Reviewed by Amalisha HuEck
McKinnon Powell, a writer and actor from Savannah, Georgia, came to LA in pursuit of acting and it has been residing here for the last fifteen years. He is drawn to stories that speak to human experience.
He wrote 6 OUT of 10, an autobiographical solo play, where he channels his own challenges through his characters. Jessica Lynn Johnson directed the play and helped develop an idea. She is also a published playwright, director, and developer, who received the Best National Solo Artist Award. She is considered Top of Fringe Festival for her excellence. McKinnon said, ‘Without her guidance, I would not have the solo piece that this has become.’
The story is set in Venice, California in 2016. This is the time when the major elections were held, so reengagement of some political news is intermingled throughout the play. McKinnon goes through challenges as an actor and as a gay guy, looking for love and solid relationships. He does not want embarrassment to the family at first, so he keeps his situation a secret. But eventually he surrenders and embraces his individuality.
He beautifully goes through some moments of his relationships, giving exciting voices to various guys and to his dear grandma. Heather Dowling, an instructor with Soaring Solo Studios, helped McKinnon with the character coaching throughout the process of development. She is also an award-winning writer, actor, and director.
McKinnon’s sexy and very beautiful movements were choreographed by Pamela Najera Michael. Anita Lee is responsible for PR, and Bree Little for all the help with hair and getting his Jesus look with long hair just right. And lastly, Justin and Mary Lou Sandler added their expertise handling the multimedia and marketing. Great work all around!
He left the South for Hollywood yearning to be a perfect 10 … but the saying goes – that being six will always stay a six. Even so, I don’t think that McKinnon stayed the six, he found his match and now spends his life with his husband and two dogs. In his free time, he enjoys the outdoors and experiences the arts.
The performances during the Fringe Festival will be Thursday, June 11 at 6:45 pm, Sunday, June 21 at 2:15 pm, and Saturday, June 27 at 5:45 p.m. at the Zephyr Theatre, 7456 Melrose Ave, LA, 90046.