Quencie Interviews Don B. Welch

I was excited and honored to interview Don B. Welch just days before the film adaptation of his popular inspirational stage play, The Lost Souls Café premiered on TV One. We covered so many topics in our conversation that if you never met him you will really feel like you know him after watching.  He was oozing with positivity and dripping with wisdom.  For those of you who may be unaware, Don B. Welch is an accomplished singer, actor, writer, director, playwright, producer and author. Hailing from Philadelphia, PA, Donald began his professional career as a singer at age 15. As an actor he has had co-starring roles on The Fresh Prince of Bel Air, Cosby, several independent films as well as served as a celebrity judge for The Miss America Pageant 2000 and 2004 for ABC television, co-judging with Judge Judy, and Fox TV’s Greta Van Susseran.

As a playwright, he has written and directed over 27 productions. The most successful being: The Bachelor Party, The Bachelorette Party, My Brothers Keeper, The Divorce and Fight Club.  Noted artists such as: Loretta Devine, Lynn Whitfield, Vanessa Bell Calloway, Dorien Wilson, Marla Gibbs, Ledisi, Kenny Lattimore, Dawnn Lewis, Jackee Harry, Freda Payne, Mary Wilson, Ananda Lewis, Flex Alexander, Shanice Wilson, Ellia English, Ginuwine, Malinda Williams, Keith Robinson, Darius McCrary, Carl Payne, Keith Robinson, Ernest L. Thomas, Judy Pace, Tatyana Ali & Essence Atkins have all been in a Don B. Welch production or film.

In addition, Donald has worked as a writer for superstar friend and fellow Philadelphian, Will Smith. In the year 2000, Donald, at the urging of Will, decided to relocate to Los Angeles to pursue further endeavors in the entertainment industry. Will immediately lent a helping hand by setting up various meetings with industry moguls and introducing Donald to the day-to- day mechanics of television.

Signed by Random House Publishers in New York, Don has written two very successful novels, The Bachelorette Party and In My Sisters House. He is currently working on a 3rd.

His first film, The Bachelor Party, was released nationally by IMAGE Entertainment. His next feature, 24 Hour Love, was released March 19, 2013, while The Divorce was released Feb 2014. TV One feature his newest project The Lost Souls Cafe this past Easter.  

Press Play and enjoy my conversation with Don B. Welch. I've interviewed him several times on the red carpet, but there is nothing like going one on one. He's such a nice, cool fun guy that I didn't think I could like him anymore than I already did, but I was wrong.  After our I interview I liked him even more. Watch below. 

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Don B. Welch Talks About the Premiere of His Film, “The Lost Souls Café,”on TV One

Yesterday, I sat down for a Studio Q interview with Writer/Director/Producer and Playwright extraordinaire Don B. Welch, to talk about the film adaptation of his popular inspirational stage play, The Lost Souls Café, which premieres on TV One Easter Sunday, April 16 at 6 p.m. ET. Actors Loretta Devine, Christian Keyes and Kiki Haynes star in this explosive musical drama about family, friends, corruption and redemption.

In the film, former ‘70s songstress Geneva Branch (Loretta Devine) is the proprietor of a restaurant lounge specializing in live soul music for the upscale, affluent crowd. When Branch learns that her nephew Taylor’s (Christian Keyes) gambling problem has put the restaurant in jeopardy, she is nearly undone. Determined to make things right, Taylor tries to find a way to save the business.

“This particular character of Geneva is attractive and desirable and doesn’t have to be a size 2 to be considered sexy,” said Welch. “Loretta knows that when I write something with her in mind it is going to be fun and challenging and something that she’s never played before. I see Loretta as a chameleon and there is not a role that she can’t play.  I don't think anyone works more than Loretta.”

Having fun with Don B. Welch

Don's stage production of this film has toured the country, generating acclaim from critics and fans alike. In Los Angeles the legendary Stevie Wonder was so moved that he took to the stage for an impromptu musical performance, to the surprise of the audience and cast.  

The ensemble cast includes Todd Anthony, Crystal P. Bazemore and Malika Blessing. Additionally, the film features a special appearance by soul crooner MAJOR to perform his hit single, “This Is Why I Love You.”

Check out my chat with Don about the The Lost Souls Café below and stay tuned for my full Studio Q interview with him coming soon! It's one you don't want to miss. Make sure you watch or DVR The Lost Souls Café on TV One Easter Sunday, April 16 at 6 p.m. ET.