Working on Shakespeare and learning about Shakespeare was the big takeaway for me.

I just want to play interesting characters, and I want to work with the best directors I can work with.

It [Moonlight movie] deals with drug addiction, drug dealing, and single parenthood, but they are three dimensional characters. You understand where they are from and what they are trying to do with their lives. It is not a stereotype that has been pasted onto somebody. These are stories that come from Barry's [ Jenkins] and Tarell's [Alvin McCraney] mothers.

The policies enacted during segregation are still being felt in Birmingham.

I had a cheat sheet because I knew Tarell [Alvin McCraney]. His movie is largely autobiographical. I knew about certain events in his life and some of the people he talks about. I had visited the place where he lived many times so I understood innately what that was.

[Theater] has always been a big focus. I have been away from it for the past few years. I want to get back to it!

Now, perhaps more than ever, we need more and more examples of healing. We need to learn what it takes to heal.