ARTS A Round of Applause

A Round of applause Five women we clapped real loud for in 2022

BY BRITTANY K. HUNT

2022 has been a year of triumph for these ladies, and we are celebrating with them as the year draws to an end.

Sheryl Lee Ralph

This headliner became a first-time Emmy winner for best supporting actress in a comedy, Abbott Elementary, this year. Without question, her performance was outstanding and her acceptance speech was PHENOMENAL, which garnered a roaring standing ovation. While the show is a break-out hit, Sheryl has been gracing screens and stages for decades. The actress played the role of Deena in the original Broadway show Dreamgirls and starred alongside the singer/actress Brandy in the sitcom Moesha.

Tembi & Attica Locke

These two creatives are sisters and the force behind the Netflix series From Scratch. The series tells the story of two people who, on the surface level, are from totally different backgrounds, but at their core are reflections of one another. Food and family are core components in each of their lives, which is only the beginning of them falling deeply in love. The kind of love that is transcendent, soul-nourishing and liberating. If you are looking for something to binge watch over the holidays, this is a must-see series! Kudos to Tembi and Attica for their vulnerability and courage to share their heart on the small screen through this series.

Quinta Brunson

This talented writer provides some of the best medicine there is through her comedy series Abbott Elementary, currently in its second season. Quinta also stars in the laugh-out-loud mockumentary show, depicting an underfunded fictional school in West Philadelphia capturing the realities of what it takes to cultivate engaging learning environments despite their lack of resources. This rising star won an Emmy earlier this year in the category of Outstanding Writing in a comedy series, the second Black woman in history, and inked a multi-year deal with Warner Bros. Television. Quinta is doing her thing! You can stream Abbott Elementary on HULU and watch new episodes on Wednesdays nights on ABC.

Gina Prince-Bythewood

Lights, Camera, Action! Behind the camera, this woman is calling the shots and has been for many years. Gina is the filmmaker who has directed some classic films, telling stories that may not have been told otherwise. Movies like Love & Basketball, The Old Guard, and most recently, The Woman King which brought in 19 million dollars during its opening weekend in September of this year. If you haven’t seen the The Woman King, please go see it! You will not be disappointed by the action or storyline. She is a master of art imitating life or life imitating art depending on the viewer’s perspective. Gina consistently puts out masterful films that are authentic and resonate with the audience.