Name: Leonard Earl Howze

Role: Bono

Hometown: Los Angeles, California

What about Fences speaks to you as an artist?: The way August Wilson writes the relationships in Fences is poignant, gripping, and truthful. Yes, he’s writing about the black experience. Yet he’s also writing about the human experience. When you listen to those voices, they speak to the heart.

What’s your biggest challenge when taking on this role?: A challenge in playing the role of Bono is one similar to reality. Where we’re put in difficult situations to shine a light and deliver the hard truth on the wrong doings of close friends, in an effort to get them back on track.

Favorite role (that you’ve played or that you want to play)?: I must say, every role that I’ve had the honor of doing means something special to me. They have all contributed and played a significant part in the journey of my career.

When you have a five-minute break during rehearsal, what do you spend that time doing?: My 5 min break is a time to get a breather from the intensity of the work. Also, with being new to this Colorado altitude, it’s time to pee. lol – no but seriously.

Come and see Leonard and the rest of our cast in August Wilson’s Fences, from April 5 – 21, with a preview night on April 4. Click here to buy tickets.