Oleto, The Albin Of Vencalle QUICK REFERENCE
Act I: MONEY IN THY PURSE
Scene I: COURAGE & CHARM
Scene II: FAIR THAN WHITE
Scene III: MONEY IN THY PURSE
Act II: REPUTATION
Scene I: TEMPEST / CEPROREADIES
Scene II: DEAR HEART / INREVERLY / ME & YOU
Scene III: WINE & WIT / REPUTATION
Act III: DOUBT
Scene I: RELUCTANT SUITOR
Scene II: DOUBT / DANGEROUS CONCEITS
Scene III: LIVIN’ REASON / THE HANDKERCHIEF
Scene IV: HAND TO HAND
INTERVAL
Act IV: OCULAR PROOF
Scene I: GREEN-EYED MONSTER
Scene II: FITS OF RAGE / OCULAR PROOF
Scene III: THE PACT
Scene IV: OUT OF SIGHT
Scene V: POLLUTED FOUNTAIN
Act V: THE CAUSE
Scene I: FIDELITY / WILLOW
Scene II: DEVOTION / THESE MEN
Scene III: DARK OF NIGHT
Scene IV: THE CAUSE / LOOK UPON THY WORK
Act VI: QUARTERED
Scene I: QUARTERED
Scene II: CURTAIN END
Heralds
Kenneth Johnson, William Lightfoot, Rediet Yonael ♫ Ғ §
Ensembles
(Soldiers, Servants, Citizens Of Vencalle & Cepro)
IV: Jaylyn Adams, Khadijatou Beverly-Diallo ◊, Sydni Burse, Daneya Celestin ◊, Amanda Cole Ғ ◊, Kayla Daniel Ғ ◊, Javon Davis, Jamelah Edwards Ғ, Amina Garland ◊, Mya Hayes, Madison Hebron Ғ, Amari Mack Ғ ◊, Imade Oriyomi, Jordan Ray, Mckenzie Tatem Ғ ◊, Riyan Ware Ғ ◊, Amira Wilson Ғ & Felicia Worthy
III: Nina Allen, Amaiya Baptiste, Asia Crosby Ғ London Forrest Ғ, Journey Gardner, Makayla
Hamilton Ғ, Chayse Herndon-Smith Ғ ◊, Mckenzie Jones, Ashley Nkongchu, Alana North, Hadassah Ofori-Ansah, Kendall Petty, Sanaa Rainer, Gabrielle Rhone Ғ, Jada Robinson Ғ ◊, Taylor
Thomas Ғ & Casside Wooten
II: Trinity Brantley, Kiara Brown Ғ, Amira Cannaday, Gabrielle Clavell Ғ ◊, Derrai Counts, Jayla-Skye Douglas, Sterling Harriott Ғ, Symone Hilliard, Celine James Ғ ◊, Kolbi James, Zuri Kenyatte, Akilah Kynard Ғ, Chloe Littlejohn, Syann Makey Ғ ◊, Ryan Smith Ғ, Lauren Thezard Ғ, Jazlynn Williams Ғ & Gabrielle Wood Ғ
I: Temple Adams, Daisy-Danae Barnes, Zoey Briscoe-Sneed, Logan Clifton, Alexandria Cuadra, Haleigh Gloster, Naomi King, Dakotah Lovelace, Ava Mccarley, Kaylee Mcgee, Brianna Mckenzie, Victoria Montgomery, Sydnee Neal, Kayle Obeng, Maya Stewart, Daisy Tanyidah Ғ & Chloe Turner
Orchestra
IV: Jason Adams, Emmanuel Awoseye ♫, Joseph Davis, Noah Hamilton, Jahfari Joseph, Mohamed Kabia, Mark Pines, Jerrin Poyner, Arugula Roberts & Wesley Robinson
III: Michael J Dickerson, Kennedy Fleming, Key’ontae Glenn, Riley Green, Taj Johnson, Janjay Reeves, Bryson Shelton, Trent Taylor & Xavier Timmons
II: Jacob Gregory, Tyler Hawkins, Andre Jackson, Christian Littlejohn, Julian Vaughn Ғ & Ethnan Williams
I: Charles Anthony, Donovan Barnes, Dered Davis, Boima King & Micah Tate Ғ
Tri-M Music Honor Society = ♫
Fine Arts Diploma Endorsement = Ғ
International Thespian Society = §
National Honor Society for Dance Arts = ◊
National Art Honor Society = ,
Act I: MONEY IN THY PURSE
Scene I: COURAGE & CHARM
Synopsis: Oleto woes Densimoane and secretly ties the knot. Rodega and Igoma discuss Igoma’s offer to help him with Densimoane. Igoma tells Rodega that he hates Oleto because the latter has promoted Cayiso to be his lieutenant instead of him, even though Cayiso has much less experience. The two men stand outside Babatunde’s house and shout to wake him up. From the shadows, they tell him about his daughter’s secret marriage to Oleto. Babatunde is angered. He recognizes Rodega and solicits his help in finding the couple and apprehending Albin.
Performers: (Sankofa Company & Vocalists)
Khadijatou Beverly-Diallo, Kennedy Bowen, Daneya Celestin, Jakei Cobb, Amanda Cole, Kayla Daniel, London Forrest, Journey Gardner, Amina Garland, Madison Hebron, Chayse Herndon-Smith, Celine James, Amari Mack, Syann Mackey, Imade Oriyomi, Jada Robinson, McKenzie Tatem, Lauren Thezard, Riyan Ware, Jazlynn Williams & Zora Williams (Kenneth Johnson & Rediet Yonael)
Music: Ra / Saya / Yeke Yeke By: Nathan Lanier / Sona Jobarteh / Mory Kante’
Costume: Kim Collins
Choreography: Mian Hairston
Scene II: FAIR THAN WHITE
Synopsis: Igoma tells Oleto that Babatunde knows about his marriage but Oleto dismisses this. Cayiso arrives with a message from the Oyo, asking Oleto to come to the Senate to talk about the war in Cepro. Just as they are about to leave, Babatunde and Rodega arrive with soldiers to arrest Oleto for bewitching Densimoane. When he hears that the Oyo has called for Oleto, Babatunde asks his men to bring Oleto before the Oyo and the war council. Upon their arrival at the council, both Babatunde and Oleto present their cases. Densimoane is summoned and she tells the Senate she married Oleto for love and her duty is now to him rather than her father. Densimoane asks to go with Oleto to Cepro and Babatunde warns Oleto about his daughter.
Performers: (Ensemble III, IV & Honors Sankofa Plus)
Jaylyn Adams, Nina Allen, Amaiya Baptiste, Khadijatou Beverly-Diallo, Sydni Burse, Daneya Celestin, Jakei Cobb, Amanda Cole, Asia Crosby, Kayla Daniel, Javon Davis, Jamela Edwards, London Forrest, Journey Gardner, Amina Garland, Makayla Hamilton, Mya Hayes, Madison Hebron, Chayse Herndon-Smith, McKenzie Jones, Amari Mack, Ashley Nkongchu, Alana North, Hadassah Ofori-Ansah, Imade Oriyomi, Kendall Petty, Sanaa Rainer, Jordan Ray, Gabrielle Rhone, Jada Robinson, McKenzie Tatem, Taylor Thomas, Riyan Ware, Amira Wilson, Casside Wooten & Felicia Worthy
Music: Doundounba Traditional Music By: (Orchestra III & IV)
Jason Adams, Emmanuel Awoseye, Joseph Davis, MJ Dickerson, Kennedy Fleming, Key’ontae Glenn, Riley Green, Noah Hamilton, Taj Johnson, Jahfari Joseph, Mohamed Kabia, Mark Pines, Jerrin Poyner, Janjay Reeves, Arugula Roberts, Wesley Robinson, Bryson Shelton, Trent Taylor, Xavier Timmons & Immanuel Williams
Costume: Kim Collins & Ousmane Seck
Choreography: Victor Bah & Mian Hairston
Scene II: DEAR HEART / INREVERLY / ME & YOU
Synopsis: Oleto’s herald announces a party to celebrate the triumph over the Tarukas and Oleto’s marriage to Densimoane. The party begins with Densimoane’s romantic dance / advance to Oleto. Others join in. Oleto leaves Cayiso and Igoma in charge of the party and goes to spend time alone with Densimoane
Performers: (Refer to Sankofa Company)
Music: Meeya / Kitale / Cherry Blossom By: Sona Jobarteh / Sam One / Matthew Halsall
Costume: Kim Collins & Michael Murray
Choreography: Faith Harrison & Patrick Casimir
Scene III: WINE & WIT / REPUTATION
Synopsis: Igoma convinces Cayiso to drink even though Cayiso protests. He acquiesces and gets drunk. As planned, Rodega provokes Cayiso to fight. Monato tries to stop the fight but Cayiso fights him instead and injures him. Oleto arrives and demands to know what is going on. Igoma recounts the incident. Oleto learns of Cayiso’s drunkenness and fighting, and demotes him. Believing Igoma as a friend, Cayiso confides in him and solicits help in getting back in Oleto’s favor. Igoma counsels him to ask Densimoane for help in convincing Oleto to give him back his job. Cayiso agrees, thanks Igoma, and leaves. Igoma tells the audience that as Densimoane intercedes on Cayiso’s behalf, he will pour pestilence into Oleto's ear and create a dangerous doubt. Rodega arrives, complaining that he is bruised from the fight, has no money left, and thinks it’s time to go home. Igoma again assures him the plan is working well.
Performers: WINE & WIT (Refer to TAMD III)
REPUTATION: Amina Garland & Key’ontae Glenn
Music: Wassakumbe Traditional Music By: (Refer to Orchestra III)
Costume: Kim Collins & Ousmane Seck
Choreography: Victor Bah & Mian Hairston
Act III: DOUBT
Scene I: RELUCTANT SUITOR
Synopsis: The morning after the fight, Cayiso gathers some entertainers close to Densimoane’s bedchamber to play for her attention. He asks Emiliano to help him speak to Densimoane. Emiliano tells Cayiso that Densimoane is already speaking up for him to Oleto. Densimoane comes out and joins in the merriment. She reassures Cayiso of her undiminished commitment to his advocacy.
Performers: (Refer to Ensemble I, II, III & Honors Sankofa)
Music: Djole Traditional Music By: (Refer to Orchestra I, II & III)
Costume: Adama Goree Shop (Chicago)
Choreography: Victor Bah & Mian Hairston
Act IV: OCULAR PROOF
Scene I: GREEN EYED MONSTER
Synopsis: We are reintroduced to the master manipulator who toys with unsuspecting victims and cast them to eternal damnation. The Green-Eyed Monster is the deceiver’s own creation. Oleto’s nightmares continue.
Performers: (Refer to Ensemble IV)
Music: Traditional Fusion Music
Performers: (Orchestra IV)
Costume: Kim Collins
Choreography: Ava Garland & Jordan Gregory
By: Shelton Gordon
Scene II: FITS OF RAGE / OCULAR PROOF
Synopsis: Pretending to be supportive, Iago continues to wind up Oleto about Densimoane and Cayiso until Oleto is so disturbed he collapses in an epileptic fit. When he comes round, Iago tells him to hide and listen as he talks to Cayiso about Densimoane. Igoma jokes with Cayiso about his relationship with Benaca. Benaca arrives angrily, returning the handkerchief to Cayiso. Oleto is convinced that Cayiso was laughing about his affair with Densimoane and that she gave him the handkerchief.
Performers: (Refer to Honors Sankofa Plus)
Music: Snake By: Gabrielle Roth & The Mirrors
Costume: Victor Bah
Choreography: Samuel Gaines & Rachael Sutherland
Scene III: THE PACT
Synopsis: Oleto is determined to kill Densimoane that night. He will kill his wife and Igoma will kill Cayiso. They make a pact and commit it and themselves to each other as loyal friends forever.
Performers: (Refer to Ensemble III, IV & Honors Sankofa Plus)
Music: Bawa Traditional Music By: (Orchestra III & IV)
Costume: Victor Bah & Michael Murray
Choreography: Victor Bah & Mian Hairston
Scene IV: OUT OF SIGHT
Synopsis: Densimoane enters with Lodiko, who is welcomed with song & dance. He brings a letter from Vencalle telling Oleto to travel home and leave Cayiso in command of Cepro. As Oleto reads, Densimoane and Lodiko talk about the disagreement between Cayiso and Oleto. Oleto becomes so angry at Densimoane for defending Cayiso that he hits her, insults her, and yells at her. He leaves, after attempting to regain his composure. Lodiko is shocked at Oleto’s behavior. Igoma suggests that Oleto’s behavior has become increasingly erratic.
Performers: (Refer to Ensemble I, II & Honors Sankofa)
Music: Mandjani Traditional Music By: (Refer to Orchestra I & II)
Costume: Kim Collins
Choreography: Victor Bah & Mian Hairston
Scene III: DARK OF NIGHT
Synopsis: On a very dark night, Igoma leads a reluctant Rodega to where he can find Cayiso. Rodega attacks Cayiso but Cayiso stabs him. Igoma stabs Cayiso in the leg from behind then runs away. Oleto hears Cayiso’s yells and is convinced that Iago has kept his word. Thinking that Iago has killed Cayiso, he is now convinced his cause is setkill Densimoane. Lodiko and Grenti hear the yelling and decide to fetch help. They meet Iago who pretends to be horrified at Cayiso’s injury. Iago secretly finds the injured Rodega and kills him. Benaca enters and is distraught at Cayiso’s injuries. Iago insinuates that she was to blame for the attack. Emiliano enters and Iago sends her to tell Oleto and Densimoane what has happened. Iago acknowledges the importance of the night to his plot.
Performers: (Refer to Honors Sankofa Plus)
Music: Runnin (Feat. A$SAP Rocky & Jacob Banks) By: Ludwig Goransson (Greed II)
Costume: Kim Collins & Michael Murray
Choreography: Khadijatou Beverly-Diallo & McKenzie Tatem
Scene IV: THE CAUSE / LOOK UPON THY WORK
Synopsis: Densimoane is asleep on her bed. Oleto kisses her and she wakes up. He tells her to pray and urges her to confess that she gave the handkerchief to Cayiso. She denies it but he refuses to believe her. She pleads for her life but he suffocates her. He hears Emiliano calling him and lets her in. She tells him that Cayiso killed Rodega and that Cayiso lives. Emiliano hears Densimoane calling out and finds her just as she dies. Emiliano is shocked at her husband’s involvement. She yells for help and Monato, Grenti, and Iago rush in. Emiliano confronts Iago, who admits he told Oleto that Densimoane was unfaithful with Cayiso and tries to stop her talking. Finally, Oleto realizes the truth. Iago stabs Emilia and runs away. Monato runs after him. Oleto is arrested. Before they can take him away, Oleto asks that they speak of one that loved not wisely, but too well, and threw a pearl away richer than all his tribe. Then he stabs himself, kisses Densimoane, and dies.
Performers: THE CAUSE: Jakei Cobb & Riyan Ware
LOOK UPON THY WORK: (Refer to Sankofa Company)
Music: It Is The Cause / Death Of Desdemona / Les racines du reve / Battle Of Qadesh
By: Charlie Mole / Henry Torgue & Serge Houppin / Sona Jobarteh
Costume: Kim Collins
Choreography: Victor Bah & Patrick Casimir / Amina Garland & Amari Mack
Act VI: CURTAIN
Scene I: QUARTERED
Synopsis: Igoma is punished.
Performers: (Refer to Sankofa Company)
Music: Othello (Feat. Rocco Palladino & Charlie Stacey) By: Yussef Dayes (Duality Album)
Costume: Kim Collins
Choreography: Mian Hairston
Scene II: CURTAIN
Synopsis: In Appreciation & Celebration
Performers: (Refer to Ensemble I, II, III & IV)
Music: Djole Traditional Music By: (Refer to Orchestra I, II, III & IV)
Costume: Adam Goree Shop (Chicago)
Choreography: Victor Bah & Mian Hairston
RIYAN “RADIANCE” WARE ‘25 -
Densimoane (Desdemona)
Riyan is a Classical Dance Scholarship awardee who has been dancing since she was three. She began her training at local dance studios in ballet, jazz, tap and modern dances. She is currently enrolled in Honors Dance Performance II, Traditional African Music & Dance IV, and Honors Sankofa Company. Her training and performance experience are extensive. Some highlights include intensives in New York with the Dance Theater Of Harlem, Alvin Ailey, and years of foundational work at the Washington Ballet. She has participated in artistry development projects and dance productions for local and out of state dance companies and theatres. On The Bishop McNamara Stage, Riyan has participated in all four major spring dance productions; Dance All About it, What Moves Us, BMHS Spirit of Dance and HERstory. She played the voice of Nina Simone in Voices In Exile, dual roles as Dancer/Narrator in Yaa Asantewaa & The Battle Of The Golden Stool, and as Maya in MAYA, Phenomenal Woman (first in the history of the program). In the Theatre program, Riyan played the roles of Meg March in Little Women, a Hot Box Girl in Guys and Dolls, and Lily, in Annie, where she was afforded the opportunity and responsibility as a featured cast member and the first student fall musical choreographer. Riyan is the President of National Honors Society for Dance Arts (NHSDA), captain of the dance team, and serves as its representative in the Student Athletic Leadership Council. She is the founder and current President of the Aspiring Entertainers of McNamara (AIEM) Club, which aims to promote exemplary character, moral compass, and integrity to aspiring performing artists and athletes as they work on their dreams and aspirations for the future. Riyan plans to major in business and with a minor in musical theatre and dance in college. She is excited to play the role of Densimoane (Densimoane) in Sankofa’s adaptation of Shakespeare’s Othello, The Moor Of Venice, in Oleto; The Albin Of Vencalle.
KHADIJATOU BEVERLY-DIALLO ‘25 -
Rodega (Roderigo)
Khadijatou is an enthusiastic performer in the Dance programs at Bishop McNamara. Khadijatou has been in dance training since three and theater since ten, primarily with the Paula Brown Performing Arts Center under the tutelage of Paula Brown. She has engaged in pre-professional & professional intensives, workshops, and performances. Two examples are participating in the Kennedy Center’s Dance Lab and performing during the Kennedy Center’s National Dance Day. She started honing her performance craft by participating in the PBPAC Baby Boomer’s Theater productions of West Side Story, Hairspray, & The Lion King. She is a member of Honors Dance Performance II., Honors Sankofa, and Traditional African Music & Dance IV. Khadijatou has been in four Classical Dance Productions, Dance All About It, What Moves Us, BMHS Spirit of Dance and HERstory, as well as the Sankofa Productions, Yaa Asantewaa: The Warrior Queen and Maya: Phenomenal Woman. She has been a contributing Honors student choreographer in both programs. In addition to dancing, Khadijatou is an advanced figure skater and volunteer skating coach. Khadijatou loves to entertain and enlighten her audience through her artistic expression, and is grateful for the support of her village, including her McNamara family. She is looking forward to playing the role of Rodega in Sankofa’s dance drama adaptation of Shakespeare's famous tragedy of Othello, The Moor Of Venice. She hopes to go to college in New York City to pursue a degree in comparative literature or international relations. She will continue to dance there as well.
DANEYA CELESTIN ‘25 - Monato (Montano), & Oleto’s Conscience Daneya is an emerging dance artist, Honors student, and a scholarship awardee in the Classical Dance program. In addition to her classical training, she has participated in dance team, cheerleading, Honors Sankofa Company, and Traditional African Music and Dance. She has participated in all of these school activities while honing her craft at Studio Bleu Dance Center (2020-2023) and Koin and Co. in New York City (2023-Present), previously attending Dancemakers Inc (2010-2020). Additionally, she is signed with MSA Agency (2023-Present) New York / Los Angeles. Since the age of three, Daneya has dedicated her life to her passion for dance by committing 30-40 hours each week to genres such as, but not limited to, ballet, pointe, jazz, modern, tap, hip-hop, ballroom, and contemporary. Daneya has had the opportunity to tour with Artists Simply Human Dance Convention (2021-2023) and Revel Dance Convention (2021-2022) as a faculty assistant, traveling to twenty plus cities and engaging with dancers all around the country. She has graced the stage at The UniverSoul Circus, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, and the Richmond Dance Festival. Her dedication has earned her scholarships to elite programs, including Complexions Contemporary Ballet intensive and Joffrey Ballet intensive and training program. In 2021, Sports Illustrated recognized Daneya as an emerging talent in the world of dance, solidifying her reputation as one to watch.
JADA ROBINSON ‘26 - Lodiko (Lodoviko)
Jada is an Honors student and proud dancer. She has been dancing for slightly over five years now. She began her training at Dance Dimensions, and soon became a competitive dancer under the direction of Dakiya Lambert. She has also acquired further training at the Divine Dance Institute under Amanda Standard. She has taken several intensives with the Divine Dance Institute. She is a scholarship recipient for both Classical Dance and Traditional African Music & Dance programs. She is the only junior in the Honors Sankofa Company amongst seniors. Amongst her performance experiences are two Fine Arts Christmas Festivals, two Spring Classical Dance productions named What Moves Us and BMHS Spirit of Dance. She has also participated as part of the ensemble in Sankofa’s Yaa Asantewaa and the Battle for the Golden Stool and MAYA, Phenomenal Woman. She has represented her Dance programs in performances during Open Houses and Recruitment Trips. Outside of school, Jada has pre-professional training and performance experiences with several dance academies and programs. She was recently a cast member for the Dance Institute of Washington’s Spirit of Kwanzaa under the direction of Ashanté Green. She is also a proud member of the BMHS varsity dance team, The National Honor Society (NHS), Fine Arts Diploma Endorsement program (F.A.D.E.), National Honor Society for Dance Arts (NSHDA), and the National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS). Lodiko is her first featured role in Sankofa.
JOURNEY GARNER ‘26 - Grenti (Gratiano)
Journey started dancing at a very young age. She acquired training in ballet, jazz, modern, and contemporary styles before enrolling at Bishop McNamara. She added West African dance technique when she joined the Traditional African Music and Dance program in her freshman year as a scholarship awardee. She has since also been a member of Sankofa Company. She participated as an ensemble member in Sankofa’s Yaa Asantewaa and The Battle Of The Golden Stool and MAYA, Phenomenal Woman. She also performed at the 2024 Fine Arts Christmas Festival. Journey is a member of the varsity volleyball team. She is excited to play the role of Grenti (Gratiano) in Oleto; The Albin Of Vencalle (Othello, The Moor Of Venice)
KAYLA DANIEL ‘25 - Lady In Waiting & Officer
Kayla began her dance journey at the age of three at a community center in District Heights. Recognized early for her strength, talent, and potential, she was encouraged to explore gymnastics. However, it didn’t quite suit her, which led to cheerleading. She excelled in cheerleading but always had an undeniable talent for dance. She enrolled in the Washington Ballet, where she trained in ballet, jazz, tap, modern dance, and earned special roles in productions like The Nutcracker. Her training and pre-professional performance experiences continued during her affiliation with ZD Dance Academy’s competitive team. She has also done dance intensive work with the Alvin Ailey Summer Intensive program. Kayla joined the Dance community at Bishop McNamara in her freshman year. She is a current member of Traditional African Music & Dance and Honors Sankofa Company. She participated in Spring Classical Dance productions Dance All About It and What Moves Us. Oleto; The Albin Of Vencalle will be a fourth Sankofa production after Voices In Exile; Simone & Makeba, Yaa Asantewaa & The Battle For The Golden Stool, and MAYA, Phenomenal Woman. Kayla is captain of varsity cheerleading, a member of the Fine Arts Diploma Endorsement program (F.A.D.E.), and National Honor Society of Dance Arts (NHSDA). Upon graduation, Kayla plans to pursue a nursing degree, driven by her passion for helping others.
MADISON HEBRON ‘25 - Lady In Waiting & Officer
Madison has been steeped in dance since the age of four. She has had training in ballet, jazz, modern, and African Dance techniques. She enrolled in the Classical Dance program in her freshman year and joined Traditional African Music and Dance a year after. She has participated in Fine Arts Christmas Festivals, Spring Classical Dance productions, and Sankofa productions. This spring, she will be on stage with Sankofa in its production of Oleto; The Albin Of Vencalle, a third successive production after Yaa Asantewaa & The Battle For The Golden Stool and MAYA, Phenomenal Woman. She has embraced this newfound love of African Dance form; with the freedom of self expression that is embedded in the artform. Madison has been very active in so many organizations: My Hair My Crown Club, International Food Club, ASL Club, Fashion Club, SiStem Club, and Black Cultural Alliance. Her academic work is no different as shown by her commitment to the National Honor Society (NHS), Science National Honor Society (SNHS), and Honors and AP classes. She does look to the future and sees a path in higher education, indicative of ambition and a determination to pursue the highest values. She will attend Temple University and major in nursing with a minor in psychology, marrying her love for caregiving with insight into the human mind. Madison's commitment is unshakeable, both at school and personally, which brings out her desire to pursue with determination each of her goals.
KENNEDY BOWEN ‘26 - Lady In Waiting & Officer
Kennedy has been dancing since she was five. She has been involved with the Classical Dance program at Bishop McNamara since freshman year. This is her second year being in the Sankofa Production as a member of the Sankofa Ensemble. Since being at Bishop McNamara, Kennedy has been a Student Ambassador, a member of the Sophomore class cabinet, F.A.D.E., National Honor Society for Dance Arts, Mu Alpha Theta Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, and National Honor Society.
LONDON FORREST ‘26 - Lady In Waiting & Officer
London has been dancing since she was five. She enrolled in the Traditional African Music and Dance program her freshman year and auditioned to be a member of Sankofa Company the following year. She performed in Sankofa's Yaa Asantewaa & The Battle for the Golden Stool and MAYA, Phenomenal Woman. She has been a member of the Bishop McNamara cheerleading team and F.A.D.E. (Fine Arts Diploma Endorsement program). Her philosophy on life is, “Live life until you can’t anymore.”
JAZLYNN WILLIAMS ‘27 - Lady In Waiting & Officer
Jazlynn has been dancing since she was little. She joined the Traditional African Music and Dance program and Sankofa Company in her Sophomore year. She performed in the 2024 Fine Arts Christmas Festival. She has been involved in the dance team and girl’s basketball. She is a member of F.A.D.E. (Fine Arts Diploma Endorsement program). After graduation, Jazlynn will possibly attend North Carolina A&T, where she will pursue a career in the medical field. Her philosophy on life is, “If you love it, go after it.”
SYANN MACKEY ‘27 - Lady In Waiting & Officer
Syann has been dancing since the ripe age of two. She enrolled in the Classical Dance program her freshman year and is currently in Dance IV. She enrolled in the Traditional African Music and Dance program and Sankofa Company Honors Plus programs. She has performed in the Classical Dance Productions of Spirit of Dance and HERStory. She was also a participant in the 2024 Fine Arts Christmas Festival. She has competed in multiple competitions, recitals, and Nutcracker productions, playing featured roles as Clara and the Sugar Plum Fairy. She is a member of the varsity dance team. Outside of the school community, she plans to keep training and build up her network through dance. After high school she plans to attend an Arts college like PACE, Juilliard, AMDA, or Ailey Fordham. Syann is excited for her featured roles in Oleto; The Albin Of Vencalle. Her philosophy on life is, “If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door.”
REDIET YONAEL ‘25 - Vocalist
Rediet has been a part of Bishop McNamara’s Theatre program since her freshman year and has led both her senior fall and spring productions as Annie and Wadsworth in Clue. She is First Trumpet in Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, and Pep Band, part of the Fine Arts Diploma Endorsement program (F.A.D.E.), Student Council Executive Secretary, the President of the International Thespian Honor Society, Tri-M Music Honor Society Vice President, National English Honor Society Secretary, and a member of National Honor Society, Rho Kappa Honor Society, and Mu Alpha Theta Math Honor Society. She’s extremely excited to be a part of this year’s Sankofa production!
KENNETH JOHNSON ‘26 - Vocalist
Kenneth (Ken) is a junior in the Class of 2026 making his debut with Sankofa. He is a member of the BMHS Theatre program and has performed in the 2025 Spring Play, Clue (Mr. Green), 2024 Musical, Annie (Mr. Bundles, Drake, Apple Seller, Harold Ickes), and the 2023 Musical, Guys and Dolls (Newspaper Pete). As an active SAG-AFTRA member, his film and television credits include Lady in the Lake 2024, Season 1 (Young Bookie) on AppleTV; Life & Beth 2024, Season 2 (Charles) on Hulu; Life & Beth 2022, Season 1 (Charles) on Hulu; and MIKE 2022, Season 1 (Gary Flowers) on Hulu. Ken is also a member of The We Are All Educators (The WAAE) Club at BMHS. Ken has been a mentee with 100 Black Men of Prince George’s County since 2018 and is part of their Pathways To Success (P2S) program. He is also a dedicated member of Maple Springs Baptist Church’s Production Team, where he is responsible for recording morning worship service, dismantling the camera, and properly packing it in the camera case. In addition, he is a member of the Youth Ministry and participates in Lott Carey ministry of missions with other youth from across the country. Ken plans to attend college and pursue a career in acting. Check out his profile on IMDB.com: imdb.me/KennethJohnson.
SAMUEL GAINES JR. (Guest Choreographer - Fits Of Rage)
Samuel Gaines is a professional dancer, singer, actor, and choreographer. He began his dance training at Divine Dance Institute and trained under scholarship at Dance Theatre of Harlem, Pneuma Dance Project, and in Edinburgh, Scotland. In 2020, he received his BFA in Dance and Business Management at Goucher College. Mr. Gaines has performed as a company member with Dance Iquail!, Sound Xpressed, and Contemporary West Dance Theatre where he performed works by Donald Byrd, Don Bellamy, Bernard Gaddis, Vernard Gilmore, Milton Myers and Alvin Ailey. Additionally, he has performed in the Musical Theatre productions of Mary Poppins, Wonderland, and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat with David Archuleta at the Tuacahn Amphitheater. Mr. Gaines also made history by performing in the original cast for the very first musical in Saudi Arabia, presented by the Royal family. An international instructor in ballet, modern, jazz, and contemporary dance, Mr. Gaines is especially acclaimed for his choreographic works which have been featured at the American College Dance Association (Washington, D.C.).
AVA GARLAND ‘23 (Guest Choreographer - Money In Thy Purse & Green-Eyed Monster) is a Bishop McNamara alum, Class of 2023, and is a student at the University of Michigan Stephen M. Ross School of Business and the School of Music, Theatre, and Dance. Ava has been dancing since the age of two, training in various styles of dance such as ballet, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, hip-hop, and more for seventeen years. At Bishop McNamara, she was a part of the Classical Dance program from freshman to senior year and the Traditional African Music and Dance program for two years. Ava was also an Honors Sankofa Company member, choreographer, and lead role of Yaa Asantewaa in the 2023 Sankofa production during her time at Bishop McNamara. Ava is currently pursuing her passions outside of school, being a part of Dance 2XS Michigan, a Coed Hip-Hop Team based in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Ava plans to continue pursuing dance through her studies, performing, and choreography in hopes of being a professional in the near future.
JORDAN GREGORY ‘23 (Guest Choreographer - Green-Eyed Monster) is a dedicated choreographer and dancer currently studying at Spelman College. With a passion for movement and storytelling, she has experience in Traditional African Dance, ballet, contemporary, hip-hop, and commercial dance styles. She previously choreographed for Bishop McNamara’s productions Voices in Exile and Yaa Asantewaa & The Battle for the Golden Stool, bringing dynamic and expressive movement to the stage. In addition to her choreographic work, she is deeply involved in her college dance community and continues to refine her craft through performance and creative exploration. She is honored to return to her alma mater and contribute to this production.
FAITH HARRISON ‘23 (Guest Choreographer - The Handkerchief) is a freshman at Hood College and a proud Bishop McNamara alum, where she graduated as the “Woman of the Year”' and recipient of the Fine Arts Department Award. She began dancing at the age of three and choreographing dances in her family room at age ten. While Faith will always love to dance, her true passion lies in choreography. Faith served as a student choreographer for two years, contributing to multiple McNamara productions within both the Honors Classical Dance program and the African Dance program. Faith not only choreographs pieces for upper levels at McNamara, but she also teaches ballet to ages two through eight at Dance Dimensions in Forestville, Maryland. She joined Dance Dimensions in 2014 and has since participated in several dance conventions, competitions, community performances, and more. Faith thoroughly loves giving back to the studio that poured unconditional love, investment, and confidence into her. She aspires to instill those same qualities in every dancer she teaches, regardless of age, environment, or skill level. Faith hopes to continue choreographing while she’s in college and possibly in the future. While dance has her heart, Faith also shares a deep passion for entrepreneurship. She is currently the CEO of F.O.B, aka Faith’s Organization Business, where she organizes fridges, pantries, rooms, and more. Faith hopes to continue pursuing entrepreneurship as she studies business administration. Her life mantra: “You cannot have a milliondollar dream with a minimum wage work ethic.”
CLASS OF 2025
JASON ADAMS
JAYLYN ADAMS
EMMANUEL AWOSEYE ♫
KHADIJATOU BEVERLY-DIALLO ◊
SYDNI BURSE
DANEYA CELESTIN ◊
JAKEI COBB ♫ § Ғ
AMANDA COLE Ғ ◊
ASIA CROSBY Ғ
KAYLA DANIEL Ғ ◊
JAVON DAVIS
JOSEPH DAVIS
JAMELAH EDWARDS Ғ
AMINA GARLAND ◊
RILEY GREEN
MAKAYLA HAMILTON Ғ
NOAH HAMILTON
MYA HAYES
MADISON HEBRON Ғ
JAHFARI JOSEPH
MOHAMED KABIA
AMARI MACK Ғ ◊
IMADE ORIYOMI
MARK PINES
JERRIN POYNER
SANAA RAINER
JORDAN RAY
ARUGULA ROBERTS
WESLEY ROBINSON
BRYSON SHELTON
McKENZIE TATEM Ғ ◊
TRENT TAYLOR
RIYAN WARE Ғ ◊
AMIRA WILSON Ғ
CASSIDE WOOTEN
FELICIA WORTHY
REDIET YONAEL ♫ § Ғ
Tri-M Music Honor Society = ♫ Fine Arts Diploma Endorsement = Ғ
International Thespian Society = §
National Honor Society for Dance Arts = ◊
National Art Honor Society =
We invite you to attend our Sankofa Senior Farewell and Awards Night (SSFAN) on April 27 @ 2pm at Bishop McNamara Fine Arts Theatre.
Estherlyne Austin
Dr. John Barnhardt
Joy Boddie
Tuere Brannum
Tiwanda Burse
Victoria Davis
Terra Deaton
Lisa Franklin
Tangela Gardner
Jennifer Hawkins
Mildred Haynes
Linda Nkongchu
Hadassah Ofori-Ansah
Dana Shieh
Tonya Taylor
Monique Turner
Chris Williams
ARE YOU ENJOYING THIS PERFORMANCE?
If so, consider making a donation to the Traditional African Music and Dance/Sankofa program to further support these fine young artists.
Simply scan this QR code and you will be brought to the BMHS Fine Arts contribution site.
https://www.givecampus.com/campaigns/29681/donations/new
The Bishop McNamara HS Fine Arts Department would like to express our appreciation for the support of our BMHS community.
