THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1994, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Thursday, September 1, 1994 TAG: 9408310195
SECTION: NORFOLK COMPASS PAGE: 03 EDITION: FINAL
LENGTH: Medium: 68 lines
Renee Williams-Walke has combined two of her loves - children and entertainment - into one successful venture.
A singer, dancer, and choreographer, Williams-Walke has appeared in the movies ``Navy SEALs'' and ``Mother's Day'' in addition to Cox Cable productions, industry films and live theater.
She also spends much of her time working with disadvantaged children. She is the director of a number of children groups in the Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing areas with the theme of performing arts against violence. The groups, created as a vehicle to relate positive messages through the performing arts, sing, dance, do improvisation and perform in videos.
She also serves as the artistic director of The Cease Fire Kids of America, an after-school program created to provide positive role models for inner-city youth and to initiate alternative actions to abuse, crime and violence.
Name: Renee Williams-Walke
Nickname: Miss Renee
What brought you to Norfolk: My first contracted job working with inner-city kids.
Birthplace: Winston-Salem, N.C.
Birthdate: March 27
Occupation: Creative program specialist for youth
Marital Status: Married to Alexander L. Walke Jr.
Children: Three: Raphael, Monique and Alexander III
Last Book Read: ``The Measure of Our Success: A Letter to My Children & Yours'' by Marian Aidelman, directed of Children's Defense Fund.
Favorite movie: This summer it's ``Forrest Gump.'' What a focused man and what an impact (positive) he had on so many lives.
If you could trade places for just one day with anyone in the world, who would it be and why? Whoopi Goldberg, because I would then be the international spokesperson for The Cease Fire Kids of America, who are calling for a cease- fire in the war against children around the globe . . . until cease becomes peace.
Biggest accomplishment: It's never ending . . . because through my work I continuously provide the tools of empowerment to our disadvantaged youth.
Most embarrassing moment: Embarrassing moment? Just picture me playing the role of 90-year-old Jane Pittman at the Billie Holliday Theatre and my hair piece falling off - yes, that's right.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? I would clone myself 35 times to be able to work with inner-city kids.
Perfect way to spend the day: With my family.
Favorite vacation spot: Bahamas.
Pet peeve: Negative thinking takes too much of my positive energy. Let's move on.
First job: Directing children's musical theater performances.
Worst job: There's no such thing in my case.
Hobbies: Writing music and scripts.
Favorite restaurant: White table cloth and elegance and wonderful cuisine.
What do you like most about Norfolk? Being a part of the opportunities for cultural expansion.
What do you like least about Norfolk? No answer. ILLUSTRATION: Photo
Performer Renee Williams-Walke spends much of her time working with
disadvantaged children.
by CNB