Ursula Oriana Robinson, a distinguished professor at South Carolina State University and celebrated Toastmasters champion, has made a notable splash in the film industry with her recent role in Tyler Perry’s “Divorce in the Black.”
Her compelling performance has garnered attention and sparked conversations across social media platforms.
Robinson, who has dedicated 25 years to South Carolina State University as a drama program coordinator and associate professor, brings a wealth of expertise to both her academic and artistic pursuits.
With degrees in English, Theater Arts, and an M.F.A. in Acting, she seamlessly blends theoretical knowledge with practical experience.
Beyond her university role, Robinson contributes to the Creative Spiritual Arts Department at Spiritual Foundation Ministries in Orangeburg, South Carolina.
Her involvement in Toastmasters International, where she has won the District 58 Humorous Speech title twice, further showcases her exceptional communication skills.
As the Artistic Director of Ursula O. Robinson Productions (UORP), Robinson has made significant contributions to the arts through her award-winning plays and powerful productions. Her company’s work is renowned for its ability to entertain, educate, and inspire.
In her role in “Divorce in the Black,” which premiered on Prime Video on July 11, Robinson portrays Linda Bertrand, a key character in a pivotal church scene.
The film, which features stars like Megan Good, Cory Hardrict, Debbi Morgan, and Richard Lawson, has quickly become a topic of discussion.
Despite its impressive 498 million minutes of viewing in its first four days and a No. 3 spot on Nielsen’s Top 10 streaming chart for the week of July 8-14, the film has faced mixed reviews and holds a 0% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, Tyler Perry’s lowest to date.
Critics have varied opinions on the film’s execution, with Andrew Lawrence of The Guardian noting that the film’s title suggests a lack of subtlety, and Mary Kassel of Screen Rant criticizing its disjointed narrative.
However, Robinson’s performance has been a bright spot amidst the criticism.
Reflecting on her film experience, Robinson shared her joy in forming strong connections with her co-stars, continuing to engage through a group chat. She also praised Richard Lawson, who not only mentored her on set but will also work with her students.
Balancing her roles as both professor and actress, Robinson explains how her industry experiences enrich her teaching:
“Everything that I do while I’m away is to benefit you. What I bring back is current industry knowledge, giving my students access to the latest insights.”
As Ursula Oriana Robinson continues to excel in her dual careers, she embodies the vibrant cultural spirit of South Carolina.
Her contributions to both academia and film highlight the state’s rich artistic scene and demonstrate how local talent can achieve success on a broader stage.
With future projects, including her role in Tyler Perry’s “Beauty in Black,” Robinson’s career trajectory underscores her dedication to both personal achievement and the cultural enrichment of her community.
