Magical Thinking: JEFFREY JAMES KEYES!

What magical thinking have you engaged in lately?

This question comes at a really serendipitous moment in my life as there are Lou Florez’s excellent book The Modern Art of Brujería and Sadie Kadlec’s Crystals: Channel the Energy of Crystals for Spiritual Transformation sitting on my coffee table in front of me. I've had Laura Mvula’s cover of the song “Magic” that was recorded live on BBC Radio 1 on repeat the past few weeks. I've been working harnessing and accessing my own strengths through the power of manifestation and letting go of the negativity, things, and anything that holds me back. The truth is, I believe in the power of magical thinking in a variety of ways. I think we all have access to magic and the powerful energies of the universe; it's just a matter of listening, learning, and believing. There are so many things that hold us back and prevent us from tapping into greatness so it’s important to not dwell or focus on these obstacles and obstructions but rather move forward walking toward light and positivity on the horizon. 

If you were a magician, what would be your best trick?

I would be a healer. I think there is so much hurt in the world, especially right now and I wish I had greater facilities for healing and relieving those around me of the heaviness and burdens everyone is facing. I grew up Catholic and though I no longer ascribe to the conventions of organized religion I was always struck by stories of healing in the Bible. I spent some time teaching vacation bible school in St. Lucia and periodically still reflect on Biblical stories of healing and miracles. I’m interested in healing through drama, not in the context of drama therapy but through catharsis and connecting with audiences in a deeper fashion. I’ve been reflecting on artistic experiences that resonated with me on a different level, in somewhat of a magical place, and I’d like to find a way to access that. I’m developing a new play currently that I’d like to think would be a collective healing, in a way. Who knows if I’ll be able to pull it off. 

Do you know someone who has a ~magical touch~? What is it?

I don’t know her directly but Aleshea Harris comes to mind. It was an honor to be in the room to experience the magic of her great play What to Send Up When It Goes Down.  The great Actress/educator Joan MacIntosh also has a magical touch. Aside from being one of the most extraordinary actresses of our time, Joan is a remarkable healer. I haven’t seen her in years but the grace and energy she transferred to me when I was a young impressionable drama student radiates strongly in me. 

What has been your favorite magical moment in your life so far?

There have been many, but at my wedding the power went out halfway through the reception and everything went dark except for some light coming in through the windows. Our dear friend Erica Taylor stepped through the shadows and started singing the most gorgeous rendition of the song “At Last” I have ever heard. Her voice, and interpretation of the song was magical. She truly stopped time and gave us the best gift we could have received at that moment.