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 perspective 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. He examines the universal truths of love, loss, identity, and resilience through narratives that are raw, complex, and unapologetically human. Deon’s storytelling highlights the beauty in imperfection and the strength found in struggle, with a commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices 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, was named a semifinalist for the Bridges and Stages 10-Minute Play Festival, and was selected for the 2026 Friends with the Write Stuff Playwriting 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.