From childhood Barry S. McLeod had the gift of entertainment stirring inside of him. Totally unaware of this reality, he drew pictures of various images (many people), while portraying them in his mind. Behind closed doors, just playing around he became some of them. His imagination was vast. It was his little secret he kept safely hidden for many of his youthful school years.
After being discharged from the Armed Forces under honorable conditions in 1979, Barry returned to his home in Gainesville, Florida and began playing bass guitar with Charles Jackson and the Showstoppers. Later he played bass with the Rhonda James Quintet. With a repertoire of Top 40, Jazz and R&B, they performed in several popular clubs/lounges in Gainesville, FL.
In 1984 Barry started his own fashion troupe: The BS Mack Fashion Show. In this capacity he wrote original music and skits, choreographed scenes and routines, directed and played bass guitar and keyboards, cast talent, all while conducting the business of performing for local charitable organizations including the Black Graduate Student Organization at the University of Florida. He also made all the clothing arrangements from the Oaks Mall stores. In preparation for the shows Barry did the makeup and hair for the models.
From 1985 through the mid 90s Barry organized and performed in such R&B bands as Karizma and Obsession, performing inside the Stephen C. OConnell Center, NAS Jax, numerous Class and Family reunions and nightclubs as well as wedding receptions and birthday parties. During this same period he also DJd (on the side) and played with other bands/styles, including soft country rock and gospel.
In 1992 he opened other local businesses while writing commercials for radio and cable television, recording and producing a variety of radio commercials, including voiceovers.
In 1997 Barry began to fade away from performing in bands and gradually absorbed himself into the world of screenwriting. Having always wanted to make movies, he became very passionate about the process. Some of his scripts have placed quarter-finalist in competitions (in Hollywood, California) and have been considered by such movie production companies as Atlas Entertainment (Three Kings, 12 Monkeys, Sister Act 2 & Cool Runnings) and Wishmaker Films (Dr. Strangelove Series, [one] starring James Earl Jones).
Following this came three self-published books: Men-Or-Pause (relationship), The Heart Inside My Rib (poetic relationship dialogue) and Lord, Did You Push the Pause Button on Me? (A personal bout with depression, anger and bitterness)
Within five years Barry had written a dozen screenplays in different genres. Most recently, his new suspense thriller script The House of April 1st has been requested by reputable production companies in California. He also has several theater plays under his belt.
Barry has directed local and name talent while producing his own original plays. Thus far, he has been well received in such cities as Gainesville, Jacksonville, Orlando, Lake City, Lawtey, Williston and Tampa, Florida, also Valdosta and Columbus, GA.
His new play A Ram in the Bush is completely hilarious and full of inspiration and positive substance. Step-Daddy was also a hit. Santa Fe Community College in Gainesville hosted and produced this faith-based comedy that sent the full to capacity audiences raving. When Heaven Says Yes delivers a solid punch as well, stirring emotion and bringing tears throughout the crowd. Just Give Me a Drink of Water! a hilarious one man act, is poised to cause a stir in all major markets. Barry also wrote, directed and produced the Men-Or-Pause series Parts 1, 2 & 3, Divorce N Us, Can You Hear Me Now?, Every Other Monday, and several plays for local churches.
Mr. McLeod continues to write from his heart, so be on the lookout for his music, plays and of course, in the future movies. Oh, and by the way he continues to own and operate Amani Hair Salon (21 + years).
For speaking engagements or to host any of his productions please call Toll Free at 1 877 371-2702 or local 352 371-2700.