Spades: The Play feat. Marcus Callender | Bonus Episode - Selective Ignorance with Mandii B

Spades: The Play feat. Marcus Callender | Bonus Episode

Mandii B returns with another episode of Selective Ignorance, joined by A-King and Jason “Jah” Lee for a conversation with actor, writer, and director Marcus Callender, known for his roles as Officer Ray Ray in Power and Oliver Grant in Wu-Tang: An American Saga. After introducing Marcus [00:00], the crew dives into hilarious Spades trash talk, reneging, and game-night etiquette [01:13], along with election jokes [01:54] and how Marcus connected with the show [02:54]. Marcus reflects on his acting career [04:49], Black cultural traditions and food [06:11], and the unwritten rules of Spades, from bidding and bags to heated table disputes and Uno chaos [10:13] [15:01]. The conversation shifts to his stage production, Spades the Play, as Marcus shares how a real-life game night in 2013 inspired a decade-long creative journey [18:38], from early writing and script readings [21:02] to an unexpected phone call [22:31] and his commitment to authentic staging, raw dialogue, and storytelling drawn from lived experiences [24:08] [25:21] [26:12]. He explains how he captures natural conversation on the page [29:54], transforms his vision into a live production [30:55], and challenges traditional theater conventions [32:55] while using gospel music, humor, and emotional storytelling to connect with audiences [34:14] [35:54]. A spirited Brooklyn borough debate [36:51] brings the laughs before Marcus returns to the production’s journey [40:49].

Marcus breaks down the casting and audition process [42:40], including selecting the actor portraying Andre [43:47], and discusses the importance of family, teamwork, and building an independent touring production [47:20]. His journey from humble beginnings to creative ownership [48:30] sparks a conversation about creating opportunities without waiting for Hollywood’s approval [49:02], the importance of unapologetically Black storytelling [50:41], and why owning intellectual property and investing in live theater matter for Black creatives [52:00]. Marcus shares upcoming tour dates, ticket information, and sponsorship opportunities [53:00], including performances in Atlanta, New Orleans, and Miami during Art Basel, while discussing the Spill app [54:54]. The crew also explores audience reactions, constructive criticism, and praise from supporters like Regina King [58:00], before Marcus reflects on faith, resilience, and the power of greenlighting your own ideas [01:02:18]. The episode closes with final tour details and where to follow the production [01:05:16]. From Black game-night traditions and Hollywood experiences to independent theater, creative ownership, and the business of storytelling, Selective Ignorance celebrates the cultural impact of Spades the Play and the importance of Black creators controlling their own narratives.