Plans are for a September trip ... Watch Out!

\ Who says that you can't come home again?

Certainly not Malika Jones, aka Ms. Claudeen Peabody, who saw more than 500 people attend her play “Ms. Peabody in the Classroom” last weekend at the historic Rylander Theatre.

For Jones, it was a dream come true to bring the play to her native Sumter County.

"We have done the play a number of times in the Atlanta area, but to do it in the place where I grew up was very special," said Jones. "There was so much energy in the air and the whole cast was excited to be a part of this experience. To have good crowds at both shows (3 and 7 p.m.) is such a wonderful feeling and I thank everyone who came out to support us!"

Attendees of both shows were treated to other talent, much of it home grown. With Mistress of Ceremony Comfort Green presiding over both shows, the fans were treated to performances from the Friendship Youth Choir, Allen Chapel A.M.E. Youth Dance Ministry and Classic Example, a group of kids from Atlanta that performed spoken word and who were directed by Americus native Brandon Simpson.

Last but not least, attendees were treated to the sounds of CraigLewis, made up of Atlanta native Zuri Craig and Jeff Lewis, a native of Americus. The duo brought the house down with their melodic tunes, and showed why one of their YouTube clips has more than 500,000 views!

However, the star of the night was definitely Ms. Claudeen Peabody, who reminded the audience what old school teachers stand for and how they still have a place in today's society.

For Jones, it was a chance to perform in front of family and friends for the first time, and also showcase local talent.

"It was very important that we get people like Brandon and Jeff as well as the local churches involved," said Jones. "Like I have said before, we have so much talent from this area, and now is the time to let everyone know about it. I truly believe this is only the beginning.”

Jones said that a DVD of the play will be on sale very soon, and anyone who wants to be put on the Ms. Claudeen Peabody mailing list can e-mail her at trymspeabody@gmail.com. She also encourages anyone who saw the play or heard about the play to e-mail with comments and suggestions.

"This was a great start, but there is so much more to come," said Jones. "We plan on being back very soon, and we will use a lot of local talent for the upcoming shows. It will be awesome, and I can't wait!"