South Carolina State University’s drama professor, Ursula O. Robinson, is once again making waves in the entertainment industry. Following her appearance in Tyler Perry’s Netflix “Beauty in Black,” Robinson is set to showcase her talents as a playwright with the upcoming performance of her original play, “Thirsty,” by SC State’s Henderson-Davis Players at the Henderson-Davis Theatre.

Robinson’s journey began at age six in Greensboro, North Carolina, where she first found her passion for acting while Christmas caroling with family. Inspired by a creative aunt, she introduced a Black nativity scene that became a cherished tradition. Over the years, this passion deepened, fueled by her admiration for actors like C. Thomas Howell from “The Outsiders.”

Her recent roles, including a scene-stealing performance in Perry’s “Divorce in the Black,” garnered significant national attention. Reflecting on her experiences, Robinson noted, “Knowing your director and the kind of work this film is goes a long way in helping you shape characterization.”

Beyond her achievements as an actress and writer, Robinson thrives as an educator and mentor at SC State. Since joining the faculty after teaching at North Carolina A&T, she has dedicated herself to nurturing young talent, bringing students along to premieres, and sharing invaluable on-set insights. Robinson recently hosted a lyceum to encourage youth to pursue their passions.

“Thirsty,” which runs from Nov. 14 to 17, marks another milestone in Robinson’s career. 

About The Play

A powerful story of love, addiction, and thirst. Follow Aneesha, a college freshman drawn into a dangerous love triangle with Trouble, a charismatic but troubled drug dealer. In a world where broken families and generational pain collide, desire quickly becomes deadly. Don’t miss this intense journey in the depths of human need and the steep price of thirst. Are you THIRSTY?