Comedian, actor, motivational speaker and author Michael Colyar spoke to the Los Angeles Sentinel newspaper about his upcoming one-man show titled Michael Colyar’s Momma. The play unveils Colyar’s career from humble beginnings to Hollywood powerhouse comedian.
Los Angeles Sentinel: What inspired Michael Colyar’s Momma?
Colyar: “I’ve always wanted to do a one-man show. I’ve had so many ups and downs in my life. Even Mike Epps said I should share my story! I started to write down some ideas and found a similar theme. My mother. She was always involved in the stories I told. I realized this wasn’t solely about me or solely about my mother. There was a beautiful exchange amongst us both.”
LAS: How has your mother impacted your work?
Colyar: “My mother started to get ill. I really wanted to do the story while she was still here. She was my biggest supporter. She would walk up to strangers just to share my story. She was life to me. I knew she was aware of my addictions. She never brought it up though. She only offered love and kindness.”
LAS: You spoke about your past addictions, how did that impact your career?
Colyar: “I was just blowing off money, blowing off friendships, and above all blowing off opportunities. It put my life on hold. That’s what happens when you have an addiction. It’s like pressing the pause button. I thought drugs were my joy but then I realized God was. . . That is the type of joy no one can take away from me because no one gave it to me except God. We all have the capability to finding that joy.”
LAS: What words of wisdom would you offer for someone?
Colyar: “In my mother’s transition, I learned so much more about the quality of life. I had many precious moments with her. Those moments included watching cowboy movies, combing her hair, or just talking to her. My mother’s influence on me is everywhere. I would offer to let people know to focus on the truth. If God is not the answer then you are asking the wrong question. It’s not about what you get, it’s about what you see. You have to focus and believe. Between my mother and God I have everything I need. There are a lot of people who may be wealthier than me but ain’t nobody happier than me!“
The highly anticipated show happens on Saturday, Feb. 24 at the Barnsdall Theater in Los Angeles. For ticket information, visit www.brownpapertickets.com.
