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HATTILOO BOARD OF DIRECTORS
BOARD EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
& 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
CarolynBishop,Director,On-Campus Living,LeMoyne-OwenCollege
MichaelCampanaro,VicePresident, InformationTechnology,AutoZone
TabrinaDavis,VicePresident-Marketing, CommunicationsandWebStrategy, MethodistLeBonheur
EdithKellyGreen,Principal,KGRGroup
JocelynHenderson,AnAttorney
CardellOrrin,ExecutiveDirector, StandforChildren
AmySimpson,ChiefCommunications Leader,InternationalPaper
LindaSmith,CommunityVolunteer
MackWeaver,CFO,MemphisinMay
Ekundayo Bandele, Founder & CEO
Hatshepsut Bandele, Patron Services Rep
P.A. Bomani, House Manager
Zaria Crawford, Patron Services Rep
Nate Herrington, Marketing Coordinator
Patricia Smith, Production Manager
Rosanna Smith, Office Manager
Jarrod Walker, Theatre Manager
Najwa Watson, Engagement Coordinator
Felicia Wheeler, Patron Engagement
ABOUTHATTILOO
Hattiloo is a 501(c)3 mission non-profit organization Its mission is "to develop a Black theatre that is accessible to, relevant to, and reflective of a multicultural community " It produces shows that depict Black life and that transcend their entertainment value by giving audiences an authentic, cultural experience. Its program The Self-Identity Theatre Camp helps Black youth acquire tools to care for their emotional selves in inequitable and discriminatorysituations
As the largest Black theatre in the Mid-South andoneofafewfree-standingBlacktheatresin the country, Hattiloo is a hub for national Black theatre training and convening, and our youth programssharethisfocus.
EKUNDAYO
As a theatre producer and the founder of Hattiloo Theatre, I’ve always been drawn to stories that resonate with the Black experience. Growing up in Brooklyn, I was exposed to a vibrant arts scene, fostering a diverse musical taste that would later inform my artistic choices. From a young age, my aunt introduced me to the world of jazz, sneaking me into clubs to experience the raw energy and improvisational brilliance of bebop. This early sclsel exposure to diverse musical styles has shaped my understanding of the power of music to move and inspire.
I'm a notoriously picky theatregoer I'm often disappointed by the lack of originality and depth in mainstream theatre, particularly in the realm of musicals. American musical theatre, with its formulaic structure and often generic scores, rarely excites me. I'm more drawn to productions that challenge conventions, push boundaries, and offer a fresh perspective.
During my time at Morehouse College in Atlanta, a city more renowned for its film industry than its theatre scene, I eagerly sought out opportunities to experience live theatre. It was in this context that I attended a production of "The Boy Who Kissed the Sky," a play that chronicles the early life of Jimi Hendrix.
I remember sitting in that Atlanta theater, the stage bathed in a soft, purple glow. While the production was enjoyable, it felt like a missed opportunity. The play, originally conceived as a piece for young audiences, had the potential for a deeper, more mature exploration of Hendrix's life. My professor, a close friend and the spouse of an Alliance Theatre artistic director, shared my sentiment. We discussed the play's strengths and weaknesses, identifying moments that could be further developed to reveal the complexity of Hendrix's character and the power of his music.
This conversation sparked a flame within me. I was eager to dive deeper into Hendrix's story and bring it to life in a way that would truly honor his legacy. My enthusiasm was further fueled by my directing professor, who shared my perspective on the play's potential Her insights into character development, staging, and the power of music resonated with me deeply. I was so impressed by her knowledge and passion that I knew I wanted her to direct our production of "The Boy Who Kissed the Sky."
Hattiloo is the perfect venue to bring Hendrix's story to life. As Memphis' only Black theatre in a predominantly Black city, we are committed to producing works that reflect the Black experience and challenge societal norms. Hendrix’s journey, marked by rebellion, artistic innovation, and a relentless pursuit of authenticity, aligns perfectly with Hattiloo's mission. By showcasing the life of a Black musical genius, we hope to inspire a new generation of artists and audiences.
Through productions like "The Boy Who Kissed the Sky," Hattiloo aims to expand the narrative of Black artistry. While Hendrix is a prominent figure, there are countless other Black musicians who have made significant contributions to the world of music. By celebrating the lives and work of these artists, we can challenge stereotypes and broaden our understanding of Black culture.
I'm excited to share this production with you. I believe it will not only entertain but also inspire, challenging us to think critically about the power of art and the importance of individuality. As we delve into Hendrix's story, we'll witness the birth of a musical genius and explore the complexities of his personal journey. From his early days in Seattle to his meteoric rise to fame, we'll see the struggles, triumphs, and the raw talent that made him one of the greatest guitarists of all time. I can't wait to see how our production resonates with our audience and how it contributes to the legacy of this iconic artist.
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Experience the Magic Again with
Experience the Magic Again with
Experience the Magic Again with 'The Boy Who Kissed the Sky' Original Cast Recording! 'The Boy Who Kissed the Sky' Original Cast Recording! 'The Boy Who Kissed the Cast
Revisit the enchanting journey of 'The Boy Who Kissed the Sky,' and let the music, magic, and emotions come alive in your home.
Feel the electrifying performances and unforgettable melodies captured in our original cast recording.
The Boy Who Kissed the Sky - Opening
PRODUCED BY DIVINITY ROXX AND EUGENE H. RUSSELL IV
LYRICS BY: IDRIS GOODWIN, DIVINITY ROXX, AND EUGENE H. RUSSELL IV
MUSIC BY: DIVINITY ROXX & EUGENE H. RUSSELL IV
Original Cast: Deborah Bowman, Alexandria Joy, Aishé Keita, Cedric Lamar, Brandon L. Smith, Mike Spee, Adam Washington Seattle Children's Theater in partnership with Alliance Theatre, Atlanta
SYNOPSIS
Set in the heart of Seattle’s Central District to the rhythms that shaped a generation, THE BOY WHO KISSED THE SKY, is inspired by the early life and influences of Seattle native and musical icon Jimi Hendrix. The early era of rock ‘n roll music sets the stage as a young Black boy conjures his creativity as a budding guitarist. Guided by the spirit of music itself, the boy learns to find harmony inside the challenging noises of his life. Told with vibrant music and daring imagination, this play inspires us to dream big when it matters most.
MEETTHEPLAYWRIGHT
IdrisGoodwin
Award-winning storyteller Idris Goodwin is a versatile culture bearer acclaimed as a playwright (authoring over 60 plays, including And In This Corner Cassius Clay and Free Play), breakbeat poet, content creator, and arts champion. Currently Artistic Director of Seattle Children’s Theater, his previous leadership roles include The Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College and StageOne Family Theatre. Goodwin also serves on national theater boards and has created content for various media outlets. His debut picture book, Your House is Not Just A House, was released in 2024.
CAST BIOS
CAROL HANS
Person w/Clip Board 2
ROMAN KYLE
Mel
DEJA PATTON
Donna
CAROL HANS started singing and dancing onstage at the age of 4 and started acting in High School In college, Carol continued to act and sing, performing in musicals as well as operas. Carol earned a Bachelor of Music (Vocal Education) and became an Elementary Orff Music teacher. She has worked in the Memphis area public schools for 26 years. Carol is excited to be back onstage performing for audiences.
ROMAN KYLE graduated from the University of Memphis with a B.F.A in Theatre & Dance, trained in contemporary and jazz dance. Credits include performing in A Midsummer Night's Dream (Demetrius), other productions include Romeo & Juliet (Romeo), The Flick (Avery), Sarafina: The Musical (Crocodile), The Little Prince (Aviator), To Kill A Mockingbird (Tom Robinson), and All The Way (Stokley Carmichael), The MouseTrap (Giles Ralston).
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 be gracing the stage at Hattiloo Theatre once again! She especially would like to thank God for ordering her steps to fulfill His purpose in her life!
KAILEB “BRYCE” SEAY
The Boy
KAILEB “BRYCE” SEAY is a 17-year-old aspiring actor from Memphis. A senior at Overton High School’s C.A.P.A. program (GPA: 4.357), he excels in dance and vocal music, earning 25th chair as a Tenor I in the All-West Tennessee Honors Choir. Bryce has starred in The Wiz, Twelfth Night, and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. He is an active member of Greater New Liberty Church under Dr. Darryl Shack, Sr., participating in the youth department. In his free time, he enjoys being with family and friends.
Person w/Clip Board 1
JOHN SMILEY is a professional actor, director, and acting teacher holding degrees from SUNY Oswego (BA) and The University of Texas at Austin (MFA). Currently Interim Head of Performance/Acting and Visiting Assistant Professor at the University of Memphis, he previously led acting programs at Christian Brothers High School and taught at other local colleges. Trained in Stanislavski and Meisner techniques with expertise in psychophysical methods, physical theatre, and movement, Smiley is a Certified Teacher of the Michael Chekhov Acting Technique and proficient in various other techniques. His 25+ year performance career includes international, national, regional, and Off-Broadway credits. He operates Michael Chekhov Memphis, is a former member of Actors' Equity, and is active in national acting and fight director organizations Visit johnsmileyactor com for more information.
ZURICK M. THOMAS
J Sonic
Mrs. Newton
ZURICK M. THOMAS, hailing from Memphis, Tennessee, favorably has over 20 years of professional experience as a dancer, choreographer, model, actor, and singer. Zurick was recently seen in "Carmen Jones" with Hattiloo Theatre, “Your Arms Are Too Short to Box With God”, and "Catch Me if You Can" with POTS. Other highlights include roles in The Hattiloo Theatre's "The Color Purple" and "Take the Soul Train to Christmas." Outside of the spotlight, Zurick dedicates time to empowering and mentoring sixth-grade students as a Special Education teacher. To God (Yahweh) be ALL the glory, honor, and praise.
RHONDA WOODFORK JOHNSON is an actress and singer whose passion has afforded her many blessed opportunities locally, internationally, on stage, in film, and on television Rhonda has been part of the cast in productions at Hattiloo Theatre such as If Scrooge Was A Brother, Once On This Island, Akeylah And The Bee, Simply Simone, Jelly's Last Jam, and most recently, Carmen Jones. Rhonda is also a member of the Playback Memphis Improv Ensemble. "All of my life's opportunities to exert my gifts are God's blessings for my sanity in a crazy world," says Rhonda, who is grateful for the opportunity to be part of another Hattiloo Theatre production.
RHONDA WOODFORK
(2025-2026)
CREW BIOS
ARIEL LEIRA
Assistant Stage Manager
NADIRAH T. HARPER
Lighting Designer
Ariel Leira would like to give all the glory, honor, and praise to her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, for the opportunity of Assistant Stage Manager! She is thrilled to learn about the different aspects of theatre by working behind the scenes! Ariel would like to thank God, her mother, Ms.Cyd, and Hattiloo Theatre!
NADIRAH T. HARPER graduated from Southeast Missouri State University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theater Technology & Design. Though recently she's been on the national tour of Jason's Lyric as their Deck Stage Manager, she has designed the lights for a variety of theatrical performances. This will be her 4th production at Hattilo,o and she is thrilled to have a hand in telling this story. Some of her other designs include: New York State of Mind, Off the Charts, Blues in the Night, Urinetown, and more You can see more of her work at nadirahtharper.com.
CYDNIE TRICE
Sound/Video Designer
IE TRICE has been working in theatre productions for over years. Since she first began her career, she has taken on s roles from director, designer, and actor to prop master, rapher, and stage manager. During her Undergrad at MIT, was a part of Uncle Vanya, La Casa de Bernalda Alba, and bert & Sullivan Player’s musical Trial By Jury. Since returning Mid-South, Cyd has worked on hundreds of shows and films Theatre Memphis, The Harrell Theatre, Hattiloo Theatre, Cazateatro, 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 premiere of The Boy Who Kissed the Sky.
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
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
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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
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Rosanna Smith
Sekeeta Thomas
Sharon Taylor
Todd and Patricia Walker
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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
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Jane & Charles Lewis
Jarrod Walker
Jason Noel & Dimika Cavalier
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Jerry & Deborah Wigginson
Jessica Reese
Jewish Foundation of Memphis
Kerri Wilburn
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LaTeshia Ellerson
Meka Egwuekwe
Melundee Scott
Mike Jackson
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Nobuko Igarashi
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Raumesh Akbari
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Roy Shirkey
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Audrey Davis
Augustene Weston
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Bridgit Harper
Candace Obadina
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DeAngella Dennis
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Deborah Currie
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Vanecia Belser Kimbrow, Esq
Vanessa Conner
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Will Hopkins
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Yvon Foster
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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
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Laura Lemon
Lillian & Bernice Family Foundation Fund
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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
