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HATTILOO BOARD OF DIRECTORS & STAFF
BOARD EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Amy Simpson, Chief Communications Leader, International Paper; Hattiloo Chair
Faith Morris, CEO, cultureLift Inc. Freedom Award Managing Director/Producer; Hattiloo Vice-Chair
Cynthia Collins, Managing Director of Litigation, FedEx; Hattiloo Secretary
Vernon Stafford, Senior Executive Vice President, & Chief Audit Executive, First Horizons; Hattiloo Treasurer
MEMBER
JocelynHenderson,AnAttorney
TabrinaDavis,VicePresident-Marketing, CommunicationsandWebStrategy, MethodistLeBonheur
MackWeaver,CFO,MemphisinMay
CarolynBishop,Director,On-Campus Living,LeMoyne-OwenCollege
MichaelCampanaro,VicePresident, InformationTechnology,AutoZone
EdithKellyGreen,Principal,KGRGroup
LindaSmith,CommunityVolunteer
CardellOrrin,ExecutiveDirector, StandforChildren
STAFF
Ekundayo Bandele, Founder & CEO
Patricia Smith, Production Manager
Jarrod Walker, Theatre Manager
Rosanna Smith, Office Manager
Najwa Watson, Engagement Coordinator
P.A. Bomani, House Manager
Hatshepsut Bandele, Customer Service Coordinator
Sulaiman Mausi, Resident Theatre Associate
ABOUTHATTILOO
Hattilooisa501(c)3missionnon-profit organization.Itsmissionis"todevelopaBlack theatrethatisaccessibleto,relevantto,and reflectiveofamulticulturalcommunity."It producesshowsthatdepictBlacklifeandthat transcendtheirentertainmentvaluebygiving audiencesanauthentic,culturalexperience Its programTheSelf-IdentityTheatreCamphelps Blackyouthacquiretoolstocarefortheir emotionalselvesininequitableand discriminatorysituations.
AsthelargestBlacktheatreintheMid-South andoneofafewfree-standingBlacktheatresin thecountry,HattilooisahubfornationalBlack theatretrainingandconvening,andouryouth programssharethisfocus.
MusicandLyric
BookbyRo
Directedb
MARY ANDRUS Guest Producer
REGGIE BENNETT
Master Carpenter
SHERRONDA JOHNSON Intimacy Choreographer
JABRIA CHANEL
Asst. Scenic Designer
LAUREN THOMAS Lighting Designer
HOUSE NOTES
AdditionalMusicandLyricsbyW ,JayRifkin
CAHLEESI BEDELL Costume Designer
ASHLEY K DAVIS Musical Director
SULAIMAN MAUSI Properties/Production Assistant
PATRICIA SMITH Production Manager
JARROD WALKER
Scenic Designer
LAWRENCE BLACKWELL Fight Choreographer
TOMISHA EDWARDS Asst. Director & Choreographer
KAYI NORTSRON Asst. Costume Designer
CYD TRICE
Projection & Sound Designer
BRONZJUAN WORTHY Stage Manager
If you exit the theatre during the show, you may not be able to return to your seat.
Camerasandrecordingequipmentarestrictlyforbiddeninthetheatre.Patrons with cell phones or any electronic device that makes noise are requested to eitherturnoffthedeviceorcheckitwiththehousemanagerpriortocurtain.
1931 - 2024
HATTILOO THEATRE HONORS JAMES EARL JONES
MEET THE PLAYWRIGHTS
ale of Simba, it is hoseiconicvoice celebrated actor passed away on left an indelible ice and powerful er. As we watch ry talent and the
Roger Allers and Irene Mecchi are the Tonynominated writing duo behind The Lion King Jr. Allers, a veteran Disney animator with credits like Aladdin and Beauty and the Beast, who brought his storytelling expertise to the project. Mecchi, a seasoned screenwriter with work on films like The Hunchback of Notre Dame and Hercules, joined forces with Allers to adapt the beloved animated classic for the stage. Together, they crafted the heartwarming and inspiring tale that has captivated audiences worldwide.
Hattiloo Theatre proudly presents The Lion King Jr., a heartwarming and inspiring musical adaptation of Disney's beloved animated classic. This captivating production brings to life the epic tale of Simba, a young lion cub destined to rule the Pride Lands.
Act I
Circle of Life with Nants’ Ingonyama ............................... Rafiki, Ensemble
Grasslands Chant ........................................................................ Ensemble
Lioness Hunt ................................................................................. Lionesses
I Just Can't Wait to be King .... Young Simba, Young Nala, Zaza, Ensemble
Be Prepared ............................................ Scar, Shenzi, Banzai, Ed, Hyenas
They Live in You .............................................................. Mufasa, Ensemble
The Stampede ............................................................................... Ensemble
The Mourning ..................... Sarabi, Young Nala, Rafiki, Lionesses, Hyenas
Act II
Hakuna Matata .............. Timon, Pumbaa, Young Simba, Simba, Ensemble
Shadowland .............................................................. Nala, Lionesses, Rafiki
Can You Feel the Love Tonight ... Timon, Pumbaa, Simba, Nala, Ensemble
He Lives in You .................................................................. Rafiki, Ensemble
Luau Hawaiian Treat ......................................... Timon, Pumbaa, Ensemble
Finale .............................................................................................. Company
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CAST
(in order of appearance)
TAYLOR
JASPER-MYLES
SIMMS
Rafiki
JAMES Mufasa
ABRIELLE GRAY Sarabi
SKYLER PERKINS Zazu
ALAN HOPKINS Scar
BRAXTON GIBSON Young Simba
LEXI LOGAN Young Nala
ALYSSA SEVIER Sarafina/Dance Captain
JADE S. MITCHELL Shenzi
KALI CARPENTER Banzai
MARLEY CLARK Ed
BROOKE TOLBERT Timon
EVERETT DISHMON Pumbaa
LUCIEN WHITE Simba
KAJA KELSON Nala
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CAST BIOs
KALICARPENTER
ALAINACURRY
Lioness,Ensemble
MALLORYDANCY Ensemble
KALICARPENTERisaveryenthusiasticandcharming13-year-old actresswithbigdreamsforthebigstage.SheisaMemphisnative withathirstfortheartsandapassionforentertainment.Shehas beenonheractingjourneyforthreeyearsnowandhasenjoyed everyroleshehasembodied.Acting,accordingtoKali,isaformof artisticexpressionthathasnolimitationsanditprovidesherwith opportunitiestodevelophermind,body,andspirit.”Shehasbeen involvedinnumerousplayswithHattiloo,includingAnnieasMs. Hannigan,andTaketheSoulTraintoChristmasasIda,andiseager todomore.
MARLEYCLARKisfromMemphis,TN.HecurrentlyattendsTNVA. Professionally,MarleyistheownerofMarleyMobileMunchiesand More.Heistheco-authorandmaincharacterofachildren’sbook entitled MarleySpeaksLifeintoYou.Marleyhasappearedinplays produced by Hattiloo Theatre such as Take the Soul Train to Christmas as Nat, Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters as Nyoka, and AnansitheSpiderandtheMiddlePassageasAnansi.
HeisnewlybreakoutwithHattiloointotheroleofEdinTheLion KingJr.Marleyaspirestodomoreinthenearfuture.
ALAINA CURRY is 8 years old and attends Bragg Elementary School. This is Alaina's first time performing at Hattiloo Theatre. AlainahasbeenapartofBalletonWheelsStudioforoverayearin balletandjazz.Shehasperformedinseveralschoolplaysandhas featured a few times with West Memphis High School Choir. In Alaina'sfreetime,sheenjoysreadingbooks,playinggameswith herbestfriend,anddrawing.
MALLORYDANCYisveryexcitedtoparticipateinTheLionKingJr. at Hattiloo Theatre. Mallory’s prior work with Hattiloo Theatre includesperformancesinMufaro’sBeautifulDaughtersasNyasha and A Holiday Cabaret Jr. Her time on those projects was transformativeandinspirationalwhichledtoherrecentcreditsat theStaxMusicAcademySummerExplosionasavocalanddance performer.
MalloryisanincomingfreshmanatWhiteStationHighSchooland enjoystraveling,hangingwithherbesties,andattendingtoherdog Miami. She hopes to continue her performance on stage and to study music to become a professional singer. She would like to thankherentirevillageforalwayssupportingherendeavors.
Banzai
MARLEYCLARK
Ed
EVERETTEDISHMONisecstatictomakehisHattiloodebutinLion King, Jr! He's previously been featured in his school plays, Spongebob Musical Youth Edition and The Little Mermaid, Jr. Everettisanaspiringactorandphilanthropist.Helovesperforming onstage, singing, and dancing. When he's not busy rehearsing, Everett enjoys playing baseball, basketball, video games, public speaking,swimming,traveling,andspendingtimewithfamilyand friends,especiallyhisoldersiblings,BiancaandEvan.Everett'sso grateful for this opportunity and sends a special thanks to his fellowcastmates,crew,andeveryonewhoworkedhardtomake thisproductionahugesuccess!
BRAXTONGIBSON,afreshmanfromCrockettCounty,isexcitedto makehisdebutatHattilooTheatre.Hehasapassionforthestage andhasappearedinnumerousproductions,withhismostrecent roles being Travis in A Raisin in the Sun and Michael in Mary Poppins at Theatre Memphis. Braxton is deeply grateful to his parents for their unwavering love and support, and to Hatiloo’s productionteamforthisincredibleopportunity.
ABRIELLE GRAY, a Musical Theatre major at the University of Memphis She is an alto singer who loves playing softball and practicingtheviolin.Shealsohasapassionfordancinginthestyle ofcontemporary
ALANHOPKINSisgratefultobeinthiscastandmakehisdebuton theHattiloostage.AlanisaJunioratCrosstownHighSchooland was last seen in the cast at Theatre Memphis in Cinderella and SisterActtheMusical.Hehasbeeninmanyotherproductionsat CrosstownHighandaroundMemphisandNorthMississippi.
Thankyoutotheaudienceforbeingheretoseeusperform.Thank youtomycastmatesandThankyouBronzandMissKim!!
“Normalize telling your friends you love them.” Quoted from WesleyWilliamsonwhowillforeverbeaprimaryinfluenceinAlan’s theaterexperience.
JASPER-MYLESJAMESisveryexcitedtobeapartof"LionKingJr" atHattilooTheatre.HerecentlyworkedwithHattilooon"Carmen Jones the Musical" as Kid B and Highschooler, on "Mufaro's Beautiful Daughters" as Mufaro, and on "Holiday Cabaret" as Jasper.AlthoughJasperhasperformedinnumerousschoolplays, heenjoyswritingasahobbyandistheauthorofabookofshort storiestitled,"FromaChaoticTowntoFindingmyWorthinit." EVERETTDISHMON
KAJAKELSONisa12thgraderatHornLakeHighSchool.Sheisan honor student who is a member of the Horn Lake Choir, Cheer Team, and Beta Club. She has performed locally around the city andhasbeencastinmanytheaterproductions.Sheisanaspiring artist and actress who plans to attend an HBCU when she graduates and pursue her music career in Music Production and AudioRecording.
LEXILOGANisabuddingstarwhohasapassionfortheperforming arts.Whethersinging,dancing,oracting,sheissuretobringjoy andenergytothestage.LexiisthrilledtoplayYoungNalainThe HattilooTheater'sLionKingJr.production.Sheishavingthetime ofherlifewiththisincrediblecastandthankseveryoneinvolved.
JAYLAMCMILLANisaneighthgraderandsheenjoysexpressing herself in the theatre world. Lion King Jr. is the third production she’sparticipatedinwithHattilooTheatre.Shealsoenjoyssinging, dancing,andspendingtimewithherfamily.
JADE S MITCHELL is a talented young performer with a strong backgroundinacting,singing,anddancing.Trainedbyhermother, Jadehasalreadyachievedsignificantsuccessinhercareer.Asa rising8thgraderatColonialMiddleCAPA,shehasbeeninvolvedin numerousperformances,includingtheschoolproductionofAnnie Jr. and the MSCS "See the Future" music video. Jade is also a member of the Colonial Middle CAPA Choir and the All-West Tennessee Junior Chorus, and she has served as the Mid-South Fair Spokes-Kid. In addition to her performing talents, Jade is a cheerleader,amotivationalspeaker,andayouthchoirdirector.
Inrecognitionofherachievements,Jadehasbeenhonoredasan MSCS Superintendent's Legacy Builder, a Keeper of The Dream AwardeebytheNationalCivilRightsMuseum,andawinnerofthe MSCS Black History Fine Arts Writing Contest Her songwriting creditsincludeMemphisandBeyondforPerfectingGifts,Inc.,and afeatureon885Radio
JAYLAMCMILLAN Lioness,Ensemble
JADES.MITCHELL Shenzi
JOYSMITCHELL
Ensemble
SKYLERPERKINS
Zazu
ALYSSASEVIER
Sarafina/DanceCaptain
TAYLORSIMMS
JOYS.MITCHELLisatalentedyoungperformerwithapassionfor singing, acting, and voice-over work. From a young age, Joy has demonstrated exceptional talent in music and has already achievedsignificantsuccess.Shehascreatedatleasttenoriginal songs and numerous jingles and melodies, showcasing her boundless creativity and musical talent. Her original works and viralvideoshavegarneredrecognitionfromcelebritiesandgospel musicstars.
JoyiscurrentlyastudentatRichlandElementarySchoolandhas performedinnumerousshowsandevents,showcasingherstrong vocalabilitiesandstagepresence.Inadditiontoherstagework, Joy has also ventured into voice-over work and public speaking. Withabrightfutureahead,Joyiseagertocontinuedevelopingher skillsandmakinghermarkintheperformingarts.
SKYLERPERKINSenjoysspendingtimeoutdoors,skating,andwith hersignificantother.Sheiscurrentlystudyingtobecomeamedical coderandbiller Theatreandsinginghavebeenalifelongpassion, andshelovesexpressingherselfthroughhercharacters.
ALYSSA SEVIER is a triple threat who has been captivating audiences with her remarkable talents in theater. She has been seenontheNSPAstageasOlafinFrozenJr,PatrickinSpongeBob Jr on the Warehouse Theater stage, and now Sarafina at The HattilooTheatre.Shethanksherfamilyandfriendsforsupporting herineverythingaswellasheramazingcastmatesandeveryone involvedinmakingthisshowpossible.
TAYLOR SIMMS, vocal recording artist and songwriter, has been performing since the age of six. She is a graduate of Soulsville Charter School and an alumna of Stax Music Academy. Her experienceincludesstageconcerts,privateevents,andsupporting rolesinplayssuchasRentandHairspray.TaylorfirstplayedRafiki inher8th-gradeyearofschool.Sheishonoredtoreprisetherole ofRafikiforHattilooTheatre.
CHARLI STEELE “Charli-K,” a cheerful 11-year-old, makes her debutatHattiloo!Inballet/tap,shehasgracedthestagesofthe CannonCenter,OrpheumTheatre,BuckmanTheatre,andSparks Auditorium-initiallyforDazzleBBC,LLCandcurrentlyforCollage DanceCollective.Shehasperformedinsummercamp,Easter,and black history programs, and the Kingdom Kids Choir with First Baptist Church-Broad Ave. Charli loves spending time with family/friendsandplayingwithherdollsandRobloxgames.
Rafiki
BROOKE G. TOLBERT is a talented and charismatic young actress and a bright star on the rise. With an undeniable passion for the performing arts, Brooke charms audiences with her natural talent and infectious energy. From her captivating stage presence to her ability to bring classic television and movie scenes to life through her skits, she mesmerizes viewers with her performances. With a blossoming career, Brooke is set to make her mark in the world of entertainment. Also known through her brand Life With Brooke G, she inspires others with her talent, determination, and boundless potential.
Lioness,Ensemble
LUCIEN WHITE, a Memphis Native, has been acting since mentary being blessed with great opportunities. As an outgoing extroverted person, he's always willing to speak his mind and ead his ideas. Although he has mainly performed in stage plays, h as "Kill Move Paradise" at Hattiloo Theater or 26 Pebbes at rton High School, he's also been featured on Fox 13, played s in short films, and has been chosen to deliver a TED talk. erred to as "young talent" he hopes to continue receiving great ortunities and support. Connect with him on Instagram uckyboiperson) or via email (supermanlucien@gmail com)
AN JANIN WHITE is a 13-year-old with a passion for creativity. expresses herself through singing, dancing, acting, and art. h experience in dance and stage management from Rozelle mentary, Kiran continues to hone her skills in music and art at gmont Middle School.
LUCIENWHITE Simba
KIRANJANINWHITE
BROOKE G.TOLBERT Timon
NOW ACCEPTING SUBMISSIONS!
CREW BIOs
MARYANDRUS GuestProducer
CAHLEESIBEDELL Costume Designer
REGINALDBENNETTSR. MasterCarpenter
MARY ANDRUS is grateful to assist with the role of Guest Producer to make sure that the production of Lion King Jr. runs with the utmost integrity of the playwright. Mary is an Ensemble Member of Hattiloo Theatre and an actress for 18 years. She wants to thank her family and friends for their support. Also, she wants to thank the parents for trusting us with their young people and allowing us to mold them into the best versions of themselves.
CAHLEESI BEDELL is excited to work with the Hatiloo Theatre on Carmen Jones as a part of the pit choir and costume design team. Her recent works include Bride-to-be in Venus and costume designer for The Bacchae of Euripides: A Communion, both with the Kent State University Pan-African Theatre. Cahleesi studied costume design at Kent State University, where she received her minor in Costume Design and Technology. During her studies at Kent State, she found a passion for costume design that continues to grow even outside of her studies. She's grateful to her family, and especially her parents, for encouraging her creativity which allowed her to explore artistic avenues such as theatre and costume.
REGINALD BENNETT SR. 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
LAWRENCEBLACKWELL
FightChoreographer
LAWRENCE BLACKWELL is excited to return to Hattiloo Theatre to direct one of Black theatre’s most iconic works, A Raisin In The Sun. His directing credits at Hattiloo include August Wilson’s Gem of the Ocean, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, and Radio Golf, as well as Detroit 67, If Scrooge Were a Brother, and Kill, Move, Paradise. In addition, he has created, directed, and performed over twenty pieces that explore African American and Afro-Latino themes and history.
JABRIA CHANEL is a self-taught set designer based out of Memphis, TN, and co-designer for the production of Lion King Jr. Jabria made her way into professional theatre at Hattiloo under the guidance and mentorship of Patricia Smith. Jabria is a Southwest TN Community College student, obtaining an A.F.A. degree in Theatre Scenic Design while interning at Theatre Memphis. Jabria would love to thank Ekundayo Bandele & Hattiloo for this fantastic opportunity to design her first theatre set!
ASHLEYK DAVIS
MusicProducer
ANTHONYJAMES
Asst StageManager
SHERRONDAWHITMORE JOHNSON
IntimacyChoreographer
ASHLEYK.DAVIS isfromMemphis,Tennessee.HeholdsDoctoral, Master,&Bachelorsdegreesinmusic&adualMastersdegreesin Theology Currently, Ashley is an Assistant Professor of Music at LeMoyne-Owen College. He is the recipient of various awards & honors including the 50th Anniversary Jubilee Gospel Concert Musical Director for Queen Elizabeth, Composer for the EmmynominatedPBSdocumentary,“TheLeastAmongUs,"Recipientof anOstranderAward,&aBroadwayWorldAward.
ANTHONYT.JAMEShasbeenaMemphianfor34years!In2007, he was introduced to performing arts by way of YO! Memphis PerformingArtsAcademy.Sincethenhehasbeenapartofseveral theaterproductions,bothonandoffthestage.In2013,'AJ'made his Hattiloo debut in 'Grease'. Hattiloo Credits: “Grease”, “If Scroogewasabrother”,'Whowillbellthecat',"InTheHeights"& and‘FiveGuysNamedMoe’!…Ontheindependenttheatrescene, AJ became the director & stage manager phenomenon while producingandenrichingartatitsbest…..AJisgratefultoHattiloo foryetANOTHERStageManagementopportunity.
SHERRONDAWHITMOREJOHNSONensuresthatactorsdon’ttrip overemotionsduringvulnerableorawkwardscenes.Thinkofher asacombinationofCupidandalifeguard,keepingyoungactors safewhencharactersexplorerelationshipswithfriendsandfamily. Sherrondaensuresthattouchingandhuggingbetweencharacters arehandledwithcareandauthenticity.Herrecentprojectsinclude A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Grease, Cinderella, Beautiful: The CaroleKingMusical,TheGlassMenagerie,andARaisinintheSun at Theatre Memphis; Paradise Blue, Carmen Jones, Succession, Father Comes Home from the Wars Parts 1, 2, and 3, The Color Purple, and Porgy and Bess at Hattiloo Theatre; and Mississippi Goddamn at Circuit Playhouse. Sherronda is grateful to Hattiloo, the cast, and their parents for their support as we navigate all formsoffriendships.
MELANIEMULDER ScenicPainter
SULAIMAN MAUSI JR. is a 23-year-old creative from Detroit, Michigan, and a recent graduate of Morehouse College in Spring 2023.HereceivedhisBachelor'sdegreeinTheaterPerformance and has been a helping hand to Hattiloo Theater ever since. SulaimanhasrecentlyworkedasastagehandinTheColorPurple andasanactorinTaketheSoulTrainToChristmas(2023),and Succession.Heissuperexcitedtobeapartofmoreproductionsin thefuture!
MELANIEMULDERisproudtobedesigninganothersetatHattiloo 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 yearsworkingintheatre.SomeofthetheatresMelaniehasworked for are The Roundabout Theatre, The Vineyard Theatre, The Signature Theatre, (NYC); Williamstown Theatre Festival in Main; LakeGeorgeOperainNewYork;SeasideMusicTheatreinFlorida; Northern Stage in Vermont; The Nashville Shakespeare Festival andTheCumberlandCountyPlayhouse,bothinTennessee.
PATRICIASMITH
GuestProducer
LAURENTHOMAS
LightingDesigner
CYDNIETRICE
Projection&SoundDesigner
PATRICIA SMITH has an extensive resume which includes film as well as theatre. She has performed, directed, and costumed shows at home and abroad. Director of Hattiloo’s Black Nativity with the Memphis Symphony Orchestra. Most recently she costumed “Sistas the Musical” and “Mahalia the Gospel”. Last seen on stage as Lena Younger in “Raisin”.
LAUREN THOMAS is a professional Lighting Designer and Stage Manager and is so excited to be back to design their second show at Hattiloo! She holds a B.S. in Theatre with a minor in Spanish at MTSU. Their recent lighting credits include Coconut Cake (Hattiloo), Finding Nemo Jr (Cumberland County Playhouse), and SpongeBob the Musical Jr (Cumberland County Playhouse). She would like to thank her friends, family, and fiancée, Toriya for their support! They hope you enjoy the show! Lftdesigns.com
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 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 production of Lion King Jr.
JARRODWALKER
SetDesigner
KIM“SUNSHINE”WICKS Director
Jarrod Walker is delighted to be able to express his creativity at Hattiloo Theatre He was the director of the Drama Ministry at Elizabeth Baptist Church (Atlanta) for 6 years and directed several productions 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.
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 from director to stage manager, and more. Kim has served as Assistant Director with Hattiloo Theatre for Gem of the Ocean, Velveteen Rabbit, and Sistas the Musical. She has also served as Stage Manager with Hattiloo Theatre since 2016, working on shows such as 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. She is thankful to her backbone–her moms.
StageManager
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, Ostrander Award-winning Camila Rosario in In the Heights, 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 served as the stage manager for Blues in the Night. She also performs with the Memphis Black Arts Alliance. ‘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) founded Hattiloo in 2006. Among his directing credits are August Wilson’s “Joe Turner’s Come and Gone” and Katori Hall’s “Hurt Village.” From 2012 - 2014, he spearheaded a $4.3M capital campaign that resulted in the construction of Hattiloo’s 14,000-square-foot venue that opened debtfree in 2014 Also, in 2014, he worked as an assistant to Tony Award-winning director Ruben Santiago Hudson at the Williamstown Theatre Festival’s production of “Paradise Blue.” In 2017, he co-led, with Teresa Eyering, Theatre Communication Group’s executive director, a theatre management course at the University of Orduman in Khartoum, Sudan. In 2019 he produced “Ain’t Misbehavin” at Spazio Teatro No'hma in Milan, Italy. In 2020, Hattiloo returned to Milan with “Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill,” and again in July 2023 with “Mahalia: Queen of Gospel Music.” Ekundayo is a Fellow at the DeVos Institute of Arts Management at the University of Maryland. He is a recent graduate of Morehouse College
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.
Sulaiman Mausi Jr. (Resident Theatre Associate) is a recent graduate of Morehouse College in Spring 2023. He received his Bachelor's degree in Theater Performance and has been helping out at Hattiloo Theater ever since. He has recently starred as Steve Harrison in Hattiloo Theatre’s Succession and is excited to be a part of more productions in the future.
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.
STAY IN THE LOOP
Hattiloo Theatre always has something going on, both on stage and off. Sign up today using this button and be among the first to know what’s happening at Hattiloo. CLICK HERE
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.
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 Foundations
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.
Nancy Starnes
Overton Square, LLC
Shelby County Government
Turley Foundation, Inc.
Producer
Bowden Internal Medicine, Pllc
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
Roselle Gause
Gilliland Family Fund, Inc.
Katrina Fayne
Lucia Gilliland
Gene & Carol Katz
Mary & Scott Morris
International Paper
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
Sharon Barnett-Myers
Cherylo Browne
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
Donald & Lucy McLemore
Rona Mogil
Vanelder Nichols
Robin Salant
Bathsheba Sams
River Arts Festival
Rosanna Smith
Sekeeta Thomas
Carroll & Christine Todd
Christine M Todd
Varnell Fund
Todd & Patricia Walker
Jessica & Sandy Webb
A.C. & Ruby Wharton
Judith B. Williams
Star
Valerie Adair
Elsie Lewis Bailey
Sandra Quinn Bailey
Dr. Jodice & Rev. Russell Belisle
Jolie Bernard
Ivy McGee Blanks
Ruby Bright
Willie & Sandra Brooks
Lou Etta Burkins
Pamela Clary
Robert & Sheila Cohen
Charlie & Mauveleane Cook
Courtney Davis
Rosie Davis
John & Jacquelyn Dodd
Regina Echols
Jerome Edwards
Meka Egwuekwe
V. Lynn Evans
Les & Janet Freeman
Ann M. Frogge
Mitchell Ghant
Erica Griggs
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
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
Juanita Austin
Tonia Bailey-Johnson
Joeann Ballard
Judge Rachel L. Bell
Danielle BerryLeach
Zita & Glenn Blakenship
Sandy Bolton
Patricia A Braswell
Tyrol & Teresa Brazzell
Tereasa Breckenridge
Marilyn Brent
Matthew Brown
Dwayne Bryant
Karolyn Bryant
Joe Calhoun
Judy Card
Everett Carpenter
Kourtney Carpenter
Andrea Carter
Phyllis Carter
Jason Noel & Dimika Cavalier
Takeitha Chambers
Tasha Chesser
Mildred Clark
Jeannie Clay
Mary J. Cooper
Smori Cooper
Ida Cotton
Janis Cowley
Jospeh Craig
Nettie Crawford
Constance Davis
Dr. Nikki Dyer
Judy Echols
Angela Eckford
Barbara Edmond
Alteena Edwards
Lillian & Bernice Family Foundation Fund
Wayne Ferguson
Geana Ferrell
Eric & Chandra Ford
Dr Charlotte Freeman
Crystal Frye
Tameka Gant
Barbara George
Tymikia & Nicholas Glenn
Thedrick Griffin
Alvin Harris
Shantel Harris
Donna Hayes
Carolyn Head
Dr. Cynthia Bond-Hopson
Anthony Carl Horne
Veda Howse
Mike Jackson
Dr. Dorsha N. James
Cynthia D. Johnson
Eric & Cynthia Johnson
Fred & Dorothy Johnson
Jackie Johnson
Joyce Johnson
Tradinah Johnson
Priscilla Johnson
Melissa Joiner
Marilyn Powell-Jones
Rhoda Jones
DeAndra Kelly
Jana Kinkle
Claire Kolheim
Mary Kyles
Kathy Ladner
Louise Levin
Michael Love
Therese Mangold
Claudette Mason
Lavelle Mays
Althea McDuffie
Blanchie McGaughy
Jennifer McGrath
Lea Moore
Jewel Morrow
Sandra L. Motley
Gail Murray
Jacqueline Muskin
Velma Nelson
Wynetta Noland
Candace Obadina
Jacqueline Oselen
E. Gari & Davondra Owens
Sam Patillo
Lou Paris
Anniace Parker
Teresa Peterson
Selestine Pugh
Crystal Quarles
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
Lynda Skillom
Margie Smith
Angela L. Staples
Almella Starks-Umoja
Ladean J. Stewart
Geraldine Sykes
Cynthia Taper
Juan Fuentes & Robert Thompson
Maria Todd
Rorie Trammel
Joyce Turner
Mamie Turner
Brenda Tutwiler
Katrina VanBuren
Evette Vinnett
Stephanie Watkins
Pam Watson
Donna & Charles White
Donna Olds White
Raymond White
Sheorldine White
Marilyn Whitney
Charles Williams
Cynthia Williams
Dawn Williams
Lynda K. Williams
Gueilar Wilson
Vontyna Winfrey
Mae Yancy
Helena Walton Yarborugh
Ensemble
Charles Belenky
Sallie A Boyd
Patricia A Braswell
Rita J. Cowans
Michael Detroit
Norman Dodson
Patty Hanna
Patricia Hewitt
Beulah Kasselberg
Myra & Kim Newsom
Terrena Moore
Brandi Nicole
Carol A Risher
Wayne Risher
St. James AME Church
Amy Wilson
Cares About People
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