Cincinnati Black Theatre Company presents
FromTheDirector
Native son
Written BY Richard wright
FEAR
—
Book One The Life of Bigger Thomas
Scene 1 (I): Thomas Apartment
Scene 2 (II): Ernie’s Place
Scene 3 (III): The Dalton Home
Scene 4 (IV): Mary’s Bedroom FLIGHT — Book Two: The Discovery in the Furnace
Scene 5 (V): The Dalton Home
Scene 6 (VI): Clara’s House
INTERMISSION
Scene 7 (VII): The Dalton Home
Scene 8 (VIII): Abandoned Building
FATE
—Book Three : The Trial of Bigger Thomas
Scene 9 (IX): Courthouse
Scene 10 (X): Courthouse
Regina Poole, Director
A heart filled Thank You to Donald Sherman, the Executive Director of the Cincinnati Black Theatre Company for this tremendous opportunity to direct such a historic piece. Regina thanks Don for his support and coaching NOT just on this production, but over the last 20 years that she has been a member of CBTC.
Special Thank You to the Incredibly Talented cast of Native Son. The dedication and support to telling the story of Bigger Thomas is second to none. The long hours, group chats, Zoom Meetings, are the ingredients of Excellence. Thank you for trusting me!
\Seeing my vision…and most important – making this FUN! (The laughs….ohhhh the laughs). Thank you for yielding your gift to me. Some of you have travelled the country/world doing this and I am honored to have you on this project. Thank you for saying “YES”.
To the amazing Technical Team – you are absolutely THE BEST. You took the stress out of wondering if the production had all the cosmetic pieces to make the show REAL. Props, Lights, Set – the ability to translate vision into reality is second to none. I have a special place in my heart for this Tech Crew. Most of them trained me on ALL things CBTC; One in particular reminds me of why I love dance; Another why I love music.
A special note to my daughter, who stepped in behind the scenes to learn from Kevin Hammonds an original CBTC staple.
Not mentioned in any other place – Thank You Jackie Jackson. Thank you for bringing me to CBTC and this 20-something years of coaching. Thank You for your support and belief in me. Mostly Thank You for being my Big Brother. You and Donald will NEVER know how much I have learned from you.
Cassandra Cummings, Ms. Cassandra – Thank you for taking the time to capture video. It is always great to watch you work.
A special note of Thanks to Artsville Theater, it is always a pleasure to perform in this space. Artsville is the perfect place to touch people - close and cozy.
A SUPER HUGE THANK YOU to LaKishia DeLaney. We have been sister friends for over 15 years and in theater together just as long. To have someone working with me that has the same level of intensity and commitment to excellence can only yield and an EXCELLENT production. We did this and every single night we could still laugh and say “What Was That??”. Thank you for being a super incredible Stage Manager. I could not have done this without you. Laughter is truly medicine for the soul.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Allie Sipe Amburgey for taking such incredible photos.
A Thank You to my favorite Super Hero, Terrence Poole, and my children for putting up with me through this process. I am blessed beyond measure to be surrounded with so MUCH love and support.
Last but not least, A SUPER SPECIAL Thank You to everyone who came out to support this production. It is my hope that you laughed, cried, danced, and even became uncomfortable as we told this story. It is my hope that it provoked you to think.
Inside CBTC
Theatrical Arts Programming Series
The mission of the Cincinnati Black Theatre Company (CBTC) is to Keep Alive the Spirit of African–American Theatre by offering top-notch theatrical productions, performance an employment opportunities, children’s theatre, educational programs and community outreach in all aspects of theatre arts. CBTC is committed to increasing literacy, promoting diversity and multiculturalism, pursuing community outreach, collaborations, and providing access to the arts.
CBTC promotes and preserves the culture of African Americans through theatre and theatre arts education, and ensures greater artistic performances, participation and appreciation for the arts within the African American community, as well as within Greater Cincinnati’s general public. We are composed of instructors, performers, crew, staff, members, and volunteers who are degreed, highly trained, and experienced professionals in Black Theatre, performing arts, education, creative and technical theatre, literature, arts administration, and community service.
We appreciate the support of our board, many sponsors, supporters, members, volunteers, patrons and all friends of CBTC! We could not do it without your help!
We thank the staff and crew of The Artsville Theater Jim and Kathy Garrison
We would like to say a special Thank You, to the cast, crew, all our families and friends for all the time, hard work, and support you have contributed to this production!
From the Executive Director of CBTC, Don Sherman
I would like to thank my family for their love and continued support!
Cincinnati Black Theatre Company, 513-241-6060, cincyblacktheatre@gmail.com www.cincinnatiblacktheatre.org
Meet the Cast
Bigger Thomas Nick Bean
Hannah (Momma) Thomas Trudy-Mills Jackson
Vera Thomas Adriana Napier
Buddy Thomas James Price
Henry Dalton Jeffrey Bruewer
Ellen Dalton Angela Thompson
Mary Dalton Alishia Lee Terece Stanford
Ms. Emmett/Ms. Peggy LaKishia DeLaney
Jeff Britten Keith Kelly
Clara Mears Fiona Turner
Jack Henson Mark Ward, Sr
G.H. Rankin James Price III
Maxine Edwards, Esq. Angela Rudolph
Davina Buckley, DA Aurelia Gillium
Jed Norris/Jan Erlone Kameron Antoine Phil McDonald (understudy)
Meet the tech crew
Regina Poole Director
LaKishia DeLaney Stage Manager
Jacqueline Johnson Sound Engineer
Avery Hammonds Vocal Coach/ Set Engineer
Slyvia Lemon-Woods Asst. Stage Manager/Sound
Michael Gaynor Lighting Engineer
Kevin Hammonds Props Manager /Stage Crew
Morgan Poole Stage Crew Chief
Terrence Poole, Jr Stage Crew
Deborah Stewart Choreographer
Maddison Poole Stage Crew
Kameron Tipper Stage Crew/Understudy
CBTC’s You Gotta Move Arts In Health
Miss Black Teen Cincinnati Pageant
Imagine That! Summer Performing Arts Camp
Born in Washington D.C. and raised in Lincoln Park, Maryland, Nick was introduced to acting at the of 10. Nick received his Masters in Business Administration while he continued to explore his love of the stage. This love of the stage opened up opportunities to perform spoken work and improv with IMPROV CINCINNATI. Nick’s performances include Who Told You (Sam); Planted Roots (Darrell); At The Cross (Michael); Dear God Save Our Sons (Malcolm). Nick thanks Chantell, Will and Emily for their support. Nick is excited to appear in this encore performance with the Cincinnati Black Theatre Company, and he is grateful for all the opportunities God has given him.
Trudy Mills-Jackson is a Cincinnati Native and obtained her Bachelor’s of Art Degree in Psychology from the University of Cincinnati. Trudy’s acting credits include: Checkmates (CBTC 2014) Black Nativity (CBTC 2014 -2018); Motown (CBTC 2015); The WIZ (CBTC 2015); American Menu (CBTC 2016); Love Isn’t Enough (Enlighten Studios 2017 & 2019); Its Complicated (3Babiesproduction 2023); and By His Grace (Mt. Zion Drama Club 2024). Trudy was afforded the opportunity to be in her first movie Turning Tables (Thrones of Grace 2018) and was selected to be a writer for the web series “Around The Way Girls” (Seasons 1 & 2). Trudy is married to Richard L. Jackson and is the proud mom of 2 daughters.
Adriana is a Cincinnati Native. With a great passion for writing and hopes to one day not only be on the New York Times Best Sellers list, but she has hopes of becoming more comfortable on stage. In her acting debut with CBTC, Adriana is ready to step out of her comfort zone and put all things in God’s hands knowing that He leads and guides her in the right path. Adrianna is the proud mother of two and has eight siblings. Adriana would like to thank her Mother and Aunt for always being courageous and giving her the confidence to always stand up and stand out
Kameron, a 2019 graduate of Xavier University, has been acting for two years. Kameron is currently acting out of the Cincinnati Actors Studio and has been doing short films to get his foot in the door. His passion for entertainment has driven him to various avenues. Kameron’s goal is to get signed and become a well known local talent and work his way to Hollywood.
Nick Bean
Trudy Mills-Jackson
Adriana Napier
Kameron Antwine
Mark Ward, Sr. is the owner of Ward Fun, an online marketing company. His YouTube program of the same name is designed to feature other home business owners, while his podcast “The Atmosphere Changer” is used as a social platform for discussing everyday life. A member of the Power and Faith Theatrical Players, Mark has performed in the stage plays "Dear God, Save Our Sons,” “Dear God,” “Spring Revival,” “Planted Roots”, “I’m Not My Mama”, “At the Cross”, “I Loved You On Purpose”, “The Best Gift Ever” and “Who Told You?” A husband and father, Mark enjoys spending time with his family, reading, and working out. Mark is excited to be back for this encore performance
James is a Cincinnati native, graduate of Princeton High School and he obtained his degree in Engineering form the University of Cincinnati. James made his acting debut earlier this year in “Dear God, save our Sons”. James believes that finding your passion is something you do every moment of everyday. I Thank God and my Aunt Sylvia for allowing me the opportunity to find my passion and make better choices in my life. James would like to Thank his “stage Moms” Regina Poole and LaKishia DeLaney for accepting him as family into this production. James believes this definitely feels like a big opportunity stepping forward and he can’t wait how this unfolds!
Terece is a native of Cincinnati and graduate of Cincinnati State where she earned her Associates degree in Applied Business and Science. At a very young age , Terece developed a love for all genres of music. Terece began to sing in choirs, write lyrics and showcase her talents at local events. Terece would like to give a very warm and genuine thank you to Regina Poole and the Cincinnati Black Theatre Company for inviting her to be a part of the Native Son vision. Terece is the proud mother of two adult children and she is even more proud to be the grandmother of twins. Terece thanks her family and friends for all their support.
Alishia, a Cincinnati native, is celebrating her 10th year as a professional actress with an impressive and diverse portfolio spanning film, theater, and commercial work. Alishia, known for her ability to breathe new life into every role, has garnered recognition for her compelling performances and captivating presence on screen and stage. Alishia’s film credits include Lady In Red, For Colored Girls (2017), The Intersection (2022), Michelle Runion in Sunny, and Detective Destiney in Karma (2019). Alishia’s was featured as an extra in Shirley (2022) on Netflix. Alishia’s talents and dedication have earned her numerous accolades, she won Best Actress at the 48hr Film Festival for Karma (2019), and multiple Best Supporting Actress Awards for Sunny (2018) and Black Mamba (2018). Alishia is excited to make her debut with the Cincinnati Black Theatre Company.
JD Bruewer has appeared on stage at the Know Theatre and with The Company Presents. He has appeared in The Big Conn on Apple TV, Phoenix Reborn: A Love Story, and is currently filming Black Hole Sun which will be available on Tubi TV. He speaks French fluently and was a volunteer at the Paris 2024 Olympics. He lives in Mason with his wife and two daughters. JD is excited to return to CBTC for this encore performance.
Angela Thompson is excited to return to stage theatre. Angela’s passion has always been music; playing various instruments and singing since age three, which afforded her professional career opportunities. Yet, Angela fell in love with theatre when she performed in “The WIZ” at Walnut Hills High School and various productions in college. Years later, Angela was given the opportunity to produce and direct independent Black History Productions for SCPA during Black History Month from 2013-2015. Angela is a proud member of the Corinthian Baptist Church, where she’s an active member of both Music and Drama Ministries
Mark Ward,Sr.
James Price, III
Terece Stanford
Alishia Lee
Jeffrey Bruewer
Angela Thompson
Aurelia Gillium is a Cincinnati native. After returning home, she signed with Helen Wells Agency to continue expanding her acting career in TV, film and commercials. Her previous work includes the stage play “When Love Lies” by Tymicka Chambliss where she was awarded best supporting actress in Las Vegas during the stellar awards. She’s also performed a dual role for the stage play “Back To Basics” by Azana Fuqua. Not only has she graced the stage and film scene; Aurelia has also, most recently performed at the Dayton and Liberty Funny Bone and continues to hit the scene doing open mics around the city.
LaKishia loves being on stage. She has been performing for several years in theater and film. supporting her. LaKishias’ standout role as Stephanie in Grandma’s Hands earned her a nomination. She is also recognized for her portrayal of Gwen in the film Show Me Your Glory. Her diverse repertoire includes memorable characters such as Na in “American Menu”, Sis. Betty in “The Kitchen Committee”, Lady in Yellow in “For Colored Girls”, and Mercedes in “The Mask”, among many others. LaKishia is the proud mother to an amazing son, Cortez. She credits her family for their unwavering love and support throughout her journey.
Dr. Keith Kelly is the husband of Peggy, the father of five and the grandfather of eight. He began his recent acting career after a 40 year career in education. His performance in the short, student produced Xavier University film, The Two Step Program, helped the film earn the Audience Choice Award at a local college film festival. Dr. Keith has also been cast in the feature film Alabask, that will begin shooting in November of this year. He continues to learn and perfect his craft while receiving training at Cincinnati Actors Studio under the tutelage of Steven Francia. Dr. Keith is excited to return to the stage with CBTC for this encore performance.
Phil is a native of Cincinnati and a graduate of Walnut Hills high school and the University of Cincinnati. Phil is no stranger to the performing arts starting at the young age of 8. Phil has been involved in numerous projects - an African Tribal Tribute, old/new school talent showcase and for six years he played the alto saxophone in a jazz band. Phil is also a recognized choreographer, photographer and a writer. He enjoys the technical parts of theater production. Phil is excited to be back for this encore performance and looks forward to many more opportunities.
Fiona Capri grew up with a passion for entertaining, mimicking one of her favorite artist Lauryn Hill on Sister Act 2. She made her debut on stage alongside original Silk member Tyga Graham in the 2017 gospel stageplay ‘Is God Trying to Tell You Something’. Since then, she has went on to perform in many other plays including Dreamgirls, Deepest Shades of Blue, For Colored Girls, and more. She can also be seen singing with Ric Sexton and the Red Light Special Band. Outside of entertaining, Fiona works as a NA Analytics & Insights Director at Procter & Gamble and is a loving mother of four children(#FeeFi4um). She is excited to be part of this amazing CBTC production of Native Son and hopes that the audience thoroughly enjoys this rollercoaster ride of emotions, history, laughter, and love.
Angela Rudolph is a native of Cincinnati, Ohio. She has worked with CBTC in “The Color Purple” featured at the Aronoff, “Dream Girls”, “Black Nativity”, the Loveland Theatre Company in the stage play Memphis and The American Immersion Theatre Murder Mystery Company. Angela is the mother of three adult children and the proud grandmother of one. She has written a children’s book called William Wiggle Worm that captures a day in the life of a child with ADHD and how to navigate their world. Angela is also the Executive Director of Sisters Acts of Kindness a 501c3. Angela has a passion and a calling to serve her community and a deeper love for the arts. Angela currently works for the City of Cincinnati Fire Department supporting the CFO and Fire Chief. She is so excited to be part of this production!
LaKishia DeLaney
Dr. Keith Kelly
Aurelia Gillium
Phil McDonald
Fiona Turner
Angela Rudolph