'Fannie Lou' Musical

After a career as a legal assistant, Marie Wilson wanted a change, but was afraid to step out on faith.

“I had been in the corporate arena forever,” said Marie, who’d worked in the field for more than three decades. “I’d been working for lawyers since I was 19 years old. I wanted to pursue some things I love.”

One of those things was theater.

“I’ve always loved Broadway,” Marie said. The Color Purple and The Wiz are among her favorites, she said, adding that she especially enjoys works by and about African Americans.

Marie decided this would be the year she’d explore that particular love. In March she plunged into the pursuit -- attending acting school, keeping up with casting calls on industry sites, going on auditions.

On Oct. 22 she’ll be seen in “Scenes and Songs from Fannie Lou,” in the roles of Mrs. Clark and of Barbara. The parts are small, but Marie said she is thrilled to have them.

“I’m excited,” she said, adding, “Whatever God has for me is for me.”

Performing runs in Marie’s family. Her mother was an opera singer, and her brother, Reno Wilson, is a professional actor whose most recent credits include a featured role in the “Mike and Molly” TV series.

Originally from Brooklyn, Marie moved to New Jersey in 1991 with her family. She successfully raised two adult children while establishing an active role in her Freehold, NJ, community, where she moved when her children were young and now lives with her husband. She frequently sings solos in her church, and is a devoted member of its praise and worship teams. She has twice been an ordained deacon. As part of her quest to “do some of the things I love,” Marie will have her Bachelor's degree in Christian counseling at Liberty University in Virginia in December 2016.

Not letting anything stop her from pursuing her goals, she is diligently preparing for the Oct. 22 performance.

“I trust and believe God for everything I do,” said Marie. “I truly feel blessed for this opportunity.”