Port of Harlem magazine makes its stage debut in the highly anticipated premiere of Tyrone Colbert's play, “The Waiting Room.” The play mirrors the real-life story of Port of Harlem magazine contributor Tyrone Colbert and Ivy Alston. As followers of Colbert’s stories in Port of Harlem’s “From The Other Side,” readers may know Austin met Colbert in the pages of Port of Harlem while reading a then-print issue at a local buffet.

The play focuses on a woman who falls in love with a man who is incarcerated, and forms an unlikely bond with three women during her visits to her future husband, who is incarcerated.

In 1990, Colbert was incarcerated in Jessup, Maryland, following a struggle with substance abuse that began during his military service in Germany. On the other side of the brick wall and barbed-wire fence, he experienced a profound calling to tell his story and share the lessons he learned through hardship, failure, redemption, and faith. He picked up a pen and began transforming his experiences into powerful narratives.

In 2008, Colbert received a letter from a reader who had been moved by one of his articles in Port of Harlem magazine. That letter marked the beginning of a meaningful relationship with Alston, a Pentagon employee whose unwavering support would profoundly impact his life. For fourteen years, Alston visited him every weekend, offering encouragement, friendship, and hope. Her steadfast presence reminded him that he was not forgotten and helped sustain him through the daily challenges of incarceration.

During those visits, Alston shared stories from women she met in the prison waiting room—stories of loyalty, sacrifice, resilience, heartbreak, and enduring love. Recognizing the extraordinary nature of these experiences, she suggested they would make a compelling stage play. Colbert agreed.

As a free man, Colbert will present the long-awaited play Sunday, September 20, at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Writer’s Center, 4508 Walsh Street, Bethesda, MD. Seating is general - no assigned seating. Parking is free, directly across the street from The Writer's Center.