Composer and lyricist Dana “Grace” Franklin Pannell couldn’t recall exactly how many Christian-themed productions she has put together over the years. “Ten to twenty” was her estimate last Saturday, when the Roanoker staged “The Mary Project” as a benefit at Pilgrim Baptist Church in northwest Roanoke, aiding the parents of a 16 year old boy who died recently from complications of sickle cell anemia.
The late JoAnthony Page was a student at William Fleming High School; his father Tommy preaches at his own church in Salem (Acting Faith Ministries in Salem), while his mother Nicole is an evangelist. Nicole and Grace Pannell did all of the singing and acting during the 12 vignettes of The Mary Project last Saturday, with proceeds going to help defray the burial expenses for JoAnthony.
“Since birth he had issues [with sickle cell anemia] but he never once complained,” said Page about her son. “He always had joy [and] was truly my inspiration.” JoAnthony lost all his toes to the disease and almost passed away in 2006. “We expected him to come back again but God had a different plan for him.” Sickle cell anemia, which is prevalent in the African American community, attacks red blood cells and robs the body of oxygen. “We’re just moving forward,” said Page in the aftermath of their son’s death.
Pannell wrote music, centered on the Virgin Mary and Mary Magdalene, as they encounter Christ before, during and after his crucifixion. Two backup singers and a four-piece ensemble back up the two lead singers/actors. Pannell never studied music in school, and to complicate matters, she can’t hear herself sing. She is grateful when she says, “I truly know that it was a gift.” The Mary Project is now headed on the road, including a date on an Air Force base in Georgia.
On May 29, a benefit concert at William Fleming High School will raise money for sickle cell anemia research. Featured will be a student group called the Dorky Boys that JoAnthony used to play with. Page calls them “smart kids that have found a way to be smart and make it okay.” JoAnthony played bass for the group.
One of Grace Pannell’s ten brothers introduced her last Saturday as “the author and producer extraordinaire of our family.” The Mary Project featured music with a pop sensibility, tinged with some soul, reverence and even humor in parts.
As for teaming up with Pannell again on The Mary Project (they’ve collaborated before), Page called it “phenomenal.” Pannell asked her if she needed help financially; it took awhile but Page admitted JoAnthony’s funeral expenses were an issue.
Pannell decided then that donations received for her “1 Above Productions” play would go to the Pages. “It was heartfelt and it was genuine, and I love her for it,” said Page.
Pannell has also put together a soundtrack CD and a DVD of The Mary Project; call 330-3709 for more information.
By Gene Marrano [email protected]