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Mr. Austin, the musical conductor, was so disturbed by my audition that he told our church Minister of Music, “You would not
believe the song that Pat sang for the audition. Ask her to return for a second time.” I returned, but when I was told that a New York

cast had been chosen, I replied, “There must be something I can do. I don’t have to be on stage. I can be behind the scenes, helping

out in whatever capacity is needed.”

They seemed to reconsider. Could I sew? No. Could I hang lights? No. Could I design sets? No. But, I could go for coffee and lunch. I

could pick up major stars from their hotels. I could help actors rehearse their lines. I could drive major stars to other venues to perform
while in Miami. I even gave a Production Party at my home. Needless to say, I performed those tasks joyfully. In the process, I learned

what goes on behind the curtain of a major production. I was “packing my suitcase full of show business and play production

knowledge,” as my friend and Tajiri’s Historical Storytelling Instructor, Mrs. Valada Flewellyn, would say. When it was all said and
done, I brought all this knowledge back to Sanford.

When that play closed, another one was to open two to three weeks later with a major film star/comedian at the time, Godfrey
Cambridge. The play was the Broadway production of God’s Favorite. The director of Purlie Victorious told me to audition. I was

truly surprised, but I did what he said. Before going, I researched the play and was prepared when I arrived; however, I came to the
audition not knowing the Master Plan! When I finished reading, the person directing the audition said, “You have the part.” I was

astounded and surprised. I couldn’t believe it! I said, “But aren’t there others to audition?” He replied, “No, we knew you could do

it. Our eyes were on you all the time. Your mannerisms, your behavior, and your cooperation with actors. It was your role from the
beginning.” JESUS! You never know, children!

The person who had done the role on Broadway didn’t want to come to Florida. She was Rosetta LeNoire, the grandmother from

the TV show, Family Matters. I was jubilant, excited, and HAPPY, HAPPY! I hurried up and found a fantastic grandmother-type

babysitter named, Mrs. Morgan, whom Kamili loved even during his late elementary school years. (Years later, after Kamili’s dad and