Charron Monaye Interview
Cas Sigers has written and produced many popular films. Some of her credits 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 nominations Image Award. 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 her history BET.
Sigers also directed films such as Open, Mediator and Sugar Plum Twist for Hallmark, and her most recent release, The Match, was released in 2024 on AllBlk. In addition to her film work, Cass is the author of six fantasy novels published through Kensington Press. In September 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 extend to both screen and page, showcasing her talent in multiple creative spaces.
The creative spark for both novels and screenplays is similar, but the process varies significantly. For the films, which are more visual, I focus on developing the world after the characters are created. With novels, I start with the story and then think about the people who surround the protagonist and how they affect the narrative. I don’t worry too much about balancing projects — I just follow what inspires me at the moment. As a mom, the real challenge is 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?
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Living in Atlanta, I have met people affected by sex trafficking, and one woman’s story has stuck with me in particular. She came to America expecting to work for a family, but found herself caught up in a trafficking ring. Although I never had her full story, 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 woman who sacrifices her dreams for her family. “Sycamore Song” merges these two ideas into one narrative.
HH: The characters inside Sycamore Song seems to carry deep emotional layers. How did you develop them and what message do you hope readers take away from their journey?
I have immersed myself in stories about the people and 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 yearning for love and respect is something anyone can relate to, regardless of their background. Her bond with her sister comes from my own family connections. Authenticity is key—when characters are genuine and relatable, you can place them in any environment 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 fiancé. 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 all that you have to do, 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 will be releasing a rom-com novel next year, although the title is still a secret. “Scheme Queens 2” is in post-production and will also be released next year, and we are currently shooting a thriller called “Raven’s Eye”, which will air on AllBlk in 2026. Support me by supporting authentic Black stories – when they exist By demand for more of these stories, creators like me can continue to produce meaningful content.
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