Lucid Tales debuts with ‘Power Piece’

Caleb Thomas Ben Banks

A new, independent, theatrical company has risen out of Chattanooga State Community College that will make its debut on Saturday, May 20, with a play on social justice, “Power Piece: Unity.”

Caleb Thomas and Ben Banks, both Chattanooga State grads, founded Lucid Tales Productions l ast October. Banks is serving as its chief technical officer, and Thomas is chief executive officer. Susan Pyle, a student in Chattanooga State’s Professional Actor Training Program, is creative director and chief administrative officer.

“Lucid means seeing things clearly,” says Banks of the origins of their name. Banks says the company’s goal is to tell stories in that manner, showcase artistic abilities and give new, fresh talent a stage.

Although Lucid Tales has partnered with several local arts organizations, presented a concert in March, and an art show in April, Saturday’s performance is considered its official debut.

“Unity” is the first of a quarterly series of productions that Banks calls Power Pieces, which will deal with issues facing the community. This first Power Piece is an original play that includes a cast of 16 actors between the ages of 20 to 30.

“The set is a neighborhood and each act takes the audience to a different house in the neighborhood. The audience hears what the problem is within that house — domestic abuse, for example — and then the audience discusses solutions for the problem,” describes Banks.

Banks says their goal is to use various styles of entertainment to impact viewers.

To learn more about Lucid Tales, check its website at www.lucidtalespro.com.

Susan Pyle