Mother's Day Comedy And Fashion Show Lands In Edison, New Jersey

Mothers from all walks of life will be celebrated and honored during a diverse pre-mother's day event hosted by Just Be You Performing Arts on Saturday, May 5, 2018 at the historic Edison Valley Playhouse in Edison, New Jersey from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m.. The Second Annual Mother's Day Masquerade Comedy and Fashion Showcase is an evening packed with live vocal performances, a runway fashion show, and the debut of the organization's all female stand-up comedy showcase.

Directed and produced by working mom and producer; Mahogany Reynolds-Clarke, the creator of the innovative comedy show, "Cracking Up In Rahway", emerging female stand-up comedians in New Jersey and New York will put a funny spin on the ups and downs of motherhood. This marks the two year anniversary of the event; which debuted in May 2017 to a sold-out audience, at Hamilton Stage of the Performing Arts in Rahway, New Jersey.

"I am so excited to bring this show to Edison. After gaining much success in Rahway for two years; we realized there was a thirst and a hunger for more diversity, when it came down to stand-up comedy. This year's show is going to offer something for every kind of mom," said Reynolds-Clarke, founder and executive director of Just Be You Performing Arts.

Headlining the stand-up comedy showcase is bold and sassy comedian, Vernita Bostick. During last year's event, Bostick brought down the house with her honest brand of comedy. A full-time educator in New Jersey, Bostick brings a hilarious outlook on working with children. Her fans know her from her work at Carolines Comedy Club, the Women in Comedy festival, and the world famous Apollo theater. She was also recently chosen as a 2018 semi-finalist for the Comedy Wings competition for the American Black Film Festival.

"I think a female comedian is not only important in today's climate, but at all times. Our voice, our opinions and our viewpoint needs to be heard because there is nothing like a woman's perspective. I think the mothers who attend will get a much deserved moment of rest; and be able to enjoy the attention and focus on them, while we praise them through our various forms, to thank them for all that they do," said Bostick.

Making her debut with Just Be You Performing Arts is multi-talented stand-up comedian, Candace Kelley. Many know her from New York. She has performed at the PIT Underground in New York and pen mics. She was also selected to be a featured comedian at the 2018 Black Girls Giggle festival in New Orleans, Louisianna.

"I think when females see other females on stage, it opens doors. It's inspiring in so many ways. The producers have created a show that will also pamper mothers and the undervalued jobs they do," said Kelley.

Fashion Show

Reynolds-Clarke's all-inclusive runway show, "The Runway In Rahway" will make it's debut in Edison, New Jersey during the event. Featuring an array of clothing and accessories from Kat's Vintage and Chic Boutique of Rahway, New Jersey, owner Kathy Simpson-Givens will showcase a collection of unique one-of-a-kind garments. Making her first appearance in "The Runway In Rahway" fashion show is aspiring couture designer, Aisha Nasa, an 18-year-old intern studying fashion under the guidance of Delores Serecin of Delor Couture. Nasa, of Carteret, New Jersey will debut her collection of Asian culture inspired clothing.

"My line is a combination of the American and Pakistani culture, because I come from a Pakistani background and know about the American culture. I take both perspectives and put them together," said Nasa.

Six-year-old aspiring fashion designer, Omariya Monroe, of West Harlem, New York, will also make her debut during the event. Reynolds-Clarke invited the gifted young designer to participate in the show because she believes in opening opportunities for artists of all ages. Moms will be moved by the young people participating in the show.

"Moms deserve to be honored, so my student, young vocalist, Adora McDaniel, will sing beautiful tributes to moms. This event has something for every mom. More importantly, we are taking time to honor a group of moms who are often over looked. The foster care and adoptive mom. Those moms need our support as well," said Reynolds-Clarke.

A Charitable Show

Reynolds-Clarke is collaborating again with Beauty In Spirit, Inc., a Newark, New Jersey based organization designed to empower women and mothers to live their best lives. Founded and directed by Minister Zakiyyah Green, Beauty In Spirit, Inc. sponsored over 20 moms to attend last year's show and they are planning to exceed that number on May 5.

"I believe in the mission and the drive that Ms. Mahogany has for her productions and her students. It's important for women to have a voice in any industry and to be treated as equals. I am inspired by the artistry and the vision of Just Be You Performing Arts. I believe all moms need an opportunity to celebrate themselves or be celebrated. I believe this show will not only celebrate, it will also inspire the women who attend," said Green.

To purchase tickets to the Just Be You Performing Arts 2nd Annual Mother's Day Masquerade Comedy and Fashion Showcase visit their website: www.justbeyouperformingarts.org for a link to buy tickets online. Or to reserve your tickets by phone contact them at: 646-342-7360. Tickets can also be purchased via Eventbrite.com. The event will include vendors with a variety of goods and services; as well as, light hor'douerves, all for just $15. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to a local foster care mother. As a special highlight of the evening, the mom with the best dance moves will receive a special gift bag, sponsored in part by Nicole Martinez, independent beauty consultant for Mary Kay Cosmetics.

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