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HATTILOO BOARD
BOARD EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
OF DIRECTORS & STAFF STAFF
Faith Morris, CEO, cultureLift Inc
Freedom Award Managing
Director/Producer; Hattiloo Chair
Cynthia Collins, Managing Director of Litigation, FedEx; Hattiloo Secretary
Vernon Stafford, Senior Executive Vice President, & Chief Audit Executive, First Horizons; Hattiloo Treasurer
MEMBERS
Carolyn Bishop, Director, On-Campus Living, LeMoyne-Owen College
Michael Campanaro, Vice President, Information Technology, AutoZone
Tabrina Davis, Vice PresidentMarketing, Communications and Web Strategy, Methodist Le Bonheur
Jocelyn Henderson, An Attorney
Cardell Orrin, Executive Director, Stand for Children
Amy Simpson, Chief Communications Leader, International Paper
Linda Smith, Community Volunteer
Ekundayo Bandele, Founder & CEO
Patricia Smith, Production Manager
Jarrod Walker, Theatre Manager
Rosanna Smith, Office Manager
Najwa Watson, Engagement Coordinator
Hatshepsut Bandele, Customer Service Coordinator
P.A. Bomani, House Manager
Zaria Crawford, Customer Service
Representative
Nate Herrington, Marketing Coordinator
Felicia Wheeler, Patron Engagement Coordinator
ABOUT HATTILOO
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 discriminatory situations.
As the largest Black theatre in the MidSouth 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.
EKUNDAYO BANDELE d /
MADAGASCA DVENTURE JR.
Based on the DreamWorks Animation Motion Picture Book by Kevin Del Aguila
Original Music and Lyrics by George Noriega & Joel Someillan
Madagascar – A Musical Adventure Jr. is presented through special arrangement with and all authorized materials are supplied by Music Theatre International, New York, NY (212) 541-4684 mtishows.com
ASHLEY DAVIS
Music Director
Directed by BRONZJUAN WORTHY
TOMISHA EDWARDS
Choreographer
LAUREN THOMAS
Lighting Designer
KIM WICKS
Fight Choreographer
HOUSE NOTES
KARLON DOCKERY
Sound/Audio Engineer
DEJA PATTON Asst. Choreographer
CYD TRICE
Sound & Projection Designer
MELODY DOUGLAS Costume Designer
KRISTI STEELE Stage Manager
JARROD WALKER Set Designer
Ifyouexitthetheatreduringtheshow,youmaynotbeabletoreturntoyourseat. Camerasandrecordingequipmentarestrictlyforbiddeninthetheatre.Patrons withcellphonesoranyelectronicdevicethatmakesnoisearerequestedto eitherturnoffthedeviceorcheckitwiththehousemanagerpriortothecurtain.
It's Showtime
Wild And Free
Best Friends
Relax, Be Cool, Chill Out
ACTI
SceneI:CentralParkZoo
Zoosters, Penguins, Zookeepers, NY Zoo Tourist Ensemble
Marty, Dream Marty, Zookeepers, NY Zoo Tourist Ensemble
Alex, Marty, Mason
Grand Central
Penguins' Sea Shanty
SceneII:NewYorkCitySt.
Zoosters, Penguins, Police Officers, Old Lady, Subway Announcer, Animal Control, NY Subway Ensemble
Zoosters, Penguins
Welcome to Me
I Like To Move It
Steak
SceneIII:TheBoattoAfrica
Skipper, Kowalski, Rico, Private
ACTII
SceneIV:TheBeachofMadagascar
King Julien, Lemurs
King Julien, Lemurs, Zoosters
Alex, Lead Servers, Steak
SceneV:TheBoattoAntarctica
Penguins' Sea Shanty (Reprise)
Living In Paradise
Foosa Hungry
Skipper, Kowalski, Rico, Private
SceneVI:BeautifulWateringHole
Zoosters, Lemurs, Ensemble
SceneVII:ScaryFoosaTerritory
Best Friends (Reprise)
The King Of Madagascar
Together Forever
I Like to Move It (Reprise)
Foosa Marty, Alex
Zoosters, Foosa, Lemurs
Full Company
SYNOPSIS
Alex the lion is the king of the urban jungle, the main attraction at New York’s Central Park Zoo. He and his best friends Marty the zebra, Melman the giraffe and Gloria the hippo have spent their whole lives in blissful captivity before an admiring public and with regular meals provided for them. Not content to leave well enough alone, Marty lets his curiosity get the better of him and makes his escape with the help of some prodigious penguins to explore the world.
MEET THE PLAYWRIGHT
Kevin Del Aguila
Kevin Del Aguila is an Emmy Award–winning writer, actor, and director based in New York City. He’s best known as the book writer of the hit musical Altar Boyz and for his work on PBS’s Peg + Cat. His writing credits include The Greekest of Tragedies (Heideman Award), The Astonishing Return of the Protagonists!, and stage adaptations of Madagascar and Storytime Live, both of which toured nationally. For Theatreworks USA, he created Off-Broadway...
...favorites like Click Clack Moo and Skippyjon Jones, earning Lortel and Drama Desk nominations. His screen work includes Henry Hugglemonster, The Wonder Pets, and the films Band Dorks and Cupidity.
As a director, Kevin has led Lincoln Center Theater’s Celebration of Student Songs since 2008 and premiered musicals such as See Rock City and Other Destinations and Funked Up Fairy Tales. He has also directed numerous Theatreworks USA and Off-Broadway productions. Onstage, Kevin originated roles in Broadway’s Peter and the Starcatcher and Rocky, and has appeared in Love’s Labour’s Lost (Shakespeare in the Park) and Jacques Brel Is Alive & Well.... His voice can be heard in Disney’s Frozen and PBS’s Peg + Cat, and he has appeared on Law & Order: SVU.
Kevin holds a BFA from UC Santa Barbara and an MFA from Temple University. He is a member of the Dramatists Guild, Stage Directors and Choreographers Society, and Actors’ Equity Association.
MARLEYCLARK Skipper
MICKHELCOOK KingJulien/Pedestrian
GINGERCHANDLER Lew/Ensemble
WILLIAMDWYER Kowalski
COHENCOOPER Alex DUCHESSCATHEY Foosa/Ensemble
KENSINGTONIVORY Lars/Ensemble
JASPERJAMES Foosa/Ensemble
JADES MITCHELL Ensemble
BELLAGANT Mason/FoosaLeader
CHRISTIANGRAY Private
AMAH’ELLILAVOIS Lee/Ensemble
JOYMITCHELL Rico
ETHANMONROEPERSON Mort/Ensemble AMIRASADE’ Foosa/Ensemble ALYSSASEVIER Gloria
ALEXISEVIER Maurice/Ensemble
Marty
CHARLISTEELE Foosa/Ensemble
Melman
CAST BIOS
MARLEY CLARK Skipper
MARLEY CLARK is a Memphis native and student at Soulsville Charter Middle School. In addition to his academic pursuits, Marley is the owner of Marley Mobile Munchies and More and the co-author and central character of the children’s book Marley Speaks Life into You. His forthcoming second book, Marley Finds Music, is scheduled for release soon. Marley’s stage credits include performances at Hattiloo Theatre in Take the Soul Train to Christmas (Nat), Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters (Nyoka), Anansi the Spider, the Middle Passage (Anansi), and The Lion King Jr. (Ed). He has also performed at the Orpheum Theatre in a Camp SAY production. He is delighted to return to Hattiloo in the role of Skipper in Madagascar 2. Marley aspires to continue developing his craft with future goals that include Broadway d film.
MICKHEL COOK
King Julien/ Pedestrian
COHEN COOPER Alex
CKHEL COOK is extremely proud to be apart of the cast Madagascar. Mickhel lives in Memphis, Tennessee and ends White Station High School. He has recently become ore involved with Hattiloo, having worked lights for their oductions of Black Odyssey and The Boy Who Kissed The Sky. His father, James Cook, has heavily inspired him to pursue the arts of theatre, and Mickhel hopes to leave an impact. From running around the old Hattiloo building as a child to being on the current Hattiloo stage!
COHEN COOPER is making waves in the entertainment ndustry. With passion, dedication, and natural talent, Cohen hines in every performance, captivating audiences and eaving a lasting impact. From commercials and TV shows to music videos, films, and stage, he showcases versatility and authenticity. Outside of acting, Cohen enjoys singing, playing guitar and piano, and spending time with family and friends. He is active in his church community and participates in the Memphis Chorale Arts-Youth Division, Bridge Builders Collaborate, and the Kooler Kids Performing Arts Initiative.
DUCHESS CATHEY
Foosa/Ensemble
GINGER CHANDLER
Lew/Ensemble
DUCHESS CATHEY is 6 years old and this is her first acting performance ever! She’s in 1st grade at Dexter Elementary where she is on the gymnastics team. She likes to dance, sing, flip, and read. She loves her family. Duchess’s favorite color is purple, and her favorite thing to do is to turn flips. She is so excited to be a part of this production; she looks forward to many more.
GER CHANDLER is thrilled to make her stage debut in agascar! An 11-year-old middle school student from n Lake, MS, she has always loved singing, dancing, and orming for friends and family. When she isn’t on stage, er is an avid reader and researcher, enjoys baking, is fond of all things animals, and can be found watching the latest K-Dramas! Ginger is excited to share her first theater with this amazing cast and crew and thanks her their love, encouragement, and support of her o the performing arts!
WILLIAM DWYER
Kowalski
DWYER is excited to appear in Madagascar! His and supporting roles include; (Newsies), (Annie ka Jr.), (Finding Nemo Jr.), (Seussical Jr.), and er productions, voiced over on The Night Before and a podcast (Little Kids, Big Hearts), and in a l for Entrepreneur Kids App. William loves acting nging.
GANT is a rising young performer with experience in g Nemo Jr. (Squirt/Ensemble), A Christmas Cabaret oo Theatre), and Ultimate Superstar (Simone). She has d in voice, dance, tumbling, and gymnastics, and loves g, performing, and creating videos. Bella is excited to continue growing in the performing arts!
BELLA GANT Mason/ Foosa Leader
CHRISTIAN GRAY
Private
KENSINGTON IVORY
Lars/Ensemble
RISTIAN GRAY is an 8-year-old aspiring actor making debut at Hattiloo Theatre. With a big imagination and erful personality, he's excited to bring his energy and ativity to the stage. Always eager to learn, Christian is ited to grow as an actor and make his first stage experience a memorable one!
KENSINGTON IVORY is excited to join the Madagascar Jr. production. A 7th grader at St. George’s, she is a member of the tennis team and has studied ballet, jazz, and tap for over eight years. She has appeared in school productions and at Playhouse on the Square Summer Camp. She also serves on Honor Council.
JASPER JAMES
Foosa/Ensemble
AMAH’EL LILAVOIS
Lee/Ensemble
SPER JAMES is very excited to be a part of Madagascar at Hattiloo Theatre. He recently worked with Hattiloo on n King Jr. as Mufasa, Carmen Jones as Kid B and hschooler, Mufaro's Beautiful Daughters as Mufaro, and Holiday Cabaret as Jasper. Although, Jasper has performed in numerous school plays, he enjoys writing as a hobby and is the author of a book of short stories titled, m a Chaotic Town to Finding my Worth in it.
AH’EL LILAVOIS is a joyful 10-year-old who loves ting, reading, cooking, building, and acting! She’s thrilled e in the Madagascar ensemble and dreams of acting in ar one day right alongside James Cameron. Big thanks amily and friends for all their love and support
JOY MITCHELL Rico
ITCHELL is a vibrant young singer, actress, and voicetist. She has performed at the Cannon Center and he national anthem at major events, including the s District Convention and AutoZone National Sales g. An honors and CLUE student with perfect ance, Joy trains in the arts through Perfecting Gifts, Inc. She returns to Hattiloo after shining in The Lion King Jr. and is excited to be part of Madagascar Jr.
JADE S. MITCHELL is a talented young performer with a strong background in acting, singing, and dancing. Trained by her mother, Jade has already achieved significant success in her career. As a freshman at Memphis (THE) Central High School, she has been involved in numerous performances, including the school production of Annie Jr., Lion King Jr. at Hattiloo Theatre, and the MSCS "See the Future" music video. Jade is also a member of Central High’s Advanced Chorus and the All-West Tennessee Junior Chorus, and she has served as the Mid-South Fair SpokesKid twice in a row. In addition to her performing talents, Jade is a Varsity Central cheerleader, a motivational speaker, and a youth choir director. In recognition of her achievements, Jade has been honored as an MSCS Superintendent's “Legacy Builder”, a “Keeper of The Dream” Awardee by the National Civil Rights Museum, and the 1st place of the MSCS Black History Fine Arts Contest. Her songwriting credits include Memphis and Beyond for Perfecting Gifts, Inc., and a feature on 88.5 Radio. ETHAN MONROE PERSON is thrilled to make his Hattiloo Theatre debut as Mort in Madagascar! A Memphis native who attends Holy Rosary Catholic school as a 3rd grade student. He recently portrayed Benjamin Banneker in Missing Pieces (Hattiloo Theatre). Ethan enjoys playing soccer, singing for the Holy Rosary Catholic School Musical Choir, and plans to be a professional animator and soccer athlete.
AMIRA SADE´ is thrilled to make her debut with Hattiloo Theatre! After years of watching her mom perform on this stage, it’s finally her turn. A true triple threat—singer, dancer, and actress Amira is no stranger to the spotlight. She is a proud member of the renowned L.Y.E. Academy DanceTeamandanhonorrollstudent.
Amira recently appeared in her first play, Cinderella Jr. at Ruffin Theatre, and will soon be seen in Annie Jr. (July/Orphan)andFrozenJr.(Bulda/ElsaUnderstudy).When she’snotperforming,sheenjoysdrawingandwritingmusic.
ETHAN MONROE PERSON Mort/Ensemble
AMIRA SADE´ Foosa/Ensemble
JADE S. MITCHELL Ensemble
ALYSSA SEVIER Gloria/ Dance Captain
ALEXI SEVIER
SASEVIERisatriplethreatwhohasbeencaptivating nces with her remarkable talents in theater. She has seenontheNSPAstageasOlafinFrozenJr.,Patrickin geBob Jr. at Warehouse Theater, and Sarafina in The King Jr. at Hattiloo Theatre. Alyssa thanks her family riends for supporting her in everything and is excited oduction(castandcrew).
GANSEVIER is a budding star who has a passion s. Whether singing, dancing, or acting, she is sure oy and energy to the stage. She has been seen on oo stage as Young Nala in The Lion King Jr. Alexi hrilledtobeapartofthisproductionandishaving hankyoutoeveryoneinvolved!
CHARLI STEELE Foosa/Ensemble
STEELE makes her second debut at Hattiloo! She y had ensemble roles in The Lion King, Jr. in fall arli has received ballet training in the past with BC,LLC,andcurrentlyreceivesballet,modern,and ing with Collage Dance Collective. Charli is a of the Kingdom Kids Choir and Dance Ministry at ptist Church-Broad, where she has participated in several youth productions. She has been an honor society student and a strings orchestra (violin) member in elementary school and hopes to continue through middle school. Charli enjoys swimming and playing outside, spending time with her family and friends, and playing Robloxgames.
BROOKE TOLBERT
Marty
AMARI WINTERS
Melman
OKE TOLBERT is a talented and charismatic young actress a bright star on the rise. With an undeniable passion for the rming arts, Brooke charms audiences with her natural t and infectious energy. From her captivating stage ence 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 her boundless potential.
MIRA WINTERS is making their Hattiloo Theatre debut in adagascar Jr. as Melman! Amari has performed for ordova High School in a production of Fame and sang for e choir at World Over-comers Church! Outside of theatre, Amari enjoys writing and singing. He takes care of his dog, Midnight, and grandmother, Patricia Harris. Amari is following his dream of becoming a professional actor, and enjoys doing it more than anything! They would like to thank Patricia, Tiffany, Peggy, Patrice, Kalimba, Aaliyah, Fred, Jayden, and Marico for the continued support and love they offered towards the success he has achieved!
CREW BIOS
ASHLEY DAVIS
Music Director
TOMISHA EDWARDS
Choreographer
ASHLEY 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 the 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.
DEJA PATTON
Asst. Choreographer
TOMISHA EDWARDS is a native Memphian who has been an artist for over 20 years. She is a dancer, choreographer, actress, and performing arts educator. After graduating from Memphis Academy of Science and Engineering in 2011, she attended Bates College in Lewiston, Maine, where she majored in dance. Following graduation in 2015, she worked with various companies, such as Out Loud Artistry, Hattiloo Theatre, and New Ballet Ensemble and School. She has studied and taught numerous dance styles, such as ballet, Modern, Jazz, liturgical, lyrical, and West African, to name a few. She believes that the arts are the window into humanity’s soul through which we can see humanity’s past, present, and numerous possible futures.
DEJA PATTON is so thankful to be a part of this production! She recently made her theatrical debut in “A Motown Christmas” as Gladys Knight & is excited to continue her journey as the Dance Captain for Madagascar Jr. She especially would like to thank God for ordering her steps to fulfill His purpose in her life!
KRISTI STEELE Stage Manager
RISTISTEELEhappilyreturnstothecrewofHattiloo!This ckson,TNnativehasperformedthroughoutNashvilleand emphis.AtHattiloo,shehasperformedinPurlieVictorious, e Wiz, Crowns, The Color Purple, and Macbeth, to name a w.ShealsoservedasdirectorofHomeandWho'sAfraidof rginiaWoolf?Otheractingcreditsinclude:Crumbsfromthe ble of Joy (Circuit Playhouse-Ostrander Award-Best Ensemble Acting), Lysistrata & the Death of Cupid (McCoy Theatre), Romeo & Juliet (Memphis Symphony OrchestraGPAC&CannonCenter),TenLittleIndians(TPAC).Underthe tutelage of Tony Horne, she served as assistant director of The Mountaintop (Circuit Playhouse). Outside of theatre, Kristi works as a speech pathologist with preschool-age children,andsheistheproudmotherofonedaughter.
LAUREN THOMAS
Lighting Designer
LAURENTHOMAS
isaLightingDesignerandStageManager, andissoexcitedtobebacktodesignanothershowhereat Hattiloo!ShehasrecentlycompletedherB.SinTheatrewith a minor in Spanish at MTSU. Her 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 (LightingDesign),LionKingJr(LightingDesign),andCoconut Cake(LightingDesignerandStageManager).Shewouldlike to thank her friends, family, and fiancée, Toriya, for their support!Theyhopeyouenjoytheshow!Lftdesigns.com
CYD TRICE
Sound & Projection Designer
CYDTRICEhasbeenworkingintheatreproductionsforover ty years. Since she first began her career, she has taken various roles from director, designer, and actor to prop ster, videographer, and stage manager. During her dergraduate studies at MIT, Cydnie was a part of Uncle nya,LaCasadeBernaldaAlba,andtheGilbert&Sullivan yers’ musical Trial By Jury. Since returning to the MidSouth,Cydhasworkedonhundredsofshowsandfilmswith Theatre Memphis, The Harrell Theatre, Hattiloo Theatre, Cazateatro, Germantown Community Theatre, New Moon Theatre, Stage 88 Productions, Playhouse on the Square, andOperaMemphis.
JARROD WALKER Set 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.
BRONZJUAN WORTHY Direcor
BRONZJUAN WORTHY is a native Memphian, an educator, and a mother of three wonderful children. She has been blessed to be casted in several plays such as: Maureen Peal n the Ostrander Award-winning The Bluest Eye, M’Lynn Eatenton in Steel Magnolias, 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, and Mitch Mahoney in Putnam County Spelling Bee, and Carmen Jones ensemble. She has served as the stage manager for Blues in the Night, Lion King Jr., and Black Odyssey. She has directed many productions for her school’s Drama Exploratory, Hattiloo Theatre’s Camp Awareness, and Hattiloo Theatre in the Library. She is so proud and honored to have had the opportunity to direct this talent cast of young people! ‘Bronz’ is thankful for the love and support from her friends and family and praises God for this wonderful opportunity.
KIM WICKS Fight Choreographer
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.
We don’t make the art, but with your contributions, we make art more
This year, we invested $3.4 million in the arts community, including grants to 90 organizations and artists. Since our inception, we have distributed over $100 million to support the operations, programs, and people that make art in and around Memphis. Learn more about our grantees, programs, and opportunities to contribute to ARTSmemphis
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 LeMoyneOwen 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 wellinformed 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) boasts a remarkable background, having played Judge Dunbar in NBC's Bluff City Law. Her theatrical journey features performances in Ain't Misbehavin' and a role as Assistant Director for Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill, both in Milan, Italy. Additionally, Patricia directed Hattiloo's Black Nativity in collaboration with the Memphis Symphony Orchestra. With a wealth of experience in performing, directing, and costuming at Hattiloo Theatre, her most recent projects include Directing and costuming A Motown Christmas and a supporting role on film, which has not yet been released.
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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