Hip-hop artist looks to deliver music, monologues with one-woman show

Tampa hip-hop artist and actress Dynasty takes her career into a new direction Saturday at Stageworks Theatre with her first one-woman show: A Star in Life's Clothing : Life. Love. Language. Lyrics.

Not only does the New York native promise a mix of music and monologues, but she says the show provides, "A glimpse into what it's like to win, fail, love, lose and ultimately land in your own divine space."

It's a lot for one woman to deliver.

"I've grown up with this music," said Dynasty, real name Dianna Hardy. "I started performing around 13 and now I am in my 30s. I have done all of these things, some more than once.

"The show touches on a few of the experiences that many may not know about me and how I got through, and continue to get through because it's not over."

Dynasty has produced a number of achievements since moving to Tampa on a whim in 2004, including a recent European tour and a new vinyl project, Forever DY. She describes herself as "undeniably flawed, but still magnificent," a theme that will be part of the show.

She draws inspiration from watching others overcome struggles.

"It shows me that I can mess some things up and still win," Dynasty said. "Nobody is perfect, we all have a story to tell. I hope that people can see and hear me tell, own and grow through my story and be encouraged to do the same."

The show stands as more than a whimsical effort. Dynasty said she began conceiving the show a few years ago and started writing it this summer. But really, she's spent her life developing the piece.

She'll be backed by "awesome musicians," but a one-woman show means just that: it'll just be her and the stage. Dynasty says she's nervous but undaunted.

"I'm writing things then asking myself if I really want to tell folks my business. But I have this crazy desire to connect with people. It's been bigger than the music for me for a long time.

"So, I suppose I find courage in believing that this is necessary for my growth in my personal life and as an artist."

Contact Ernest Hooper at ehooper@tampabay.com. Follow him @hoop4you.