The Ground Ain't Leveled Noway is a full-length play set in a neighborhood named Third Ward, a
legendary community in Houston, Texas. At first glance, Third Ward appears to be a marginalized area
concentrated with Black Americans and small mom-and-pop shops and diners. But upon closer
examination, it translates to much more than that. It becomes a fine example of how a community is
critical to shaping the lives and culture of any people. Through the eyes of the playwright, Donyail Linsey,
we are introduced to a host of colorful characters who take us on a journey of self-discovery. Led by
Clancy, we meet his family and friends, all of whom frequent a short-order restaurant affectionately
named The Mudflat. In this restaurant, we are served up a large helping of more than just good food.
Here, we learn why family and friends are so important to our lives and our development. When an
illness strikes Clancy's older brother Sid, it both threatens to destroy as well as provides an opportunity
for true unification. The language of the play is as colorful as its characters, providing a glimpse at the
dialectical discourse of a rapidly vanishing way of communication between old friends.
About the Author
Donyail Linsey is a playwright from Houston, Texas. He has penned plays such as Black Crows and
Spirits of The Mississippi River. At Texas Southern University, he serves as Professor of Technical
Theatre, Director, and Scenic Designer. Professor Linsey holds a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and a
Master of Arts, also in Theatre.
