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HATTILOO BOARD
OF DIRECTORS & STAFF
BOARDEXECUTIVECOMMITTEE
FaithMorris,CEO,CultureLiftInc.
FreedomAwardManagingDirector/ Producer;HattilooChair
CynthiaCollins,ManagingDirectorof Litigation,FedEx;HattilooSecretary
VernonStafford,HattilooTreasurer
STAFF Ekundayo Bandele, Founder & CEO
Patricia Smith, Production Manager
Jarrod Walker, Theatre Manager
Rosanna Smith, Office Manager
Najwa Watson, Engagement Coordinator
Nate Herrington, Marketing Coordinator
Hatshepsut Bandele, Customer Service
Coordinator
P.A. Bomani, House Manager
Zaria Crawford, Customer Service
Representative
Felicia Wheeler, Patron Engagement
ABOUTHATTILOO
MEMBERS
CarolynBishop
MichaelCampanaro,VicePresident, InformationTechnology,AutoZone
TabrinaDavis,VicePresidentMarketing,CommunicationsandWeb Strategy,MethodistLeBonheur
JocelynHenderson,AnAttorney
CardellOrrin,ExecutiveDirector, StandforChildren
AmySimpson,ChiefCommunications Leader,InternationalPaper
LindaSmith,CommunityVolunteer
Hattiloo is a 501(c)3 mission non-profit organization. Its mission is "to develop a Black theatre that is accessible to, relevant to, and reflective of a multicultural community." It produces shows that depict Black life and that transcend their entertainment value by giving 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 discriminatorysituations.
As the largest Black theatre in the Mid-South andoneofafewfree-standingBlacktheatresin the country, Hattiloo is a hub for national Black theatre training and convening, and our youth programssharethisfocus.
JUBILEE
Copyright(c)2019TazewellThompsonandDianneAdamsMcDowell.
JubileewasoriginallycommissionedbySouthCoastRepertory
JubileePremieredattheArenaStage,Washington,DC,May2019
MollySmith,ArtisticDirector,andEdgarDobie,ExecutiveDirector
ProducedbyarrangementwithTheBarbaraHogensonAgency,Inc.
Allrightsreserved
Directed by THOMAS “TEKAY” KING
CHASITY ALLISTON
Asst. Director
THEDRICK GRIFFIN
Musical Accompanist
PATRICIA SMITH
Costume Designer
CYD TRICE
Sound/Video Designer
HOUSE NOTES
RALPH CALHOUN
Audio Sound Technician
CLAUDETTE H LEHEW
MELODY DOUGLAS
Costume Designer
Music Director EMILY RACHELLE
LAUREN THOMAS
Lighting Designer
JARROD WALKER
Asst. Stage Manager
DIEGO TREJO
Master Carpenter
Scenic Designer KIM SUNSHINE WICKS
Stage Manager
Ifyouexitthetheatreduringtheshow,youmaynotbeabletoreturntoyourseat.
Camerasandrecordingequipmentarestrictlyforbiddeninthetheatre.Patrons withcellphonesoranyelectronicdevicethatmakesnoisearerequestedtoeither turnoffthedeviceorcheckitwiththehousemanagerpriortothecurtain.
A MESSAGE FROM EKUNDAYO
Musichasalwaysbeenpartofmystory.
Mymotherwasaclassicallytrainedoperasingerwho studiedmusicinthe1960s,whenpursuingthatpath requirednotjusttalentbutresilience.Ourapartment wasalwaysfilledwithsound.Sheplayedpianoatour church,andIsanginthechoir.MysolowasJusta CloserWalkwithThee,evenwhenitmeantpushinginto falsettowithmythroatburning IsangwitheverythingI had,learningearlyonthatmusicwasbothdiscipline anddevotion.
Thatfoundationfollowedmeintoadulthood.Ispenta yearatTennesseeStateUniversitybeforelifeledmein
anotherdirection.Itjustwasn’ttime.TSUsitsjustdowntheroadfromFiskUniversity, andthoughIvisitedfriendsoncampus,IneverhadthechancetoexperiencetheJubilee Singersinperson.Still,theirlegacylingered.Ikneweventhenthattheirvoicescarried somethingpowerful,somethingrootedinbothfaithandsurvival.
My first real encounter with Black a cappella choral music came through Alvin Ailey’s Revelations. When I Been ’Bukedbegan, it struck me with a kind of spiritual force. No instruments.Justlayeredvoices,liftingcenturiesofsorrowandhopeintotheair.That momenttaughtmethatBlackmusic,initspurestform,doesn’tjusttellastory.Itisthe story.
Yearslater,IfinallyenrolledatMorehouseCollege,adreamIhadcarriedsincethemid1990s.Now,asanalumnus,Ilookbackonthattimeasaperiodofdeepartisticand personalgrowth.Oneofthemostprofoundexperiencesduringmytimetherewashearing theMorehouseCollegeGleeClub.TheresonanceoftheirvoicesremindedmethatBlack musichasalwaysbeenavesselformemory,pride,andidentity.
SowhenmyfriendHanaSharif,ArtisticDirectorofArenaStage,introducedmetoJubilee, I was immediately drawn in. She connected me with Tazewell Thompson, the brilliant playwrightanddirectorbehindthiswork,andwhenwesecuredtherights,Iknewthis wastheproductiontoopenHattiloo’s19thseason.
Jubilee embodies what Hattiloo stands for It is bold It is rooted It is beautiful This musicalhonorsthelegacyoftheFiskJubileeSingers,whocarriedspiritualsacrossthe worldtopreservetheirschoolandtheirheritage.Throughtheirvoices,historysings.
Asyoutakeinthisperformance,Iinviteyoutodomorethanwatch.Letitmoveyou.Letit remindyouthatyourpresenceherehelpskeepthesestoriesalive.Hattiloo’smissionhas alwaysbeentotellBlackstorieswithclarity,pride,andexcellence.Andwitheveryticket purchased, every conversation sparked, and every heart stirred, you help ensure that missioncontinues.
Thankyouforbeingpartofthislegacy.
Enjoytheshow, EkundayoBandele Founder&CEO,HattilooTheatre
SYNOPSIS
The world-renowned Fisk Jubilee Singers shattered racial barriers in the U.S. and abroad, entertaining kings and queens. For centuries, the bold a cappella African American ensemble born on the campus of Fisk University has blended their rich voices together sharing a heritage of suffering, strength and endurance. With uplifting spirituals and hymns including “Wade in the Water,” “Ain’t That Good News,” and “Nobody Knows the Trouble I’ve Seen,” this a cappella performance with more than three dozen songs is sure to ignite audiences.
MEET THE PLAYWRIGHT
Tazewell Thompson (Author, Librettist)
Tazewell Thompson is an internationally acclaimed director, playwright, and librettist. Blue, written with composer Jeanine Tesori, won the 2020 Music CriticsAssociationofAmericaAwardforBestNewOperainNorthAmerica.The NewYorkTimesandWashingtonPostdeclareditBestClassicalMusicof2019; The Guardian: Best Classical Music 2023; and it received an Olivier Award NominationforBestOperaProduction2023.
Librettist and director for the commissioned world premiere of March to LiberationforthereopeningofDavidGeffenHallatLincolnCenter,homeofthe New York Philharmonic. For the New York Times, his commissioned poem, Ghostlight,coveredtheentireOpinionPage.HisproductionofPorgyandBess, broadcastLivefromLincolnCenter,receivedEmmyAwardnominationsforBest DirectorandBestProductionClassicalMusic.Hehasover150directingcredits, including many world and American premieres in major opera houses and theatersacrosstheU.S.,France,Spain,Italy,Africa,Japan,theNetherlands,and Canada.HisplayConstantStarhashad16nationalproductions,garneringnine BarrymoreAwards,fiveNAACPAwards,andthreeCarbonellAwards.
BluereceivedproductionsattheGlimmerglassFestival(premiere),Washington National Opera, the Pittsburg, Toledo, Michigan, and New Orleans Opera companies,ChicagoLyric,EnglishNationalOpera,andtheDutchNationalOpera.
Mr. Thompson recently adapted his a cappella musical Jubilee (Arena Stage Premiere,2019)foropera.JubileedebutedinOctoberof2024atSeattleOpera.
TazewellThompsonisamemberoftheDramatistsGuildandtheStageDirectors andChoreographersSociety.
MEET THE VOCAL ARRANGER/ COMPOSER
DianneAdamsMcDowell(VocalArranger/Composer)
DianneAdamsMcDowell(VocalArranger/Composer)isanativeofWestVirginia, servedasVocalArrangerforBroadway’sAGentleman’sGuidetoLove&Murder-therecipientofsevenDramaDeskAwards,fourTonyAwards(includingBest Musical),anda2015GrammyNomination.Thisspring,herarrangementswere heardinUniversal’spremiereofAlfredHitchcockPresents:TheMusical!,inBath, England.OthercreditsincludeBroadway’sTony-nominatedStarmites,aswellas Disney Productions. As a composer, she has written for Radio City Music Hall and,withlongtimehusband/collaborator,JamesMcDowell,co-wrotethemusic &lyricsforTheWindintheWillowsattheNewVictoryTheatre, TimesSquare; BookendsattheNewJerseyRepertoryCompany,andtheiroriginalGospelMass ofSt.Thomas’,performedatTheChurchofSaintPaul&theRedeemerinHyde Park, Chicago. Dianne originally created the score for Tazewell Thompson’s highly acclaimed JUBILEE for Arena Stage, Washington, DC, and it was later presentedasanoperaatSeattleOpera.ForanotherThompsoncollaboration, Constant Star, she is the recipient of the Philadelphia Barrymore Award, the BeverlyHills/HollywoodNAACPAward,andaHelenHayesAwardnomination. Hervocalarrangementshavebeenperformedthroughoutthestates,including Lincoln Center’s Avery Fisher Hall, Hartford Stage, Boston Commonwealth Shakespeare, The Old Globe (in San Diego), and abroad in Tokyo, Shanghai, Seoul,Melbourne,andthroughoutEurope.DiannelovesrurallifeinCentralNew Yorkwithherhusband,Jim,andhermostrewardingaccomplishmentstodate aretheirtwosons,TaylorandMason.
CAST BIOS
ASHUNDRA BERNARD
Georgia Gordon
ASHUNDRA BERNARD is thrilled to make her Hattiloo Theatre debut as Georgia in Jubilee! A Memphis native with deep roots in music and performance, she recently portrayed Armelia in Ain’t Misbehavin’ (Theatre Memphis), Crystal in Little Shop of Horrors (The Harrell Theatre), and appeared in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Theatre Memphis). She is also a proud Young Actors Guild alumna and board member Beyond the stage, Ashundra serves her community as a Registered Nurse and founder of Test Anywhere Medical Lab. To her village thank you for lifting, loving, and lighting the way
TANISHA BROWN is a native of Memphis, Tennessee, and holds a Bachelor's Degree in Vocal Music Performance. She studied opera abroad for three years in Pisa, Italy, and Paris, France, developing a rich foundation in classical and contemporary vocal performance. Tanisha has been featured in numerous prestigious productions and ensembles, including: Giuseppe Verdi’s Aida – Opera Memphis Chorus, Scott Joplin’s Treemonisha – Opera Chorus, George Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess – Opera Chorus & Hattiloo Theatre (Strawberry Woman), Jacques Offenbach’s Orpheus and Eurydice –Chorus (Section Leader), Disney’s The Lion King – Promotional Chorus Member, and Memphis Symphony Orchestra – Symphony Chorus. She has also studied under renowned artists, participating in master classes led by Grace Bumbry and Vera Little. Additionally, Tanisha received vocal instruction from Clyde Battles, further refining her technique and artistry.
JADA DEAN is delighted to be making her entrance into Hattiloo Theatre in this production of Jubilee! She has been blessed to explore her creative talents in over 20 productions through theater, film, and radio combined. In theater, her most recent credits was the role of Camae in The MountainTop at Corinth Theatre Arts and in film, Nowhere to be Found and Bad for You with MidSouth Films When Jada is not performing, she enjoys traveling, supporting the Memphis Grizzlies and spending quality time with her loved ones.
TANISHA BROWN
Maggie Porter Cole
JADA DEAN
Georgia Understudy
CHARLES DOVE
Edmund Watkins
ARLES DOVE is a dynamic baritone from Detroit, MI, acclaimed powerful performances in opera and musical theater. He holds a ic degree from Alabama A&M University and made his operatic ut as Zuniga in Carmen. He recently starred as Husky Miller in men Jones at Hattiloo Theatre and performed as Silvano in La sto with Opera Memphis Charles has sung internationally and a member of the 105 Voices of History National Honors Choir ghlight of his career includes a duet with gospel artist Kim ell, showcasing his versatility and richly resonant vocal artistry.
HANNAAN DOVE
America Robinson TH FIN on
HANNAAN DOVE, a soprano from Memphis, TN, holds a Bachelor of Music from Alabama A&M University. A regular soloist, her operatic roles include Frasquita in Carmen and The Aunt in Madama Butterfly. She’s also appeared in Marcus; or The Secret of Sweet at Hattiloo Theatre and The House That Will Not Stand. Hannaan has performed with the 105 Voices of History at the Kennedy Center and at Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall.
THEDRICK GRIFFIN is happy to reunite with Hattiloo Theatre after 2 years. He is excited to be a part of Jubilee and is grateful to Hattiloo for everything that Hattiloo stands for He was cast in Five Guys Named Moe as Four-Eyed Moe, 2022 He enjoys singing, playing the piano, and bringing together great people to create a beautiful thing!
Hebrews 13:1
VEN RIS
Minnie Tate
VENISHA “V” HARRIS has been singing since she was 8 years old and is making her debut appearance tonight. V was classically trained in opera but loves a contemporary flair. She has been blessed to lead worship in 5 languages around the world and still currently continues to support the local community.
ED HOLT JR. has been a 20-year educator in the Memphis and Shelby County area. Other productions in which he was privileged to participate include Porgy and Bess, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, and Carmen Jones. He is grateful to the cast and crew, as well as Hattiloo Theatre for the opportunity to sing in Jubilee
JOYCE HOWARD, artistically known as Miss Joyce or Empress Joyce, is a Memphis-based award-winning R&B/World vocalist, actress, and activist. Raised across Germany, Georgia, and Jackson,TN,sheblendssoulfulballadswithempoweringanthems andhasperformedacrosstheUS,openingforartistslikeJillScott andMintCondition.
A survivor of a 2018 shooting, she founded the Love Heals Foundation to support brain injury survivors and promote community healing. She’s also an advocate for mental health, autismawareness,andveteransupport.
MissJoycehas12albums,includingherlatest,30Plus,featuring Rhythm Hop a genre she created. She's been honored with the HotButteredSoulLifetimeAchievementAwardandthe2025Civil Rights Songstress Honoree title. She is a mother, mentor, and creatorofR&BontheFly,usinghervoicetoinspirelove,unity,and joy.
AMILLEJAMHUNTERisajazzsingerandindependentrecording tist.HerbandhastakenthestageineveryvenueoftheHattiloo gacy,includingZorasLounge,theChocolateBar,BlackBox,and ePattiloo.Inaddition,shehasbeeninthecastoftheHattiloo ays: Spunk, The Wiz, and Mahalia. She also performed in the Opera Memphis production of Aida and the Orpheum’s presentationofTooHottoHandel:TheJazzGospelMessiah.JAM isaHattilooCompanyMember.
ADRIANKENNARDisaMemphis,Tnnativewithadeepadmiration fortheaterandavibrantstagepresence.Althoughhehasalways beendrawntotheperformingarts,itwasn’tuntilrecentlythathe embraced acting as a pursuit. His talent was recognized with a nominationforanOstranderAwardfor“BestSupportingActor”ina Division II play for his role in “A Stubborn Holiday,” written and directed by MaryAnn Washington at the Actor’s Renaissance TheateratTheaterWorks.HehasbeeninAMotownChristmas,The Meeting, Thoughts of a Colored Man, and participated in the 10 MinutePlayFestivalallatHattiloo.Hewasmostrecentlyseenin TheatreMemphisproductionAin’tMisbehavin’.
Ella Sheppard
ADR ARD
Be mes
J. RENIA
Jennie Jackson
J. RENIA (Jasmine Fentress) is a North Memphis native, singer, entrepreneur, and community educator committed to empowering youth through literacy and the arts. She is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Music at The LeMoyne-Owen College and brings over 15 years of experience in the music industry. As a skilled cosmetologist and loctician, Jasmine also serves as a worship leader at Redemption Church Memphis. Her work focuses on cultivating confidence, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning in young people.
KA RS
Mabel Lewis
KARA RODGERS From Memphis roots to center stage, Kara Rodgers is a powerhouse vocalist and storyteller whose voice carries truth, heart, and heritage. A proud graduate of LeMoyneOwen College (Class of 2011) with a degree in Vocal Performance, she has spent the last decade using her gift to uplift, inspire, and connect In 2018, Kara joined UNION: A New Musical, a tribute to MLK50 and the 1968 Memphis sanitation strike, which her grandfather helped lead. The show toured several cities and deepened her dedication to meaningful storytelling through music. She has also appeared in independent films, showing range and authenticity as a performer. Whether on stage, on camera, or mentoring young artists, she brings heart and purpose to her work.
JUSTIN ALLEN TATE
Fredrick Loudin
JUSTIN ALLEN TATE is a native of Memphis, TN He was back for his third production at Hattiloo. He has been a Professional Actor/Singer, & Dancer for 20+ years. National Broadway Tour Credits include: Smokey Joe’s Cafe, Flashdance & Cirque Dreams. His favorite regional credits include: Kinky Boots ( Lola ) , Ragtime ( Coalhouse ), Hello Dolly (Cornelius). Justin has been a Lead Featured Vocalist for Royal Caribbean International and Holland America Line for five years. A Background Vocalist for Blake Shelton, Gene Simmons of KISS and K. Michelle. T.V.
Appearances: Wedding at Graceland ( Hallmark ) ,The Deuce ( HBO) , ELLEN ( NBC ) & Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin’ Eve. He is a former member of the USO Show Troupe of NYC entertaining our military and their families around the world including tours in Hawaii & South Korea. He is a graduate of the American Musical & Dramatic Academy in New York City. He is a Heart Attack & Stroke Survivor who is blessed to still be a Full-time Entertainer.
NICHOLAS WEAVER
Greene Evans
CREW BIOS
CHASITY ALLISTON
Assistant Director
NICHOLAS WEAVER is excited to be back at Hattiloo Theatre. Some of his favorite past roles include The Bus in Caroline, or Change; Seymour Krelborn in Little Shop of Horrors; Anton in A Monster Calls; and Buster in The Color Purple A dedicated community leader and arts advocate, he serves on the boards of City Year Memphis and LoneTree Live, supporting fundraising and community.
CHASITY ALLISTON is a dynamic performer who most recently starred as Charlayne in Ain’t Misbehavin’ at Theatre Memphis. She is no stranger to the Hattiloo Theatre stage Jubilee marks her fifth production with the company, but her first big role as Assistant Director Chasity is best known for her standout roles as Myrt in Carmen Jones and Sandra in Confederates, where she captivated audiences with her powerful presence and emotional range. With a deep love for music-driven storytelling, Chasity continues to bring passion, precision, and soul to every performance.
THOMAS KING
Director
TEKAY is the Artistic Director, Theatre Manager, and Program Coordinator of Theatre at Southwest Tennessee Community College, where he is also an Associate Professor in Communication and Theatre. Just like Fisk University, his favorite color is purple. TeKay has worked regularly as an actor/director/musician at Playhouse, Opera Memphis, Theatre Memphis, and Emerald Theatre, but calls Hattiloo home. A 3-time Ostrander-nominated director, his recent credits include The Bow River Sighting (Southwest), 5 Guys Named Moe (Hattiloo), Immediate Family (TM), Chasing Rainbows (ETC), and Hot Beef (POTS). As an actor, he has performed in The Color Purple, Carmen Jones, Porgy and Bess, Jelly’s Last Jam, and The Wiz at Hattiloo, as well as productions with Playhouse, Opera Memphis, Theatre Memphis, and Emerald Theatre. TeKay holds an MFA in Theatre from the University of Memphis, a BA in Journalism and Mass Communication, and an MA in Communication Studies/Performance from UNC-Chapel Hill. Since 2008, he has toured internationally with the award-winning a cappella group DeltaCappella and recently appeared in the world premiere of The Story of Us alongside Broadway and Hollywood talent. Dedicated to Dennis and Linda Jo, angels guiding me through jubilation in this manic world.
CLAUDETTE H LEHEW Music Director
CLAUDETTE H. LEHEW is a retired music educator and choral directorknownforpreservingspirituals.AsanOrffMusicSpecialist at Memphis City Schools, she inspired students with innovative teachingmethods.
Claudette founded and directs LeChorale, an acapella ensemble celebratedfortheirspiritualperformances.Underherleadership, LeChoralecaptivatesaudienceswithitsmovingandharmonically vibrantrepertoire.
Her legacy in music education and choral arts reflects her dedication to nurturing talent, celebrating cultural history, and enriching lives through music. Claudette has also served as the VocalCoachatHattilooTheaterfor"Mahalia"and"CarmenJones."
EMMIE RACHELLE
Assistant Stage Manager
EMMIE RACHELLE has recently earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Tennessee at Martin, where she primarily focused on acting and stage managing. She has been involved in theatre since 2017, and she is continually perfecting her craft She believes theatre is a sacred form of art that brings every art form together, and more importantly, builds community. In her free time, Emmie enjoys crocheting, reading, doodling, and cooking.
LAUREN THOMAS
Lighting Designer
LAUREN THOMAS is a Lighting Designer and Stage Manager, and is so excited to be back to design another show here at Hattiloo! She has recently completed her B.S in Theatre with a minor in Spanish at MTSU. Their recent credits include The Wizard of Oz (Lighting Design, Cumberland County Playhouse), Carmen (ASM, Opera Memphis), The Rake’s Progress (Stage Manager, Opera Memphis), and Finding Nemo Jr. (Lighting Design, Cumberland County Playhouse) . Recent Hattiloo credits include: Thoughts Of A Colored Man (Lighting Design), Lion King Jr (Lighting Design), and Coconut Cake (Lighting Designer and Stage Manager). She would like to thank her friends, family, and fiancée, Toriya, for their support! They hope you enjoy the show! Lftdesigns.com
CYDNIE
TRICE Sound/Projection Designer
CYDNIETRICEhasbeenworkingintheatreproductionsforover thirty 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 undergraduate studies at MIT, Cydnie was a part of Uncle Vanya, La Casa de BernaldaAlba,andtheGilbert&SullivanPlayers’musicalTrialBy Jury. Since returning to the Mid-South, Cyd has worked on hundreds of shows and films with Theatre Memphis, The Harrell Theatre, Hattiloo Theatre, Cazateatro, Germantown Community Theatre,NewMoonTheatre,Stage88Productions,Playhouseon the Square, and Opera Memphis. She’s excited to be a part of Hattiloo’spremiereofJubilee.
JARROD WALKER
Scenic Designer
JARROD WALKER is delighted to be serving the community with Hattiloo Theatre. He was the director of the Drama Ministry at Elizabeth Baptist Church (Atlanta) for 6 years and directed several productions during his tenure One of his favorite directing credits was Class Act with Rising Sage Theatre He has a B A in Production Studies in Performing Arts from Clemson University, where he joined Alpha Psi Omega (theatre fraternity). His love of storytelling and creating experiences is also showcased in his event planning and graphic design work. He is grateful to Ekundayo and Hattiloo theatre for the opportunity to express his creativity through set design. Jubilee is his 5 scenic design at Hattiloo, and he dedicates this work to all of his songbirds watching him from above.
th
KIM “SUNSHINE” WICKS
Stage Manager
KIM “SUNSHINE” WICKS began her training at the Mississippi School of the Arts and earned her BLS in Directing & Playwriting from the University of Memphis. She has been blessed to perform multiple roles in theatre and film, including serving as director, stage manager, and master electrician in multiple productions. Kim has served as Director for Lion King Jr. and A Holiday Cabaret Jr., and Assistant Director for Gem of the Ocean, Velveteen Rabbit, and Sistas the Musical. She has also served as Stage Manager with Hattiloo Theatre since 2016, working shows such as The Boy Who Kissed the Sky; Take the Soul Train to Christmas; Mr. Rickey Calls a Meeting; Fetch Clay, Make Man; Selma: A Musical Tribute; Women in the Pit; and Five Guys Named Moe. Outside of the theatre, she serves as an educator and a minister. She is thankful to her backbone–her moms.
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.
NATE HERRINGTON (Marketing Coordinator) is a Memphis native from Westwood, Memphis, TN. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Christian Brothers University in 2024 and specializes in social media marketing. Outside of his marketing work, Nate is passionate about photography, videography, and all things music. He owns the photography brand Nate Herrington Photography and creates visuals for local artists in the Memphis scene under the brand name Limbø Visuals, collaborating with his collective of visual creators known as 4x Collective. He is proud to be part of the Hattiloo team and looks forward to sharing its mission with audiences both inside and outside the theatre walls
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.
FELICIA WHEELER (Patron Engagement Coordinator), an advocate for the power of creative expression, is a multidisciplinary artist and experienced nonprofit arts professional specializing in development and fundraising strategies. With a foundation in arts administration and education, Felicia brings a deep understanding and passion to both the artistic and operational sides of the creative + cultural sector.
In her current work, Felicia focuses on donor cultivation, relationship building and strategic resource development in order to sustain and grow arts initiatives. Ardent about advancing the arts as a tool for community empowerment, Felicia Wheeler brings both creativity and rigor to every aspect of the work that she engages in and represents.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR GENEROUS SUPPORT
Please email najwa.watson@hattilootheatre.org if your donor info needs to be updated or revised
Leadership Circle ($50,000+)
Community Foundation of Greater Memphis
Hyde Family Foundation
Memphis Tennessee Arts Commission
TN Arts Commission
Founder’s Circle ($25,000+)
ArtsZone
ArtsMemphis
Fedx Founder's Fund: In Honor of FedEx
Volunteer Karen Boozer
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
Dr. Irene Jones
Dr. Marcia Bowden
Rebecca Wilson
The Hohenberg Foundation
Thrive Grant
Director
Clinton Woods
Commodore & Emma Primous Sr.
Deep Water Media, LLC.
Gilbert Noble
Michael Campanaro
Percy & Regina Baker
Vernon H. Stafford, Jr.
William & Ann Schultz
Designer
Afrikan Village Universal Institute
Amy Simpson
Andre and Monica Wharton
Bathsheba Sams
Black Seed Fund
Clarence & Harriett Halmon
Cynthia & Keith Collins
Deborah Hester
Eclectic Eye
Elgie L Barfield
Evelyn McKinney
Gene & Carol Katz
Jan Young
Jennifer Brown
Karen Love
Katrina B Fayne
Laretha Randolph-Sargent Charitable Fund
Mrs. Eugene Katz
Nataki Palmer
Roselle Gause
Sandra Reed
Sharon Devine Harris
Stephanie Sweet
Sylvia Brown
Tabrina Davis
Terri Smith Anderson
Celebrity
Beverly Ware
Cardell & Nefertiti Orrin
Carroll & Christine M. Todd
Cheryl Browne
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc , Memphis
Alumnae Chapter
Dr. Felicia Fowler
Erik Jambor & Robin Salant
Jessica & Sandy Webb
John & Jacquelyn Dodd
Mary Magin
May Lavender
Myra & Kim Newsom
Rosanna Smith
Sekeeta Thomas
Sharon Taylor
Todd and Patricia Walker
Tori Mason
Vanelder Nichols
Verna Alexander
Star
Amber Hamilton
Andrea P Carter
Merlean Jackson-Hill
Ann M. Frogge
Ava E Hayes
Barry & Kathy Yoakum
Brenda J. Peters
Carla Smith
Carolyn Bishop
Carrie Harris
Courtney Davis
Dr. Jodice & Rev. Russell Belisle
Elise A. Hayes
Erica Griggs
Faith Morris
GH & Deborah Pigram
Gustenia Scott
Ivy McGee Blanks
Jane & Charles Lewis
Jarrod Walker
Jason Noel & Dimika Cavalier
Jerrie Y. Watkins
Jerry & Deborah Wigginson
Jessica Reese
Jewish Foundation of Memphis
Kerri Wilburn
Kimberly Cunningham
LaTeshia Ellerson
Meka Egwuekwe
Melundee Scott
Mike Jackson
Mitchell Ghant
Nobuko Igarashi
Phyllis Carter
Raumesh Akbari
Regina Echols
Rev Lou Etta Burkins
Roosevelt & Jo Ann Allen
Roy Shirkey
Sandra Quinn Bailey
Sandra Taylor
Sonia Walker
Stacy Brown
Terrena Moore
Valerie Adair
Wayne Ferguson
Willie & Sandra Brooks
Willie McNeal
Small & Mighty
Adrienne Dobbins
Alaunda Floyd
Calandra White
Alisa Wilson
Allie Gray
Allison Dulaney
Almella Starks-Umoja
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Phi Lambda
Omega Chapter
Alteena Edwards
Althea McDuffie
Alvin Harris
Andrea Sain
Angela (L.A.) Webb
Angela Eckford
Angela L. Staples
Anjel Echols
Anniace Parker
Anthony Carl Horne
Antoinette Lewis
Audrey Arrindell
Audrey Davis
Augustene Weston
Barbara Edmond
Barbara George
Bayley Simmons
Betty Ford
Beverly S. Davis
Blanchie McGaughy
Brenda Tutwiler
Bridgit Harper
Candace Obadina
Candace Tate
Carolyn Head
Carolyn Michael-Banks
Carolyn Turman
Casandra Clark
Charles Grove
Claire Kolheim
Claudette Mason
Claudia Shields
Constance Davis
Crystal Quarles
Cynthia D. Johnson
Cynthia Williams
Dawn Williams
DeAndra Kelly
DeAngella Dennis
Deb Johnson
Deborah Currie
Dee Lisa Cothran
Denise Parker
Derrick Muhammad
Detris Crane
Devonda Nelson
Dewana Edwards
Diane Austin
Donna Olds White
Dorothy Westbrook
Dr Charlotte Freeman
Dr. Cynthia Bond-Hopson
Dr. Dorsha N. James
Dr ZeVida A Jones
Elaine D. Taylor
Everett Carpenter
Everett Dishmon
Evette Vinnett
Gail Murray
Geana Ferrell
Geraldine Sykes
Grenda Poole
Gueilar Wilson
Holly Coleman
Jackie Johnson
Jackie Pride
Jackie Wilson
Jacqueline Muskin
Jacqueline Oselen
Jan Holmes Boyd
Jana Kinkle
Janet Sutton
Janice Frazier-Scott
Janice Ivory
Janiece Williamson
Janis Cowley
Javelle Spann
Jeannie Clay
Jennifer Walker
Jessie & Area Mays
Jetona Branch
Jimi Monix-Mitchell & Derrick Mitchell
Joe Calhoun
Joeann Ballard
Joseph Craig
Joy Watson
Joy Yancy
Joyce Johnson
Joyce M Turner
Juan Fuentes & Robert Thompson
Judge Rachel L. Bell
Judy Card
Judy Echols
Kaitlynn Tharpe
Kameelah Spence
Kandace Stewart
Karen Christian
Karen Cook-Pryor
Karen Reed
Karolyn Bryant
Katrina VanBuren
Kizzy Rogers
Kourtney Carpenter
Ladean J Stewart
Lance Logan Sims
LaTrice Browning
Latrice Robinson Toombs
Lavelle Mays
Lethelea Grayer
Lexsee J Waterford, Ph D
Linda Davis
Linda K. Williams
Lisa Igoni
Lisa M. Frieson
Lisa Young
Lois Williams
Loren Smith
Louise Levin
Lynnette Hall-Lewis
Mae Yancy
Mamie Turner
Margie Smith
Marilyn Powell-Jones
Marilyn Whitney
Mary J. Cooper
Mary Kyles
Michael and LeChelle Davenport
Michael Cole Sr.
Michi-Marcole Martin
Mildred Clark
Najwa Watson
Nettie Crawford
Nicole Clark
Pam Watson
Pamela Dalton
Pamela Johnson
Paris Ducker
Patricia A Braswell
Phyllis Dixon
Priscilla Davis
Priscilla Johnson
Priscilla Reed
Raymond White
Rebecca Bishop
Renita Standberry
Rhoda Jones
Robert Reeves
Rorie Trammel
Rubbie Patrick-Herring
Sam Patillo
Sandra Smith
Sandy Bolton
Selestine Pugh
Sharon Renee Williams
Sharon Shaw
Shelly Shorter
Sheorldine White
Sheronda Smith
Shunta Chevis
Smori Cooper
Sondra Brooks-Whitfield
Stephanie Pugh
Stephanie Smith
Takeitha Chambers
Tamara Rogers
Tanya Butler
Tarsha Jones, Crye-Leike Realtors
Tasha Chesser
Telesa Taylor
Teresa Peterson
Thedrick Griffin
Therese Mangold
Tonya Young
Tosha Downey
Tradinah Johnson
Tymikia & Nicholas Glenn
Tyrol & Teresa Brazzell
Valerie Fitzgerald
Vanecia Belser Kimbrow, Esq
Vanessa Conner
Velma Nelson
Veronica & Brett Batterson
Vontyna Winfrey
Will Hopkins
Wyndie Oliver
Yvon Foster
Zoe Simpson
Ensemble
Angela Ford
Cheryl Forbes
Chikeeta Numa
Dana Stith-Gray
Dorothy Mayse
Erlie Pruitt
Harold Williams
Jacqueline Sneed
Jerry B. Hemingway Sr.
Karen Brady
Karren Porter
Kelvin & Collette Vaughn
Kimberly Ferguson
Laura Lemon
Lillian & Bernice Family Foundation Fund
Linda Phillips
Lynette Miller
Mary Layton
Melissa Barton
Melodye Ruby
Melvin & Margaret Lee
Methodist EAP Team, in memory of Gwen Goodwin
Michael Detroit
Missionary Society of St. James AME Church
Morris Lipson
Rita J Cowans
Robert & Wanda Randolph
Sallie A. Boyd
Timika Sholar Mattox
Tina Milstead
Valencia Washington
ON STAGE NEXT
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