Leon and his Atlanta-based True Colors Theatre Company present the annual event that invites teenage actors from across the country to perform one of late playwright Wilson's monologues in New York City. The event is held at the August Wilson Theatre.
The film features interviews with Leon and numerous award-winning actors, including Denzel Washington, Samuel L. Jackson, Phylicia Rashad, Viola Davis, Jasmine Guy, Anthony Mackie, Doris Kearns Goodwin and Ruben Santiago-Hudson.
Jennifer Gordon Thompson executive-produced the film that is directed and produced by the Horne Brothers (Tyson, Byron and Ryon).
According to the directors, "In a new age where arts education is considered expendable in a declining economy, Leon is determined to use his celebrity and influence to expose kids across the country to the wonderful world of theatre, giving everyday kids the courage to dream big. 'The Start of Dreams' is packed with Hollywood's elite weighing in on this important art form and what it means to humanity."
It will be screened as part of California's Pan African Film Festival on Feb. 18. Visit paff.org. Here's a look at the extended trailer: