Deon Barksdale, Jr. is a Tampa, Florida native and a graduate of Florida A&M University, where he earned a B.A. in Theatre Performance. With a background in acting, directing, and theatre arts, he brings a multidimensional lens to his work as a playwright and director.

His writing explores stories rooted in the African diaspora while engaging themes that transcend race and culture. His work examines the universal truths of love, loss, identity, and resilience, drawing from narratives that are raw, complex, and unapologetically human. Deon’s storytelling highlights the beauty found in imperfection and the strength born from struggle, with a commitment to amplifying voices that are often unheard and illuminating the shared humanity that connects us all.

His short play Ibanujẹ was selected for the 2026 Fade to Black Reading Series. His play Chameleons premiered as part of the Of House and Home Short Play Festival and was named a semifinalist for the Bridges and Stages 10-Minute Play Festival.

Most recently, he assistant directed The SpongeBob Musical with New Tampa Players. His selected stage directing credits include the world premiere of The Preacherman, Blues for an Alabama Sky, and The Long Goodbye. He has also served as an assistant director on Camp Athena with Florida Studio Theatre. His film directing work includes Django: Uncracked.

Deon is a proud member of the Dramatists Guild.