, the progress I’ve made and the relationships I’ve built with people and business owners are among my greatest joys. I must be doing something right; those I’ve collaborated with and done business with over the years remain just a phone call away. The continued support, respect for my work, and recognition of the positive energy I bring is why I’m still here, enjoying what I do.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a Writer, Producer, Director, involved in Theatre Production, hosting Talk Shows, Journalism, and creating Documentaries. I have published a book titled “Three Shorts and a Play,” available on Amazon and Kindle Fire. My films have been showcased in over 15 film festivals. Alongside my business partner Tiffany McKiver, we co-founded the “Paper 2 Film” curriculum. In the summer, we offer a film program under the same name, “Paper 2 Film,” which educates young individuals from low-income backgrounds in the crafts of writing, acting, producing, and filming. The primary goal of this program is to enhance their reading, writing, and comprehension abilities. Established in 2013, the program aims to empower young men and women to realize their full potential and contribute positively to our complex world. Personally, I take great pride in my 29 years of sobriety and being married to a wonderful lady by the name of Joy Slade. Wright. As an artist, I have achieved the distinction of being the first writer from the Triad to be featured in the A-list reading series at the National Black Theater Festival in Winston-Salem, NC.
As a writer of theatre and film, it’s crucial that your projects captivate your audience in a way that distinguishes you from your peers. This distinction emerges when your work reflects your excellence as a writer, director, and producer. My role is to engage the audience with exceptional writing, directing, and producing. As an independent artist, I believe my power as a writer is equal to those who have the chance to write for studios, have their scripts recognized, or win at film festivals. My scripts, whether they are shorts, features, or theatrical pieces, are stories that demand to be told and experienced by those who cherish a compelling narrative, enthralling theatre, and an enjoyable experience.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Seek out individuals eager to share their knowledge and expertise. Often, those who offer mentorship do not provide sufficient guidance to honesty say they have contributed. Similarly, when networking or aligning with ambitious individuals, ensure they are not merely exploiting you as a free assistant for their own benefit. What has proven effective for me in this industry is collaborating with people who match my level of enthusiasm and drive.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://pitchvine5.wixsite.com/larrywright
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/larrysw1/
