Madagascar Jr. Digital Playbill

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HATTILOO BOARD OF DIRECTORS & STAFF BOARD EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 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 President Marketing, 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

STAFF

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 Founder/CEO

MADAGASCAR: A MUSICAL ADVENTURE 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

Directed by BRONZJUAN WORTHY ASHLEY DAVIS Music Director

KARLON DOCKERY Sound/Audio Engineer

MELODY DOUGLAS Costume Designer

TOMISHA EDWARDS Choreographer

DEJA PATTON Asst. Choreographer

ALEXI SEIVER Asst. Dance Captain

ALYSSA SEIVER Dance Captain

KRISTI STEELE Stage Manager

LAUREN THOMAS Lighting Designer

CYD TRICE Sound & Projection Designer

JARROD WALKER Set Designer

KIM WICKS Fight Choreographer

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

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

ACT I Scene I: Central Park Zoo Zoosters, Penguins, Zookeepers, NY Zoo Tourist Ensemble

It's Showtime Wild And Free

Marty, Dream Marty, Zookeepers, NY Zoo Tourist Ensemble

Best Friends

Alex, Marty, Mason

Scene II: New York City St. Zoosters, Penguins, Police Officers, Old Relax, Be Cool, Chill Out Lady, Subway Announcer, Animal Control, NY Subway Ensemble

Grand Central

Zoosters, Penguins Scene III: The Boat to Africa Skipper, Kowalski, Rico, Private

Penguins' Sea Shanty

ACT II Scene IV: The Beach of Madagascar

Welcome to Me

King Julien, Lemurs

I Like To Move It

King Julien, Lemurs, Zoosters Alex, Lead Servers, Steak

Steak

Scene V: The Boat to Antarctica Skipper, Kowalski, Rico, Private Penguins' Sea Shanty (Reprise)

Living In Paradise

Scene VI: Beautiful Watering Hole Zoosters, Lemurs, Ensemble

Foosa Hungry

Scene VII: Scary Foosa Territory

Best Friends (Reprise) The King Of Madagascar

Foosa Marty, Alex

Zoosters, Foosa, Lemurs

Together Forever

Full Company

I Like to Move It (Reprise)

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.

CAST

MARLEY CLARK Skipper

MICKHEL COOK King Julien/Pedestrian

COHEN COOPER Alex

DUCHESS CATHEY Foosa/Ensemble

GINGER CHANDLER Lew/Ensemble

WILLIAM DWYER Kowalski

BELLA GANT Mason/Foosa Leader

CHRISTIAN GRAY Private

KENSINGTON IVORY Lars/Ensemble

JASPER JAMES Foosa/Ensemble

AMAH’EL LILAVOIS Lee/Ensemble

JOY MITCHELL Rico

JADE S. MITCHELL Ensemble

ETHAN MONROE PERSON Mort/Ensemble

AMIRA SADE’ Foosa/Ensemble

ALYSSA SEVIER Gloria

ALEXI SEVIER Maurice/Ensemble

BROOKE TOLBERT Marty

CHARLI STEELE Foosa/Ensemble

AMARI WINTERS Melman

CAST BIOS

MARLEY CLARK Skipper

MICKHEL COOK King Julien/ Pedestrian

COHEN COOPER Alex

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 and film.

MICKHEL COOK is extremely proud to be apart of the cast of Madagascar. Mickhel lives in Memphis, Tennessee and attends White Station High School. He has recently become more involved with Hattiloo, having worked lights for their productions 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 industry. With passion, dedication, and natural talent, Cohen shines in every performance, captivating audiences and leaving 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

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.

GINGER CHANDLER is thrilled to make her stage debut in Madagascar! An 11-year-old middle school student from Horn Lake, MS, she has always loved singing, dancing, and performing for friends and family. When she isn’t on stage, GINGER CHANDLER Ginger is an avid reader and researcher, enjoys baking, is fond of all things animals, and can be found watching the Lew/Ensemble latest K-Dramas! Ginger is excited to share her first theater experience with this amazing cast and crew and thanks her family for their love, encouragement, and support of her journey into the performing arts!

WILLIAM DWYER Kowalski

BELLA GANT Mason/ Foosa Leader

WILLIAM DWYER is excited to appear in Madagascar! His past lead and supporting roles include; (Newsies), (Annie Jr.), (Wonka Jr.), (Finding Nemo Jr.), (Seussical Jr.), and several other productions, voiced over on The Night Before Christmas, and a podcast (Little Kids, Big Hearts), and in a commercial for Entrepreneur Kids App. William loves acting and singing.

BELLA GANT is a rising young performer with experience in Finding Nemo Jr. (Squirt/Ensemble), A Christmas Cabaret (Hattiloo Theatre), and Ultimate Superstar (Simone). She has trained in voice, dance, tumbling, and gymnastics, and loves singing, performing, and creating videos. Bella is excited to continue growing in the performing arts!

CHRISTIAN GRAY Private

CHRISTIAN GRAY is an 8-year-old aspiring actor making his debut at Hattiloo Theatre. With a big imagination and cheerful personality, he's excited to bring his energy and creativity to the stage. Always eager to learn, Christian is excited 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 KENSINGTON IVORY Playhouse on the Square Summer Camp. She also serves on Lars/Ensemble the Honor Council.

JASPER JAMES Foosa/Ensemble

AMAH’EL LILAVOIS Lee/Ensemble

JOY MITCHELL Rico

JASPER JAMES is very excited to be a part of Madagascar Jr. at Hattiloo Theatre. He recently worked with Hattiloo on Lion King Jr. as Mufasa, Carmen Jones as Kid B and Highschooler, Mufaro's Beautiful Daughters as Mufaro, and on 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, From a Chaotic Town to Finding my Worth in it.

AMAH’EL LILAVOIS is a joyful 10-year-old who loves painting, reading, cooking, building, and acting! She’s thrilled to be in the Madagascar ensemble and dreams of acting in Avatar one day—right alongside James Cameron. Big thanks to her family and friends for all their love and support JOY MITCHELL is a vibrant young singer, actress, and voiceover artist. She has performed at the Cannon Center and sung the national anthem at major events, including the Kiwanis District Convention and AutoZone National Sales Meeting. An honors and CLUE student with perfect attendance, 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 Ensemble

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 ETHAN MONROE PERSON Missing Pieces (Hattiloo Theatre). Ethan enjoys playing Mort/Ensemble soccer, singing for the Holy Rosary Catholic School Musical Choir, and plans to be a professional animator and soccer athlete.

AMIRA SADE´ Foosa/Ensemble

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 Dance Team and an honor roll student.

Amira recently appeared in her first play, Cinderella Jr. at Ruffin Theatre, and will soon be seen in Annie Jr. (July/Orphan) and Frozen Jr. (Bulda/Elsa Understudy). When she’s not performing, she enjoys drawing and writing music.

ALYSSA SEVIER Gloria/ Dance Captain

ALEXI SEVIER Maurice/Ensemble

Asst. Dance Captain

CHARLI STEELE Foosa/Ensemble

ALYSSA SEVIER is a triple threat who has been captivating audiences with her remarkable talents in theater. She has been seen on the NSPA stage as Olaf in Frozen Jr., Patrick in SpongeBob Jr. at Warehouse Theater, and Sarafina in The Lion King Jr. at Hattiloo Theatre. Alyssa thanks her family and friends for supporting her in everything and is excited for this production (cast and crew).

ALEXI LOGAN SEVIER is a budding star who has a passion for the arts. Whether singing, dancing, or acting, she is sure to bring joy and energy to the stage. She has been seen on the Hattiloo stage as Young Nala in The Lion King Jr. Alexi Logan is thrilled to be a part of this production and is having a blast! Thank you to everyone involved!

CHARLI STEELE makes her second debut at Hattiloo! She previously had ensemble roles in The Lion King, Jr. in fall 2024. Charli has received ballet training in the past with Dazzle BBC, LLC, and currently receives ballet, modern, and tap training with Collage Dance Collective. Charli is a member of the Kingdom Kids Choir and Dance Ministry at First Baptist 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 Roblox games.

BROOKE TOLBERT Marty

AMARI WINTERS Melman

BROOKE 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 her boundless potential.

AMIRA WINTERS is making their Hattiloo Theatre debut in Madagascar Jr. as Melman! Amari has performed for Cordova High School in a production of Fame and sang for the 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!

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CREW BIOS

ASHLEY DAVIS Music Director

TOMISHA EDWARDS Choreographer

DEJA PATTON Asst. 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.

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 Assistant Choreographer 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

LAUREN THOMAS Lighting Designer

CYD TRICE Sound & Projection Designer

KRISTI STEELE happily returns to the crew of Hattiloo! This Jackson, TN native has performed throughout Nashville and Memphis. At Hattiloo, she has performed in Purlie Victorious, The Wiz, Crowns, The Color Purple, and Macbeth, to name a few. She also served as director of Home and Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? Other acting credits include: Crumbs from the Table of Joy (Circuit Playhouse-Ostrander Award-Best Ensemble Acting), Lysistrata & the Death of Cupid (McCoy Theatre), Romeo & Juliet (Memphis Symphony OrchestraGPAC & Cannon Center), Ten Little Indians (TPAC). Under the 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, and she is the proud mother of one daughter.

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. 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 (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 CYD TRICE has been working in theatre productions for over 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 Bernalda Alba, and the Gilbert & Sullivan Players’ musical Trial By Jury. Since returning to the MidSouth, Cyd has worked on hundreds of shows and films with Theatre Memphis, The Harrell Theatre, Hattiloo Theatre, Cazateatro, Germantown Community Theatre, New Moon Theatre, Stage 88 Productions, Playhouse on the Square, and Opera Memphis.

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 5th scenic design at Hattiloo, and he dedicates this work to all of his songbirds watching him from above.

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 in the Ostrander Award-winning The Bluest Eye, M’Lynn Eatenton in Steel Magnolias, Ostrander Award winning In the BRONZJUAN WORTHY Heights as Camila Rosario, and Lady in Red in For Colored Direcor 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.

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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.

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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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