In this episode of The Color Between the Lines, host Esther Dillard speaks with Contessa Gayles, the Emmy-nominated director and producer behind the acclaimed documentary The Debutantes.

Through powerful storytelling and intimate visuals, The Debutantes reimagines the legacy of Black debutante culture—exploring how young women of color use these traditions to assert their identity, build community, and challenge stereotypes.

Gayles discusses the inspiration for the film, the historical context of Black debutante balls, and the deeply personal stories that emerged during production. She also reflects on the importance of centering Black women’s voices in media and what it means to create art that celebrates cultural pride while sparking conversation.

🎧 In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The history and evolution of Black debutante balls
• How The Debutantes reframes a tradition often overlooked in mainstream media
• Why representation and cultural ownership matter in storytelling
• Behind-the-scenes insights from an Emmy-nominated filmmaker
• The power of art to preserve history and inspire the next generation

Whether you love documentaries, Black history, or stories of women reclaiming tradition, this conversation will move and inspire you.

🔔 Subscribe to the podcast for more enlightening talks and join us in exploring how historical narratives shape our future. You can also watch it on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@thecolorbetweenthelines