AUTHOR BIO
HATTIE COUSAIN-A WOMAN OF SUBSTANCE
For the first time in television history, the airwaves are open to the full and unrestricted expression of creativity and entrepreneurship in America. In a profession where many find themselves rigidly defined and identified with only a particular visual sty1e, Hattie Cousain is a triple threat- performer/producer/writer who defies constraining labels. Realizing that video and film are important cultural and educational tools Ms. Cousain has forged a unique niche in the business and entertainment communities with her former tour-de-force RAW TALENT cable television show.
The genesis of this venture however, had unfortunate beginnings. While employed fu1l-time in the private sector) Hattie was forced to quit under adverse physical circumstances -a total disability. Yet utilizing faith and perseverance, Hattie sought and prayed for another venue to express her creativity and determination that could be both useful and educational for those coming after her. Thus RAW TALENT was born. Although Hattie had no role models or a carefully thought-out out strategy, she states, "I kept on believing that this (producing the television show) is what God would have me do as part of my service and appreciation to Him." Each show is a different interpretation of her creative gift transformed through the airwaves.
The perky and vivacious 5'6" 135-pound entrepreneur and producer have a rich artistic background. Two years as a Theater Arts major at El Camino College and one year in the Film Acting/Directing Laboratory of Los Angeles' Crossroads Academy. That institution (also a testament to "excellence in the ghetto..."} has spawned a number of successful and noteworthy theater productions, perhaps the most famous is "227" starring Marla Gibbs, formerly of THE JEFFERSONS.
Hattie Cousain Raw Talent has featured such stars as Marla Gibbs and Curtis Bowen of 227, Whitman Mayo formerly of SANFORD AND SON, Jeanette Dubois of GOOD TIMES in addition to athletes, educators, politicians and other influential minority personalities.
The show has defied standard demographics in the Southern California market. Offering an amalgamation of music (often original and previously unrecorded) news, celebrity interviews and public affairs features the show primarily attracted minorities and young men and women under 35 regardless of race. The show has been a career launching pad for some its guests also. Phil Perry. a Los Angeles-based singer and songwriter won a coveted Grammy Award in 1986 for the show's theme song (that he debuted on RAW TALENT). "Music Prayer For Peace." recorded by saxophonist Ernie Watts.
In addition to being a multi-talented individual, Hattie is a doting great-great-grandmother, investing that same untiring love and dedication to her family and friends as she does in her work. She also excels in the business arena. She formed CNT Productions over two years to produce RAW TALENT and also screened literary works for later acquisition and bringing to television. Her concern and love for black people and those issues which affect us deeply was evident in a riveting three -part investigative report on Aids in the black community completed in July. 1987. The show featured a slew of informative and interesting experts: Dr. Wilber Jordan, Director of the Minority AIDS Project -Los Angeles; celebrated black author writer Sylvia Roberts and noted theologian, Dr. Kenneth Ulmer of the Faithful Central Baptist Church. The show also featured Ms. Cousain co-host Charles Gordon Pierce, also a Los Angeles-based musician and filmmaker.
In spite of her past work schedule and the hours spent overseeing various projects. Hattie can be counted on to find time and energy to work with programs benefiting a worthwhile charity, her church and especially working with young people and kids.
Hattie Cousain is currently sharing her love for life by reading aloud passages from her first children's book to elementary school students. The book is entitled "When I Was Little", and it relays the happiness Hattie experienced as a child growing up in rural Louisiana during the Depression.
Hattie Cousain is a well-rounded, sensitive person whose foresight and faith in God have helped her to ascend the ladder of success to the lofty heights of stardom; and if the illumination of stars in the heavens depended on career inputs and achievements -such as Hattie's -it would be safe to say. "the shining light of her star in the galaxy.
of starry bodies would never fade or dim.
PICTURES
School Presentations Photos
