Black Odyssey Digital Playbill

JAN. 24 FEB. 16, 2025

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HATTILOO BOARD OF DIRECTORS & STAFF BOARD EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

STAFF

Faith Morris, CEO, cultureLift Inc. Freedom

Ekundayo Bandele, Founder & CEO

Award Managing Director/Producer; Hattiloo

Patricia Smith, Production Manager

Chair

Jarrod Walker, Theatre Manager

Cynthia Collins, Managing Director of

Rosanna Smith, Office Manager

Litigation, FedEx; Hattiloo Secretary

Najwa Watson, Engagement Coordinator

Vernon Stafford, Senior Executive Vice

P.A. Bomani, House Manager

President, & Chief Audit Executive, First

Hatshepsut Bandele, Customer Service

Horizons; Hattiloo Treasurer

Coordinator

MEMBERS

Carolyn Bishop, Director, On-Campus Living, LeMoyne-Owen College

ABOUT HATTILOO Hattiloo

is

a

501(c)3

mission

non-profit

organization. Its mission is "to develop a Black

Michael Campanaro, Vice President,

theatre that is accessible to, relevant to, and

Information Technology, AutoZone

reflective of a multicultural community." It

Tabrina Davis, Vice President - Marketing,

produces shows that depict Black life and that

Communications and Web Strategy,

transcend their entertainment value by giving

Methodist Le Bonheur Edith Kelly Green, Principal, KGR Group Jocelyn Henderson, An Attorney Cardell Orrin, Executive Director,

audiences an authentic, cultural experience. Its program The Self-Identity Theatre Camp helps Black youth acquire tools to care for their emotional

selves

in

inequitable

and

discriminatory situations.

Stand for Children Amy Simpson, Chief Communications Leader, International Paper Linda Smith, Community Volunteer Mack Weaver, CFO, Memphis in May

As the largest Black theatre in the Mid-South and one of a few free-standing Black theatres in the country, Hattiloo is a hub for national Black theatre training and convening, and our youth programs share this focus.

A MESSAGE FROM EKUNDAYO I’ve always been drawn to stories that delve into the depths of the human experience. Whether it’s the epic quests of Willow and the Lord of the Rings, the magical realism of Gabriel García Márquez’s One Hundred Years of Solitude, the haunting beauty of Toni Morrison’s Beloved, or the labyrinthine narratives of William Faulkner, I find myself captivated by tales of love, loss, and the enduring power of the human spirit. Even in the world of music, artists like Charles Mingus and Sting have moved me with their exploration of life's complexities. More recently, the intricate tapestry of characters and plotlines in "Game of Thrones" has further fueled my fascination with grand narratives.

It was during a pilgrimage to the sacred ground of New York City theaters that I encountered Marcus Gardley’s reimagining of the Odyssey. My friend and former professor, Keith Arthur Bolden, and I found ourselves in the intimate space of a tennis court-configured audience, a fitting stage for this epic tale. The moment the lights dimmed, I was transported to a world both familiar and fantastical. Gardley’s retelling, centered on the Black experience, resonated deeply within me. It was as if the playwright had peered into my soul and captured the essence of my own journey. At that moment, I knew I had to produce this powerful story at Hattiloo.

“Black Odyssey” is more than just a retelling of an ancient epic; it’s a deeply personal journey for Black people. It mirrors our own struggles, triumphs, and enduring hope. It’s a story of ancestors, of those who came before us, and how their sacrifices have shaped our destinies. I feel a profound connection to this play as if it’s a reflection of my own journey and Hattiloo’s mission to amplify Black voices and stories.

To produce this extraordinary work to life, I had to navigate various challenges, including securing special permission from Marcus Gardley to produce an unpublished script. But the reward is immeasurable. By sharing “Black Odyssey” with our audience, we honor our heritage, inspire future generations, and continue the legacy of Black storytelling.

This aligns perfectly with Hattiloo’s mission to create a Black theater that is accessible, relevant, and reflective of a multicultural community.

EKUNDAYO BANDELE Founder/CEO

Written by Marcus Gardley Co-directed by Ekundayo Bandele & Maya Robinson

EKUNDAYO BANDELE Scenic Designer

REGINALD BENNETT Master Carpenter

EMMA CRYSTAL Choreographer

ASHLEY K. DAVIS Musical Director

MANDY HEATH Lighting Designer

MELANIE MULDER Scenic Painter

TAYLOR NICOLE Assistant Stage Manager

KAYI NORTSRON Costume Designer

Sound Designer

CYD TRICE

BRONZJUAN WORTHY Stage Manager

HOUSE NOTES If you exit the theatre during the show, you may not be able to return to your seat.

Talkback performances – Sunday, January 26th and February 9th, 2025 (5 minutes after curtain).

Cameras and recording equipment are strictly forbidden in the theatre. Patrons with cell phones or any electronic device that makes noise are requested to either turn off the device or check it with the house manager prior to curtain.

CAST

DELVYN BROWN Deus

DEE LISA COTHRAN Nella Pell

SHERICA DONELSON Chorus

ZAN EDWARDS Chorus

GALA HAYES Circe & Chorus

ROMAN KYLE Paw Sidin

ARIEL LEIRA

JACKIE MUSKIN

JORDAN-DANYEL PAYNE

Alsendra Sabine and Calypso

Aunt Tina

Chorus

BRYCE SEAY

KHLOE SYLVESTER

LUCIEN WHITE

Chorus

Benevolence Nausicca Sabine

Malachi

CHASITY WILLIAMS Ma Doosah & Chorus

BERTRAM WILLIAMS JR. Ulysses Lincoln

JAMAR WRIGHT Artez Sabine

SYNOPSIS Obie-winning playwright Marcus Gardley blends classic mythology, African-American history, and modern theatricality to create the poetic Black Odyssey. This vibrant reimagining of the Odysseus saga is set in modern-day Harlem, telling the epic tale of Ulysses Lincoln, a soldier facing the most daunting of voyages to reunite with his family. While fate may seem in control of Ulysses’ destiny, his ancestors and their buried history will help guide his journey home.

MEET THE PLAYWRIGHT Marcus Gardley is a proud Bay Area-born playwright-poet whom The New Yorker calls “the heir to Garcia Lorca, Pirandello and Tennessee Williams.” He received a 2019 Obie Award for his play The House That Will Not Stand and is the recipient of the 2019 Doris Duke Artist Award. His play X or The Nation V. Betty Shabazz was a New York Times Critic’s Pick and was remounted Off-Broadway in the spring of 2018. He is a 2019 Library Laureate of San Francisco, the recipient of the 2018 Guiding Light Award presented by California Shakespeare Theater, and won the 2017 Special Citation Theater Award for his play black odyssey, which swept the Theatre Bay Area Awards, garnering six other prizes including Best Production. He is the 2013 USA James Baldwin Fellow and the 2011 PEN Laura Pels Award winner for MidCareer Playwright. He wrote the screenplay for The Color Purple musical feature film and What's Going On, a biopic about Marvin Gaye produced

by Dr. Dre. Currently, Gardley is developing several tv projects for Amazon studios and writing a musical about Jean-Michel Basquiat with music composed by Jon Batiste.

CAST BIOS

DELVYN BROWN Deus

Delvyn Brown expresses gratitude to God for the enduring strength that allows him to fulfill his obligations and pursue his desires. He extends his thanks to his fiancée, Sharon Barber of SDB Marketing, for being the essence of his quintessence, his brand. He offers special thanks to "Ek", the Hattiloo family, and the cast and crew for the warm reception upon his return to the Hattiloo stage after a decade. He is also grateful to his friends and family for their unwavering support.

Dee Lisa Cothran is a psychologist whose impressive credentials include teacher, Fulbright-Hays Fellow, and published author. Lisa has a passion for acting and currently is seeking opportunities to develop her craft. She is excited to bring depth and authenticity to

DEE LISA COTHRAN Nella

diverse roles, with a keen interest in historically-rich narratives.

From a heart that is overflowing with gratitude, she thanks her family and friends for their support and the Hattiloo Theatre for the opportunity to live her dream.

Sherica Donelson is grateful to God for her debut at Hatillo. A mother of two handsome and strong young men. Sherica advocates for Mental and Public Health Awareness as well as Homelessness amongst single moms and their children. She sings with Jeffrey

SHERICA DONELSON Chorus

Williams & The Voices of Inspiration and Leads Praise and Worship at Historical First Baptist Church. Sherica loves connecting with the souls and spirits of people through the World of Arts. Sherica’s credits include Jesus The Third Day (True Believers Productions), Dangerous Entanglements II, The LOVES (Actors Renaissance Theater), and The Color Purple (Hatillo Theater). Sherica looks forward to bringing laughter, joy, entertainment, and inspiration to the 40 + ladies who are late bloomers in the World of Arts but a beacon of light to those who never gave up on their dreams despite the time or the place; we are still Stars.

ZAN EDWARDS Chorus

Zan Edwards is a native of Bruce, MS, and a graduate of the University of Mississippi where she earned a BA in Theatre Arts with a minor in Sociology. Credits include: Lorrell in Dreamgirls, Oklahoma, Dionne in Hair, Tina Turner in The Wedding Singer, Chiffon in Little Shop of Horrors, Dynamite in Hairspray, Kinky Boots, and Lady in Green in For Colored Girls. Formally, she was a member of Mississippi: The Dance Company for two years. Her

screen experience comes from her participation in Christmas at Graceland, Texas Heart, and Young Rock. She is more than excited to use this production of Black Odyssey as a springboard to furthering her performance career. Always thanking God, she would also like to thank her family and friends for their love and support.

GALA HAYES Ma Doosah

Gala Hayes is ecstatic to be a part of the Black Odyssey production. This is her first theatre role and she is looking forward to doing more. She would like to thank her amazing Husband, super cool kids, supportive family; and even the mildly annoying pets, for their encouragement in this new endeavor. You can find more of Gala’s adventures on IG: @global_gala Roman Kyle graduated from the University of Memphis with a B.F.A in Theatre & Dance, trained in contemporary and jazz dance.

Credits include performing in A Midsummer Night's Dream (Demetrius), other productions include Romeo & Juliet (Romeo),

ROMAN KYLE Paw Siden

The Flick (Avery), Sarafina: The Musical (Crocodile), The Little Prince (Aviator), To Kill A Mockingbird (Tom Robinson), and All The Way (Stokley Carmichael), The MouseTrap (Giles Ralston).

Ariel Leira would like to give all the glory, honor, and praise to her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for this opportunity to be back on the Hatiloo stage! As a child, Ariel always dreamt of being on the

theatre stage. So far God has blessed her to be in several productions including 24/7 Cafe,' Another Christmas Wish, Til ARIEL LEIRA Alsendra Sabine and Calypso Death, Carmen Jones, and now Black Odyssey! She's beyond grateful to be cast as Alsendra/Calypso in this captivating production! She would like to thank God, her family, Mr. Ekuodayo/Ms. Maya/Ms.Bronz and Hatiloo Theatre!

Jacki Muskin has performed in a number of Hattiloo productions,

JACKIE MUSKIN Aunt Tee

including Women in the Pit, Sassy Mamas, The House That Will Not Stand, Purlie Victorious, and Steel Magnolias. She has also served in the capacity of Stage Manager for several productions, including the Hattiloo’s production of Ain’t Misbehaving and Lady Day at Emmerson Bar and Grill, both performed in Milan, Italy.

She is grateful for her friends and family’s love and support.

JORDAN-DANYEL PAYNE Chorus

BRYCE SEAY Chorus

KHLOE SYLVESTER Benevolence

Jordan Danyel is an actor and Memphis native whose passion for the arts began in childhood and blossomed throughout her education at Jackson State University. Under the mentorship of acting coach and BMF star Jemal McNeil, she honed her craft and developed an extensive background in theatre, television, and film.

Her notable credits include Imagine Entertainment’s Get On Up, NBC’s Young Rock, Bye Bye Birdie, Ruined, In the Red & Brown Water, These Four Women, Shakin’ the Mess Outta Misery, and Black Nativity. Most recently, she earned an Ostrander nomination for her performance in Confederates at Hattiloo Theatre. Jordan is thrilled to be part of the cast of Black Odyssey, where her passion for storytelling and creating emotional impact shines through. She is dedicated to leaving audiences inspired and is excited to collaborate with her talented castmates to bring this powerful work to life. Off-stage, Jordan’s greatest joy is being a mother to her beautiful daughter, and she is deeply grateful to her family and friends for their unwavering support.

K.E Bryce Seay is a young aspiring Actor in the Memphis and Shelby County region. He is a Senior at Overton High School and is currently in the C.A.P.A (Creative and Performing Arts) program with a GPA of 4.357. He has excelled in dance as well as Vocal Music, performing in the All-West Tennessee Honors Choir, singing I Tenor receiving 24th chair. K. E. Bryce has landed leading roles in his High School productions such as ‘Scarecrow” in The Wiz, “Sir Andrew” in Twelfth Night, and “Joseph” in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat just to name a few. His high school acting career is very exciting. Bryce attends church at Greater New Liberty church under the leadership of Dr. Darrly Shack, Sr. where he participates faithfully in the youth department.

He often enjoys spending time with his enormous family and hanging with his friends outside of school.

Khloe Sylvester was born in Tuscaloosa Alabama but moved to Tennessee. She is a ballerina, aunt, a chorus member, and actress.

Khloe began acting in 2022. She has been cast for several roles such as Ebby, Fezziwig dancer, Caroler and Ignorance in Theatre Memphis’ Christmas Carol, an ensemble member in Hattiloo Theatre’s Psalm of My Heart, and Thor in Poplar Pike Playhouse’s The Nerd. She has danced at Ballet on Wheels, MJ's Academy of Dance, and Beth Cross Center of Dance. Khloe is grateful to God for His many blessings and opportunities.

LUCIEN WHITE Malachi

CHASITY WILLIAMS Ma Doosah & Chorus

Lucien White, a Memphis Native, has been acting since elementary being blessed with great opportunities. As an outgoing and extroverted person, he's always willing to speak his mind and spread his ideas. Although he has mainly performed in stage plays, such as "Kill Move Paradise" at Hattiloo Theater or 26 Pebbes at Overton High School, he's also been featured on Fox 13, played roles in short films, and has been chosen to deliver a TED talk.

Referred to as "young talent" he hopes to continue receiving great opportunities and support.

Chasity Williams has enjoyed her run here at Hattiloo, and is back for a FOURTH time! She was recently in Carmen Jones, starring as Myrt. She is also known for her role as Mother Abbess in the classic musical, The Sound of Music, produced by DFT. Celebrating her 22nd year in showbiz, she's also appeared in other productions such as Little Shop of Horrors, Harvey, No Exit, and many others.

She's been a film actress for 6 years, starring in Down Bad and Ease the Pain, Deposit, and Checklist (TubiTv and Amazon Prime).

Chasity will be starring as Charlayne in Aint Misbehavin in June 2025 with Theater Memphis. She wishes to thank her family and friends for being super supportive!

Bertram Williams Jr. is an actor and social entrepreneur born and raised in Memphis, TN. He spent more than a decade steeped in the storytelling tradition of the African diaspora while working at

Hattiloo Theatre, performing in plays like Fences, Two Trains Running, Stick Fly, Jitney, and Ruined. Thanks to his time at BERTRAM WILLIAMS JR. Hattiloo, Bertram would go on to meet Katori Hall, the Pulitzer Prize Ulysses award-winning playwright and creator/showrunner of the STARZ Original drama P-VALLEY, where Bertram is currently a series regular portraying the role of “Woddy.”

Williams is grateful for the opportunity to return to his artistic home for this performance of Black Odyssey by the genius Marcus Gardley. Bertram would like to thank this incredibly talented cast and crew for embarking on this journey. He would like to thank the co-directors Maya Robinson and Ekundayo Bandele for their creative vision and friendship. Most importantly, Williams would like to thank you, the supporters of Hattiloo Theater, for continuing to invest in a cultural institution that changes lives.

JAMAR WRIGHT Artez

Jamar Wright is a passionate educator and versatile performing artist based in Memphis, Tennessee. As a dedicated teacher in the Memphis Shelby County Schools system, Jamar inspires and empowers students with a commitment to fostering creativity, selfexpression, and critical thinking. With 11 years of experience in the classroom, He is known for making learning engaging and relevant, shaping the next generation of thinkers, leaders, and artists.

Beyond the classroom, Jamar is an accomplished actor, singer, dancer, and guitarist. His dynamic stage presence and diverse talents have led to standout performances in notable productions such as The History of Black Music at Southwest Tennessee Community College and the epic play Father Comes Home from the Wars (Parts 1, 2 & 3) at Hattiloo Theater. Whether commanding the stage with powerful vocals or showcasing emotional depth in dramatic roles, Jamar can be found in local venues around the city expressing his passion for the arts and education.

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CREW BIOS

EKUNDAYO BANDELE Co-Director & Scenic Designer

REGINALD BENNETT SR. Master Carpenter

EKUNDAYO BANDELE is a playwright and theater director whose work has significantly impacted the American theater landscape.

He has directed three plays by August Wilson and served as an assistant to Tony Award-winning director/actor Ruben Santiago Hudson. His plays, including "Judas Hands" (Karamu Playhouse), "If Scrooge Was a Brother" (ETA Creative Arts Foundation), "Take the Soul Train to Christmas" (Jubilee Theatre), and "I, Too Am America" (Ensemble Theatre), have been produced nationally. In 2006, he founded Hattiloo Theatre in Memphis, TN, where he serves as CEO. Between 2012 and 2016, Bandele successfully led a $10 million capital campaign to build and expand Hattiloo, resulting in a state-of-the-art facility that opened with no debt and a substantial endowment. His impact extends beyond Memphis, with international initiatives such as a theater management course at Omdurman Islamic University in Sudan and acclaimed productions in Milan, Italy, including his own "Mahalia: Queen of Gospel." He has studied Indigenous storytelling in Rwanda and Irish theater at the University of Limerick in Limerick, Ireland. He is a Phi Beta Kappa and summa cum laude graduate of Morehouse College, where he founded the Morehouse College Theatre Ensemble, and a DeVos Arts Management Fellow at the University of Maryland. In 2022, he established the accredited Hattiloo Black Theatre Studies program at LeMoyne-Owen College. He has served on numerous boards and committees, including a founding board member of the African American Performing Arts Museum, chairman of the Memphis Office of Youth Services, and a current advisory committee member at the University of Tennessee’s Ozmo Institute for Neuroaesthetics.

Reginald Bennett Sr. Reggie is thrilled to be a set builder at Hattiloo Theatre. From 2004 to the present he has built more sets than he can count. His most memorable sets are “King Hedley II”, “Stick Fly”, “Between Riverside and Crazy”, and most recently “Shakin the Mess outta Misery” to name a few. He has a degree in Building Engineering from Michigan State University where he attended for two years. He has worked construction for Motown Records in Detroit, MI. Managed over 60 employees for Fox Theatre also in Detroit. Born in Memphis, TN he has always worked hard in his community. In 1992 he opened his own construction company named “Bennett’s Construction”. He loves working at Hattiloo Theatre, the only Black-owned theatre in the state of TN, and one of the best in the country.

ASHLEY K. DAVIS Music Director

Ashley K. Davis is from Memphis, Tennessee. He holds Doctoral, Master, & Bachelors degrees in music & a dual Masters degrees in Theology. Currently, Ashley is an Assistant Professor of Music at LeMoyne-Owen College. He is the recipient of various awards & honors including: 50th Anniversary Jubilee Gospel Concert Musical Director for Queen Elizabeth, Composer for the Emmy-nominated PBS documentary, “The Least Among Us," Recipient of an Ostrander Award, & a Broadway World Award.

Jesse L Dunlap is a Theatrical Generalist he is an award-winning Award and Activist

JESSE L DUNLAP Stagehand

Micheal Cook native of Memphis, TN is thrilled to be apart of this

MICHAEL COOK Sound Board Operator

production. He is currently an 8th grader at Germantown Middle with plans on playing football for Lausanne High School. Other interest include, content creation and fashion design.

Mickhel Cook native of Memphis, TN has gone from running around 656 Marshall St. as a toddler, to the tech booth as light and sound engineer! As the son of company Member James Cook, he and his twin brother are no stranger to the arts. His attention to detail

MICKHEL COOK Lighting Board Operator

separates him from most of his peers and he hopes to further his career and become the youngest Hattiloo resident Stage Manager.

Mandy Heath would like to dedicate her work on this production to her beautiful sister Shenae who recently began her final journey.

May it be filled with ancestors, birds, beaches, and your favorite vegan foods.

EKUNDAYO BANDELE Scenic Designer

MELANIE MULDER Scenic Painter

Melanie Mulder is proud to be designing another set at Hattiloo Theatre. Previously, for Hattiloo, she has designed Once on This Island, Simply Simone, In the Heights, The Wiz, and AIDA. Originally from Memphis, TN, she has traveled around for many years working in theatre. Some of the theatres Melanie has worked for are The Roundabout Theatre, The Vineyard Theatre, The Signature Theatre, (NYC); Williamstown Theatre Festival in Main; Lake George Opera in New York; Seaside Music Theatre in Florida; Northern Stage in Vermont; The Nashville Shakespeare Festival and The Cumberland County Playhouse, both in Tennessee.

MAYA ROBINSON Co-Director

Maya Geri Robinson is a proud native Memphian and has been a member of the Memphis theatre community for over three decades. Maya graduated from Rollins College with Bachelor of Arts degrees in Theatre and Psychology and holds a Masters in Urban Education degree from Union University. As an actress and director for the stage, Maya has worked on numerous productions for Circuit Playhouse, Inc. and Hattiloo Theatre, one of which was Hattiloo's first-ever production, "Home". Most recently she directed Hattiloo's Season 16 production of "School Girls: The African Mean Girls Play". Maya has received multiple Ostrander Award nominations and awards for her work. In her daily profession, she serves as Managing School Director for The Soulsville Charter School in South Memphis.

Cydnie Trice has been working in theatre productions for over twenty-five years. Since she first began her career, she has taken on various roles from director, designer, and actor to prop master, videographer, and stage manager. During her Undergrad at MIT,

CYDNIE TRICE Sound Designer

Cydnie was a part of Uncle Vanya, La Casa de Bernalda Alba, and the Gilbert & Sullivan Player’s musical Trial By Jury. Since returning to the Mid-South, Cyd has worked on over three dozen shows with Theatre Memphis, The Harrell Theatre, Hattiloo Theatre, Germantown Community Theatre, New Moon Theatre, Stage 88 Productions, Playhouse on the Square, and Opera Memphis. She’s excited to be a part of Hattiloo’s premier of Black Odyssey.

Bronzjuan Worthy is a native Memphian, an educator, and a mother of three wonderful children. She has been blessed to be cast in several plays such as Maureen Peal in the Ostrander Awardwinning The Bluest Eye, M’Lynn Eatenton in Steel Magnolias,

BRONZJUAN WORTHY Stage Manager

Ostrander Award-winning In the Heights as Camila Rosario, and Lady in Red in For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide/When the Rainbow is Enuf. She was recently seen as Miss Lamama in Shakin’ the Mess Outta Misery, Mitch Mahoney in Putnam County Spelling Bee, and Carmen Jones ensemble. She has served as the stage manager for Blues in the Night and Lion King Jr. ‘Bronz’ is thankful for the love and support from her friends and family and praises God for this wonderful opportunity.

MEET THE HATTILOO STAFF EKUNDAYO BANDELE (Hattiloo Founder & CEO) is a playwright and theater director whose work has significantly impacted the American theater landscape. He has directed three plays by August Wilson and served as an assistant to Tony Award-winning director/actor Ruben Santiago Hudson. His plays, including "Judas Hands" (Karamu Playhouse), "If Scrooge Was a Brother" (ETA Creative Arts Foundation), "Take the Soul Train to Christmas" (Jubilee Theatre), and "I, Too Am America" (Ensemble Theatre), have been produced nationally. In 2006, he founded Hattiloo Theatre in Memphis, TN, where he serves as CEO. Between 2012 and 2016, Bandele successfully led a $10 million capital campaign to build and expand Hattiloo, resulting in a state-of-the-art facility that opened with no debt and a substantial endowment. His impact extends beyond Memphis, with international initiatives such as a theater management course at Omdurman Islamic University in Sudan and acclaimed productions in Milan, Italy, including his own "Mahalia: Queen of Gospel." He has studied Indigenous storytelling in Rwanda and Irish theater at the University of Limerick in Limerick, Ireland. He is a Phi Beta Kappa and summa cum laude graduate of Morehouse College, where he founded the Morehouse College Theatre Ensemble, and a DeVos Arts Management Fellow at the University of Maryland. In 2022, he established the accredited Hattiloo Black Theatre Studies program at LeMoyne-Owen College. He has served on numerous boards and committees, including a founding board member of the African American Performing Arts Museum, chairman of the Memphis Office of Youth Services, and a current advisory committee member at the University of Tennessee’s Ozmo Institute for Neuroaesthetics.

HATSHEPSUT BANDELE (Customer Service Coordinator), is passionate about celebrating and promoting Black art and culture. Working at Hattiloo brings her joy as she wholeheartedly believes in the power of the arts. In her role, she is committed to ensuring that each visitor feels genuinely welcomed and well-informed about the upcoming plays and events at Hattiloo. Handling ticket sales and subscriptions, she strives to deliver customer service that reflects my appreciation and pride in everything Hattiloo represents.

PATRICIA SMITH (Theatre Production Manager) has an extensive resume which includes her most recent performance as Judge Dunbar on NBC's Bluff City Law. She performed in Ain't Misbehavin and Asst. Directed Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill, both in Milan, Italy. She directed Hattiloo's Black Nativity with the Memphis Symphony Orchestra. She has many credits performing, directing, and costuming shows here at Hattiloo Theatre, however, most recently she directed and costumed "Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill" and "Marie and Rosetta". She was last seen performing in "Raisin" the musical as Lena Younger.

ROSANNA SMITH (Office Manager) a Tennessee native from southwest Memphis, is the eldest of nine children born to Rev. J. W. Smith, Sr., and Lillie B. Smith. She graduated from Mitchell High School in 1967 and attended the University of Tennessee at Martin.

Her career began in 1970 as a Reservationist at American Express, followed by a role as an Office Manager at Murphy Oil Company.

Rosanna earned an Associate Degree in Accounting and Data Processing from Memphis School of Commerce in 1973 and worked as an assistant bookkeeper at Goodwill Industries before joining Kroger in 1974. She served as an accounting clerk and office manager at Kroger until her retirement in 2002. After retirement, she worked at Katz Worldwide Logistics and the Shelby County Health Department until late 2013.

In her religious community, Rosanna was an Administrative Assistant and Church Clerk at Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church for 33 years and held various educational roles at Kimbrough Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Lamar, Mississippi. She has received numerous awards and certificates for her contributions to Christian education and community service.

JARROD WALKER (Theatre Manager) an imaginative trailblazer, is fueled by an inherent passion for creativity. Jarrod has immersed himself in event coordination, theater direction, and product launches for over two decades. Whether orchestrating weddings, plays, or other significant life events, his ability to infuse creativity into every project is the driving force behind his success.

As an accomplished event professional, administrative assistant, and theater director, he is dedicated to crafting unparalleled experiences for his clients and audiences. From providing essential administrative support to executing productions, he has played a pivotal role in turning clients’ dreams into tangible realities. For Jarrod Walker, the possibilities are boundless when creativity takes center stage, and his journey continues to be a testament to the transformative power of artistic innovation.

NAJWA WATSON (Engagement Coordinator) a Memphis native of Jamaican descent, brings over 14 years of administrative expertise to her role at Hattiloo Theatre. Her commitment spans nearly 15 years, reflecting a profound dedication to community and service. Najwa excels in organizing, project support, delivering exceptional customer service, and coordinating special events. Hattiloo is not just her workplace but her second home, where she contributes proudly as a professional, performer, and creative force.

With gratitude and honor, she will consistently embody Hattiloo's values through her endeavors.

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THANK YOU FOR YOUR GENEROUS SUPPORT

Please email najwa.watson@hattilootheatre.org if your donor info needs to be updated or revised

$50,000+

Community Foundation of Greater Memphis Hyde Family Foundation Memphis Tennessee Arts Commission TN Arts Commission

$25,000+

ArtsZone FedEx Arts Kite Foundation Shubert Foundation Thomas R. & Ellen M. Prewitt

Chairman's Circle

AIM High ArtsFirst ARTSmemphis Edith Kelly-Green Jeniam Foundation Miller Dental Health, Inc. NIKE, Inc. Overton Square, LLC Shelby County Government Turley Foundation, Inc.

Producer

Bowden Internal Medicine, PLLC Dr. Marcia Bowden Dr. Jeanne & Frank Jemison, Jr. Hohenberg Foundation William & Ann Schultz Thrive Grant

Director

Percy & Regina Baker Cynthia Daniels Deep Water Media, LLC. Gilbert Noble Commodore & Emma Primous Vernon H. Stafford, Jr. Clinton Woods

Designer

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Phi Lambda Omega Chapter Black Seed Fund Michael Campanaro

Thomas & Elgie L. Barfield Carolyn Bishop Sylvia Brown Tabrina Davis Vickie Devezin Tosha Downey Eclectic Eye Roselle Gause Gilliland Family Fund, Inc. Katrina Fayne Gene & Carol Katz Mary & Scott Morris PayPal Giving Fund Irene Jones Evelyn McKinney City of Memphis, Tennessee Sandra Reed Laretha Randolph-Sargent Charitable Fund Amy Simpson Rosie Richmond DDS Stephanie Sweet Monica & Andre’ Wharton Jan Young Sharon Younger

Celebrity

Verna Alexander Terri Smith Anderson Cherylo Browne Felicia Fowler Clarence/Harriett Halmon Norma Hayslett Deborah Hester Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Memphis Alumnae Chapter International Seminar Design, Inc. Jewish Foundation of Memphis May Lavender Tori Mason Donald & Lucy McLemore Rona Mogil Vanelder Nichols Robin Salant Bathsheba Sams River Arts Festival Rosanna Smith Sekeeta Thomas Carroll & Christine Todd Todd & Patricia Walker Jessica & Sandy Webb A.C. & Ruby Wharton Judith B. Williams

Star

Valerie Adair Raumesh Akbari Elsie Lewis Bailey Sandra Quinn Bailey Dr. Jodice & Rev. Russell Belisle Jolie Bernard Ivy McGee Blanks Ruby Bright Willie & Sandra Brooks Lou Etta Burkins Phyllis Carter Pamela Clary Robert & Sheila Cohen Charlie & Mauveleane Cook Courtney Davis John & Jacquelyn Dodd Regina Echols Jerome Edwards Meka Egwuekwe V. Lynn Evans Les & Janet Freeman Ann M. Frogge Mitchell Ghant Erica Griggs Carrie Harris Ava E. Hayes Elise A. Hayes Fred & Dorothy Johnson Merlean Jackson-Hill Network for Good Fund Richard McKinney Willie McNeal New Salem MB Church Terrena Moore Shirley Oliver Brenda J. Peters Melundee Scott Shawndolyn Sims Carla Smith Maxine Strawder Jacquelyn Taylor-Mays Jarrod Walker Sonia Walker Jerrie Y. Watkins Kerri Wilburn Barry & Kathy Yoakum Marlon Young

Small & Mighty

Charmagyne Akram Roosevelt & Jo Ann Allen Audrey Arrindell Juanita Austin Charlotte Bachus Tonia Bailey-Johnson Joeann Ballard Veronica & Brett Batterson Judge Rachel L. Bell Danielle BerryLeach Zita & Glenn Blankenship Sandy Bolton Jan Holmes Boyd Jetona Branch Patricia A Braswell Tyrol & Teresa Brazzell Tereasa Breckenridge Marilyn Brent Alexis Brooks Matthew Brown LaTrice Browning Dwayne Bryant Karolyn Bryant Brittney & Jamond Bullock Tanya Butler Joe Calhoun Charity Campbell Judy Card Everett Carpenter Kourtney Carpenter Andrea Carter Jason Noel & Dimika Cavalier Takeitha Chambers Tasha Chesser Shunta Chevis Karen Christian Casandra Clark Mildred Clark Nicole Clark Jeannie Clay Michael Cole Holly Coleman Vanessa Conner Mary J. Cooper Smori Cooper Ida Cotton Janis Cowley Joseph Craig Detris Crane Nettie Crawford Deborah Currie Audrey Davis Dr. Beverly S. Davis Constance Davis Linda Davis Priscilla Davis DeAngella Dennis Everett Dishmon

Nikki Dixon Phyllis Dixon Adrienne Dobbins Allison Dulaney Dr. Nikki Dyer Anjel Echols Judy Echols Angela Eckford Barbara Edmond Alteena Edwards Lillian & Bernice Family Foundation Fund Wayne Ferguson Geana Ferrell Valerie Fitzgerald Alaunda Floyd Eric & Chandra Ford Yvon Foster Janice Frazier-Scott Dr. Charlotte Freeman Lisa Frieson Crystal Frye Tameka Gant Barbara George Tymikia & Nicholas Glenn Allie Gray Lethelea Grayer Thedrick Griffin Charles Grove Lynnette Hall-Lewis Bridgit Harper Alvin Harris Carrie Harris Shantel Harris Donna Hayes Carolyn Head Will Hopkins Dr. Cynthia Bond-Hopson Anthony Carl Horne Veda Howse Lisa Igoni Janice Ivory Mike Jackson Dr. Dorsha N. James Cynthia D. Johnson Deb Johnson Eric & Cynthia Johnson Fred & Dorothy Johnson Jackie Johnson Joyce Johnson Tradinah Johnson Pamela Johnson Priscilla Johnson Melissa Joiner Marilyn Powell-Jones Rhoda Jones Tarsha Jones DeAndra Kelly Vanecia Belser Kimbrow, Esq. Jana Kinkle

Claire Kolheim Mary Kyles Kathy Ladner Louise Levin Michael Love Therese Mangold Michi-Marcole Martin Claudette Mason Lavelle Mays Althea McDuffie Blanchie McGaughy Jennifer McGrath Jimi Monix-Mitchell & Derrick Mitchell Lea Moore Jewel Morrow Sandra L. Motley Derrick Muhhamad Gail Murray Jacqueline Muskin Velma Nelson Wynetta Noland Candace Obadina Wyndie Oliver Jacqueline Oselen E. Gari & Davondra Owens Sam Patillo Rubbie Patrick-Herring Lou Paris Anniace Parker Denise Parker Teresa Peterson Grenda Poole Jackie Pride Karen Cook-Pryor Selestine Pugh Stephanie Pugh Crystal Quarles Aisha Raison Karen Reed Priscilla Reed Robert Reeves Marvin Robinson Kizzy Rogers Tamara Rogers Kimberly Ross Terry Ross Andrea Sain The Sawyer Family Sharon Shaw Shelly Shorter Marlena Shorter-Jones Bayley Simmons Zoe Simpson Lance Logan Sims Lynda Skillom Loren Smith Margie Smith Sandra Smith Sheronda Smith

Stephanie Smith Javelle Spann Angela L. Staples Almella Starks-Umoja Kandace Stewart Ladean J. Stewart Geraldine Sykes Candace Tate Cynthia Taper Elaine Taylor Telesa Taylor Juan Fuentes & Robert Thompson Maria Todd Latrice Robinson Toombs Rorie Trammel Carolyn Turman Joyce Turner Mamie Turner Brenda Tutwiler Katrina VanBuren Evette Vinnett Lexsee J. Waterford, Ph. D Joy Watson Pam Watson Angela (L.A.) Webb Dorothy Westbrook Augustene Weston Calandra White Donna & Charles White Donna Olds White Raymond White Sheorldine White Sondra Brooks-Whitfield Marilyn Whitney Charles Williams Cynthia Williams Dawn Williams Linda K. Williams Lois Williams Sharon Renee Williams Janiece Williamson Gueilar Wilson Vontyna Winfrey Joy Yancy Mae Yancy Lisa Young Tonya Young

Ensemble

Charles Belenky Sallie A. Boyd Rita J. Cowans Michael Detroit Norman Dodson Paris Ducker Kimberly Ferguson Cheryl Forbes Patricia Haley Patty Hanna Patricia Hewitt Stefanie Johnston Beulah Kasselberg Myra & Kim Newsom Brandi Nicole Erlie Pruitt Carol A. Risher Wayne Risher St. James AME Church Harold Williams Amy Wilson Dana Stith-Gray

ON STAGE NEXT