Interview By Charron Monaye
Cas Sigers has written and produced many popular films. Some of her well-known works include Scheme Queens, Unthinkably Good Things, Where’s the Love, Girlfriends Getaway 1 & 2, Welcome to the Family, and the biopic When Love Kills: The Falicia Blakely Story, which earned two NAACP Image Award nominations. Under her production company, Nina Holiday Entertainment, Cas co-created For Richer or Poorer, Merry Wishmas, Angrily Ever After, Hip Hop Holiday, and T’was the Chaos Before Christmas, which became the highest-rated Christmas film in BET history.
Sigers also directed films like Open, Mediator, and Sugar Plum Twist for Hallmark, and her newest release, The Match, came out in 2024 on AllBlk. In addition to her work in film, Cas is the author of six fiction novels published through Kensington Press. In September of 2024, Cas Sigers released her romantic comedy novel A Girl Named Lilly, and in November, she will follow up with the release of Sycamore Song a drama. Her storytelling skills span across both the screen and the page, showcasing her talent in multiple creative outlets.
The creative spark for both novels and screenplays is similar, but the process varies significantly. For films, which are more visual, I focus on developing the world after crafting the characters. With novels, I begin with the story and then think about the people surrounding the protagonist and how they impact the narrative. I don’t worry much about balancing projects—I simply follow what inspires me in the moment. As a mom, the real challenge lies in balancing being present with my family while living with the characters in my head.
HH: What inspired you to write Sycamore Song? Is there a personal or cultural connection to the story that drew you to this project?
– ADVERTISEMENT –
Living in Atlanta, I’ve encountered people affected by sex trafficking, and one woman’s story in particular stuck with me. She came to America expecting to work for a family but found herself trapped in a trafficking ring. Although I never got her full backstory, I was inspired to create the character Chimwala from this encounter. I’ve also been fascinated by the concept of dowries and wanted to write about a young girl sacrificing her dreams for her family. “Sycamore Song” merges these two ideas into one narrative.
HH: The characters in Sycamore Song seem to carry deep emotional layers. How did you develop them, and what message do you hope readers take away from their journeys?
I’ve immersed myself in stories about the people from and the culture of Malawi and Tanzania, studying the land and culture to ensure accuracy. The emotional layers in my writing stem from basic human needs and desires. Chimwala’s longing for love and respect is something anyone can relate to, no matter their background. Her bond with her sister is drawn from my own family relationships. Authenticity is crucial—when characters are genuine and relatable, you can place them in any setting and still tell a powerful story.
HH: Without giving too much away, can you tell us about a pivotal scene in the book that shaped the direction of the narrative? How did it come to life during the writing process?
One of the most pivotal scenes in Sycamore Song is when Chimwala and her son confront her betrothed. This is the turning point where she decides to stop living in fear, and it is this act of courage that sets her on the path that eventually leads her to America.
HH: With everything you have going on, what is left? What can our readers expect and how can we further support you?
Every day brings a new artistic adventure for me, and I feel so blessed to have a mind that is constantly creating stories. I’ll be releasing a rom-com novel next year, though the title is still a secret. “Scheme Queens 2” is in post-production and will also be released next year, while we’re currently filming a thriller called “Raven’s Eye,” set to air on AllBlk in 2026. Support me by supporting authentic Black stories—when there’s a demand for more of these stories, creators like me can continue producing meaningful content.
– ADVERTISEMENT –
