2010 - 2000 Theatrical Production History
2010 - 2000 Theatrical Production History
Embedded Files
Playwright/Screenwriter Richard Wesley Interview
Richard Wesley, a 1967 graduate of the Drama Department as it was called then, is an iconic writer crossing over seamlessly between stage and screen. Former recipient of a Drama Desk Award for Outstanding New Playwright, Mr. Wesley is well known for his plays The Mighty Gents, Sirens and The Talented Tenth and classic movies like Uptown Saturday Night and Let's Do It Again.
In this brief clip I share with Richard comments department chair, Owen Dodson wrote about Richard in the 1963 department annual report. This is the first time Richard will hear what Mr. Dodson wrote. Richard remains a very proud Howard Player!
Richard also shares the moment he received his first playwriting award as a young Howard student. Enjoy!
Scroll down to review the 2010 - 2000 repository of the Howard Players theatrical production
2009/2010 - Joe W. Selmon, Chair, Department of Theatre Arts
2009/2010 - Joe W. Selmon, Chair, Department of Theatre Arts
Dean: Dr. James Donaldson, College of Arts & Sciences
Associate Dean: Dr. Tritobia Benjamin, Division of Fine Arts
Major: B.F.A. Theatre Arts
Areas of Concentration: Acting, Dance, Musical Theatre, Theatre Administration, Theatre Technology
Minor Areas of Concentration: Dance, Playwriting, Theatre Arts, Theatre Administration, Theatre Technology
Staff: Greg Jackson, Janet L. Johnson, Luqman Salim, T. W. Starnes, Michael Stepowany
Faculty:
Tenured - Kim James Bey, George Epting, Al Freeman Jr, Denise J. Hart, Mark Jolin
Tenure Track - Denise J. Hart, Dr. Calvin McClinton, Dr. Nubia Salaam, Darius Smith
Non Tenured - Tamera Izlar, Tim James, Nicole Leonard, Reggie Ray, Deirdre Starnes, Denise Saunders-Thompson
Howard Players President: Nijeul Porter
Oral History Interview by Denise J. Hart with Dr. Carole W. Singleton (July 17, 2016) Former faculty 1976-2005, Department Chair 1985-1992
"You can go home again in Black Theatre." ~ Carole Singleton
I arrived in the Department of Drama in 1976. In the early part of my career there weren't that many Black playwrights with their work out there. There was friction between the Department of Drama and the Howard Players even in 1976. Each seemed to be a separate entity and it continued for quite a while including when Geoffrey (Newman) took Raisin to Switzerland there was not a clear cut division between the Department and the Howard Players.
There was an issue of identity. My belief is the Howard Players is a student run organization that should remain subordinate to the department.
A scintillating performance was done (by the Howard Players) in the the late 70's. It caused an uproar in the faculty. Afterwards, the Howard Players became dormant or on hiatus from the early 1980's through 1994. Beyond the Cook and Butcher years and into the 1990's the history as two separate producing entities (Department of Drama and the Howard Players) is unclear. When I became department chair I started making noise about producing more Black playwrights in the department. The Howard Players has been an adjunct organization under the tutelage of this Department. They were almost like co-producers. The Howard Players mission should be to perpetuate the theatre the best way they can within the framework and philosophy of the Department.
Howard Players celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Department of Theatre Arts fall 2009. Howard Players president Nijeul Porter. Photo credit unknown
Fall Semester 2009 Season Theme: 60 Years of Excellence
ZOOMAN AND THE SIGN written by Charles Fuller
Directed by Denise J. Hart
Date: Oct. 9-15, 2009
Produced in Environmental Theatre Space
Cast: Jaleesa Capri, Kahlil Daniels, Josh Nelson, Tiffany Johnson, Matthew Faroul, Quentin Warren, Brandyn Ashley, Eric R. Williams, Adarius Smith
Design/Creative Team: Michael Stepowany, Scenic Designer. George H. Epting, Sound Designer/Lighting Designer. G.V. Love, Properties Designer. Reggie Ray, Costume Designer. Courtney Wood, Costume Shop Manager
Stage Management: Brooke Brown, Stage Manager. Areeyal Goodwin, Assistant Stage Manager
ANNA IN THE TROPICS by Nilo Cruz
Directed by Tamera Izlar
Date: Nov. 11-15, 2009
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast/Design & Management teams are missing. In search of a program
U.G.L.Y. a New Musical (a Staged reading)
Book, Music & Lyrics by Professor Darius Smith
Date: Nov. 15, 2009
Produced at Atlas Performing Arts Center
The protagonist of UGLY is a female identifying middle schooler that defies gender norms by joining and excelling on the wrestling team. Her best friend grapples throughout the narrative with his same gender attraction for another classmate.
The play thematically covers the isolation/ othering/ and bias’ that challenge Black children discovering self while coming of age in the narrow definitions of Southern Black communities.
Cast/Design & Management teams are missing. In search of a program
Zooman and the Sign rehearsal photos credit Denise J. Hart
Director Walter Dallas visits rehearsal for Zooman and the Sign Photo credit Denise J. Hart
Zooman and the Sign rehearsal photos credit Denise J. Hart
Director's' Notes - Zooman and the Sign
In 1965, a gang member comes into a neighborhood in West Philadelphia intent upon shooting a rival gang member and as the shots ring out, a little girl sitting on her front steps is shot and killed. This incident served as the impetus for Pulitzer Prize winning Playwright Charles Fuller to begin writing Zooman & the Sign. Fuller did not complete the play until 1979, the time period in which the play is set. Long before gansta rap’s inciting lyrics begin to influence the consciousness of many of our youth; Fuller is noted for saying that after King’s death in 1968 there were Zooman’s everywhere; in every urban city all over America. Zooman was running rampant.
Fast forward to 2008, when one of my 16-year-old twin nephews is arrested for allegedly shooting into a crowd at an October-fest in my hometown of Omaha Nebraska. Thankfully, no one was hurt. The police told my brother that both of my nephews were known gang members.
My entire family was in shock. We of middle class upbringing, college educated people with good jobs... how could this be happening? We were in denial until I called a family meeting and asked my nephews to tell us the truth. Eventually they affirmed what the police had said. They said that college wasn’t for them; that they wanted the glamorous life of the gangster. I remember watching them sitting across from me and thinking that if we didn’t do something, they could become the Zooman of 2008 and onward.
My nephews along with all of the other black males who feel that their only choice is to become a predator amongst their own are the impetus for my decision to tell this story. A friend of mine said to me that the storyline of Zooman is so intense and its rather disturbing. I responded that the play is only as intense and disturbing as our real lives can be. Let’s not look away from that truth.
Despite a multitude of advancements in our country, on the play’s 30 year anniversary, unfortunately the consciousness of Zooman continues to permeate our communities and society at large. With the advent of the internet this consciousness has only become more visible as seen with the recent YouTube video showing the beating death of Derrion Albert in Chicago.
Similar to the community in Zooman the onlookers of Derrion’s death initially would not come forward to identify the perpetrators. They said they feared retaliation. As well, the perpetuation of the ‘No Snitch’ campaign has created even more confusion in the hearts and minds of those who would be inclined to do the right thing (even anonymously), but don’t want to seem un-cool.
The solutions to eradicate the consciousness that creates a Zooman and a morally conflicted community are complex. The play does offer a resolution, but not a solution. Yet, the play does provoke us to think and to feel and hopefully to confront the unspoken questions reverberating throughout: What would you do if this were to happen to you? What would you do if you or your loved ones become the Tates? What would you do if a Zooman is in your family or your community? What can/should/will you do?
Zooman and the Sign rehearsal photos credit Denise J. Hart
Spring Semester 2010 Season Theme: 60 Years of Excellence
SIRENS written by Richard Wesley. (Howard Players Student Production)
Directed by Victoria Joy Murray
Date: Jan 29-31, 2020
Produced in Environmental Theatre Space
Cast/Design & Management teams are missing. In search of a program
This play was also produced in the department in October 1992
11th annual memorial production BEVERLY GAIL BARNES KELCH April 22, 1937 - December 13, 1997 (Bingo Long Traveling All-Stars)
BINGO LONG TRAVELING ALL-STARS AND MOTOR KINGS written by Michael Bobbitt. Music and Lyrics by John Cornelius. (Musical)
Directed and choreographed by Padro Harris. Musical Director Darius Smith
Date: March 4-6, 10-13, 2010
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Djob Lyons, Brandyn A. Poole, Matthew Faroul, Eric Williams, Soneka Anderson, Jude Tibeau, Jobari Parker-Namdar, Adarius Smith, Tyree Young, Galen Williams, Omar Ingram, Jonathan Randle, Julius Williams, Danny Tippett, Branda Locke, Greg Twomey, Lauren Dupree, Jeffery Glenn, Aurie Ceylon, Jamee Ham, Courtney Gatson, Clinton Roane, Kahlil X. Daniel, Amanda Badze, Kristian Lauren, Oneka Kelley, Orisa Henderson-Amare
Design/Creative Team: Michael Stepowany, Scenic Designer/Technical Director. George H. Epting, Lighting Designer. Gary Drew, Sound Designer. Reggie Ray, Costume Designer. Charles Coward, Artistic Director. Nubia Kai, Dramaturg
Stage Management:, William Jackson, Production Stage Manager. Ashley Bruce, Nina Burnett, Assistant Stage Managers
SPRING DANCE CONCERT
Artistic Director Dr. Sherrill Berryman-Johnson
Performers/Choreographers: Missing. In search of a program
9/7/2010 Darius Smith, professor at Howard University, brought his "uncomfortable" musical, U.G.L.Y. to the Kennedy Center for the university's first performance in the Millennium Stage: Page to Stage series over the Labor Day weekend.
4. MELANCHOLY OF BARBARIANS written by Koffi Kwahule (Staged Reading)
Directed by Denise J. Hart. Translated by Chantal Bilodea
Produced by Playwrights in Process Visiting Playwrights Series in conjunction with the Department of Theatre Arts in partnership with the Lark Play Development Center
Date: Feb. 10, 2010
Produced in Environmental Theatre Space
Professor Hart produced the staged reading of Koffi Kwahule's play to help facilitate the translation of the play from French to English.
Cast: Kasaun Wilson, Shiree Adkins, Asha Edwards, Tyshae Price, Yewande Odetoyinbo, Candace Hale, Camille Thomas, Matt Holbert, Aigner Corbitt, Darius Vines, Matt Holbert, Joshua Gaddy
Design/Creative Team: Marita Phelps, Student Dramaturge. Leovinia Charles, Student Translator (French)
Stage Management: Brooke Brown, Production Stage Manager
Koffi Kwahule, Playwright
2008/2009 - Joe W. Selmon, Chair, Department of Theatre Arts
2008/2009 - Joe W. Selmon, Chair, Department of Theatre Arts
Dean: Dr. James Donaldson, College of Arts & Sciences
Associate Dean: Dr. Tritobia Benjamin, Division of Fine Arts
Major: B.F.A. Theatre Arts
Areas of Concentration: Acting, Dance, Musical Theatre, Theatre Administration, Theatre Technology
Minor Areas of Concentration: Dance, Playwriting, Theatre Arts, Theatre Administration, Theatre Technology
Staff: Janet L. Johnson, T. W. Starnes, Michael Stepowany
Faculty:
Tenured - Henriette Edmonds, Kim James Bey, Mark Jolin, George Epting, Al Freeman Jr, Dr. Sherrill Berryman-Johnson, Joe W. Selmon
Tenure Track - Denise J. Hart, Dr. Calvin McClinton, Dr. Nubia Salaam, Darius Smith
Non Tenured - Charles Coward, Tamera N. Izlar, Tim James, Princess Mhoon-Cooper, Dawn Naser, Reggie Ray, Denise Saunders-Thompson, Deirdre Starnes
Howard Players President: Nickolas A. Vaughan
Fall Semester 2008 (no season theme mentioned)
2. HAMLET written by William Shakespeare
Guest director Kenyatta Roger
Date: Nov. 13-15, 20-22, 2008
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast/Design & Management teams are missing. In search of a program
3. REPAIRING A NATION written by Nikkole Salter (Reading)
Directed by Tamera N. Izlar
Produced by Playwrights in Process Visiting Playwrights Series in conjunction with the Department of Theatre Arts
Date: Nov. 8, 2008
Produced in Environmental Theatre Space
Cast: Michael Shaw, Tiffany Johnson, Tyree Young, Cilista Johnson
Design/Creative Team: Denise J. Hart, Dramaturg. Marita Phelps, Student Dramaturge. Leovinia Charles, Student Translator (French)
Stage Management: Erika McCrary, Production Stage Manager
4. FINDING YOUR SONG: The Musicality of August Wilson
Produced by August Wilson Society in cooperation with professors Sais Kamalidiin, Sandra Shannon, Joe Selmon, Denise J. Hart & Kim Bey
Date: Nov. 13, 2008
Guest Director & Hostess - Lynda Gravatt
Cast: e'Marcus Harper, Kenneth Johnson, Tyree Young, Quentin Warren, Kim James Bey, Michelle Harper, Mark Puryear, Ashalyn Sims, Dr. Sais Kamaladiin
5. EASY LAWD: DEATH VISITS THE QUARTIER Compiled and written by Eleanor W. Traylor (Staged reading)
Directed by Joe Selmon
Date: Fall 2008
Cast/Design & Management teams are missing. In search of a program
The Blues Eye travels to Dominican Republic
THE BLUEST EYE written by Lydia Diamond
Directed by Tamera Izlar
Produced in Environmental Theatre Space
Produced in Dominican Republic March 2009
Cast/Design & Management teams are missing. In search of a program
Spring Semester 2009 (no season theme mentioned)
Howard Players Newsletter November 2008. Nickolas A. Vaughan, President
U.G.L.Y. (a new Musical) (Howard Players Student Production)
Book, music & lyrics by Darius Smith
Date: Jan. 28-30, 2009
Produced in Environmental Theatre Space
The protagonist of UGLY is a female identifying middle schooler that defies gender norms by joining and excelling on the wrestling team. Her best friend grapples throughout the narrative with his same gender attraction for another classmate.
The play thematically covers the isolation/ othering/ and bias’ that challenge Black children discovering self while coming of age in the narrow definitions of Southern Black communities.
10th annual memorial production BEVERLY GAIL BARNES KELCH April 22, 1937 - December 13, 1997 (Company)
COMPANY (Musical)
Music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim. Book by George Furth.
Directed by Mark Jolin. Choreographed by Toni Lombre. Musical Director Darius Smith
Date: March 5-7, 11-14, 2009
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Jobari Parker-Namdar, Evette Marie White, Eric Wiliams, Lydia John, Randall Holloway, Jillian Green, Kahlil Daniel, Lauren DuPree, Nickolas Vaughan, Teisha Duncan, Jude Tibeau, Michael James Shaw, Aurie Satterthwaite, Ashley Featherson, Kristian Lauren, Cilista Johnson, Soneka Anderson, Ashley Jeudy, India Gray, Alana Katrice
Design/Creative Team: Michael Stepowany, Scenic Designer/Technical Director. George H. Epting, Lighting Designer. Gary Drew, Sound Designer. Reggie Ray, Costume Designer. Charles Coward, Artistic Director
Stage Management, Lynneisha Ray, Stage Manager. Jonathan White & Aliya Bashiruddin-Cart, Assistant Stage Managers
THE BLUEST EYE written by Lydia Diamond
Directed by Tamera Izlar
Date: March 2009
Produced in Dominican Republic
Cast/Design & Management teams are missing. In search of a program
YES WE CAN (Dance Concert)
Date: April 17-18, 2009
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Performers/Choreographers: Missing. In search of a program
2007/2008 - Joe W. Selmon, Chair, Department of Theatre Arts
2007/2008 - Joe W. Selmon, Chair, Department of Theatre Arts
Dean: Dr. James Donaldson, College of Arts & Sciences
Associate Dean: Dr. Tritobia Benjamin, Division of Fine Arts
Major: B.F.A. Theatre Arts
Areas of Concentration: Acting, Dance, Musical Theatre, Theatre Administration, Theatre Technology
Minor Areas of Concentration: Dance, Playwriting, Theatre Arts, Theatre Administration, Theatre Technology
Staff: Janet L. Johnson, Luqman Salim, T. W. Starnes, Michael Stepowany
Faculty:
Tenured - Henriette Edmonds, Kim James Bey, Mark Jolin, George Epting, Al Freeman Jr, Sherrill Berryman-Johnson, Joe W. Selmon, Dr. Carole W. Singleton
Tenure Track - Denise J. Hart, Darius Smith
Non Tenured - Charles Coward, Tamera Izlar, Reggie Ray, Eric Ruffin, Nubia Salaam
Howard Players President: Jalila Bowie
Fall Semester 2007 (no season theme mentioned)
Participated in the American Theatre Festival with Day of Absence. The last time Howard participated in the festival was 1986.
DAY OF ABSENCE written by Douglas Turner Ward
Directed by Denise J. Hart.
Date: Oct. 3-5, 10-13, 2007
Produced in Environmental Theatre Space
Dramaturgy: Denise J. Hart, Lecture Series: The Historical and Social Contextualization of Day of Absence
Playwright Douglas Turner Ward spoke at the symposium
CAst, Design & Management teams are missing. In search of a program
Cast: Eric Williams, Jabari, Dhakeria Cunningham, Ashley Blaine Featherson, Jude, Anthony McDonald
Design/Creative Team: Michael C. Stepowany, Scenic/Technical Director. George H. Epting, Lighting/Sound Designer Reggie Ray, Costume Designer
7th annual Anne Cooke Reid Memorial Production (Gum)
GUM written by Karen Hartman
Directed by Kim Bey
Date: Nov. 7-10, 2007
Produced in Environmental Theatre Space
Cast: Lace Williams, Zurin Villanueva, Amber Iman Moorer, Kyle A. Jones, William Little III
Design/Creative Team: Michael C. Stepowany, Scenic/Technical Director. George H. Epting, Lighting/Sound Designer Reggie Ray, Costume Designer. Chaela Phillips, Make-up Designer
Stage Management: Alorie Clark, Production Stage Manager. Steven J. Brown & Zarinah T. Washington, Assistant Stage Managers
OEDIPUS REX written by Sophocles (Howard Players Student Production)
Date: Dec 1-3, 2007
Produced in Environmental Theatre Space
Cast/Design & Management teams are missing. In search of a program
Director's Notes - Day of Absence
A Dialogical Discourse on
White Privilege and Protection of White Identity
Written in 1965, Douglas Turner Ward’s racial satire is a provocative critique on white privilege (conceived as a reverse minstrel show). Depicting an imaginary Southern town where all the black people have suddenly disappeared, the play reflects a time when the oppression of black people was politically mandated.
As I undertook the task of preparing to direct the play, I was queried by both colleagues and students regarding the play’s “datedness”. Admittedly, I was perplexed by these comments since I felt that the play’s themes were quite current. However, I researched previous reviews of the play and found that primarily reviewers commented on the theme of racially distinguished labor practices. Several of the reviewers also felt the play was dated (after all, blacks are no longer relegated to those jobs…another group is).
As I reflected on the comments and read the reviews I saw two positions emerge. First, a position stemming from race and social privilege, a kind of distancing oneself from “that kind of treatment”, and second, a reluctance to acknowledge the larger themes in the play, those of white privilege and protection of white identity.
Themes which were either lost on my colleagues, students, and reviewers or possibly these themes were too contentious to be acknowledged.
Thus, part of my task as director became centered on making those themes relevant for a 2007 audience. However, as the case of the Jena Six heightened the countries social consciousness, the reality of white privilege and the injustice which is its frequent bed mate became magnified ten-fold.
On the one hand, the details surrounding the Jena Six caused the play’s “un-datedness” to become apparent. On the other hand, the play didn’t really need the Jena Six to become relevant; yet, judging from the queries I received and the response of some reviewers, there are those who needed the Jena Six to make them see with “eyes wide open” that as we embark upon the fortieth anniversary of the civil rights movement, this country remains mired in racial stratification and the struggle, on the part of some, to retain white privilege.
To borrow a line from the Mayor in the play – “You see, the South has always been glued together by the uninterrupted presence of its darkies.”
No, blacks are no longer relegated to “servile” jobs, however with situations like the Jena Six coming to the social forefront, it would seem that the legacy of oppression in this country possesses a determination to transcend 1965 and rear its ugly head well into the future if we don’t tackle it head on. - Directed by Denise J. Hart
Day of Absence production photos. Photo credit Jarvis Grant
Spring Semester 2008 (no season theme mentioned)
Day of Absence travels to Pittsburgh for the American College Theatre Festival
DAY OF ABSENCE written by Douglas Turner Ward
Directed by Denise J. Hart.
Date: January 2008 performed at Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival at Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh PA
Design & Management teams incomplete. In search of a program
Cast: Eric Williams, Jabari, Dhakeria Cunningham, Ashley Blaine Featherson, Jude, Anthony McDonald
Design/Creative Team: Michael C. Stepowany, Scenic/Technical Director. George H. Epting, Lighting/Sound Designer Reggie Ray, Costume Designer. Charles Coward, Production Manager
9th annual memorial production BEVERLY GAIL BARNES KELCH April 22, 1937 - December 13, 1997 (Working)
WORKING written by Stephen Schwartz (Musical)
Directed and choreographed by Michael Bobbitt
Date: March 5-8, 12-15, 2008
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast/Design & Management teams are missing. In search of a program
3. UGLY GEENA (Musical)
Staged reading written by Darius Smith
Date: April 14, 2007
Produced in Environmental Theatre Space
"The protagonist of UGLY is a female identifying middle schooler that defies gender norms by joining and excelling on the wrestling team. Her best friend grapples throughout the narrative with his same gender attraction for another classmate.
The play thematically covers the isolation/ othering/ and bias’ that challenge Black children discovering self while coming of age in the narrow definitions of Southern Black communities." - professor Eric Ruffin (Oct. 2024)
Cast: Traci Allen, Ashlei Dabney, Teisha Duncan, Gregory Gardner, Jillian Green, Ayanna Hardy, Cilista Johnson, Amber Iman Moorer, Clinton Roane, Nickolas Vaughan, Darius Vines, Tiffany Webb, Eric Williams, Brittany N. Williams
Design/Creative Team: Michael C. Stepowany, Scenic/Technical Director. George H. Epting, Lighting/Sound Designer Reggie Ray, Costume Designer. Charles Coward, Production Manager. Sakeenah Kinard, Assistant Production Manager. Robin Harris, Properties Designer
Stage Management: Catherine Peoples, Production Stage Manager. Anthony McDonald, Assistant Stage Manager
4. CLEAR WATER SWEETNESS (Dance concert)
April 18-20, 2008. Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Performers/Choreographers: Missing. In search of a program
Photos credit Denise J. Hart
2006/2007 - Joe W. Selmon, Chair, Department of Theatre Arts
2006/2007 - Joe W. Selmon, Chair, Department of Theatre Arts
Information in these two sections is from the 2006/2007 annual report:
Dean: Dr. James Donaldson, College of Arts & Sciences
Associate Dean: Dr. Tritobia Benjamin, Division of Fine Arts
Major: B.F.A. Theatre Arts
Areas of Concentration: Acting, Dance, Musical Theatre, Theatre Administration, Theatre Technology
Minor Areas of Concentration: Dance, Playwriting, Theatre Arts, Theatre Administration, Theatre Technology
Staff: Greg Jackson, Janet L. Johnson, Luqman Salim, T. W. Starnes, Michael Stepowany
Faculty:
Tenured - Kelsey E. Collie, Henriette Edmonds, Kim James Bey, Mark Jolin, George Epting, Al Freeman Jr, Sherrill Berryman-Johnson, Mike Malone, Joe W. Selmon, Dr. Carole W. Singleton
Tenure Track - Denise J. Hart, Darius Smith
Non Tenured - Charles Coward, Tim James, Princess Mhoon-Cooper, Reggie Ray, Eric Ruffin
Howard Players President: ?
Fall Semester 2006 Season Theme: The Life I Sing About
THIS JOY written by Denise J. Hart (Play Development)
Directed by Yildiz Yilmaz
Date: Oct. 18-21, 2006
Produced in Environmental Theatre Space
Cast: Sasha Sloan, Lanette Proctor, Kyle Jones, Jordan Rose (youth actor), Evette Marie White
Design & Management teams are missing. In search of a program
2005 - staged reading, producer: Howard University
2006 This Joy – full production, producer: Howard University
2007 Semi-finalist (top 5%) Eugene O’Neill National Playwright’s Conference
2007 Semi-finalist (top 5%) The Lark Theatre Play Development Fellow
6th annual Anne Cooke Reid Memorial Production (Joe Turner's Come and Gone)
JOE TURNER’S COME AND GONE written by August Wilson
Directed by Denise J. Hart
Date: Nov 8-11, 15-18, 2006
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Dramaturgy: Study Guide contributors & Symposium Speakers: Greg Carr, Patrick Goodin, Denise J. Hart, Sais Kamalidiin, Sandra Shannon
Cast: R'Kheim Y. Young, Jalila A. Bowie, Anthony Londell, Michael Saltzman, William Little III, Michael James Shaw, Alexa Hails (youth actor), Lace Williams, Tunde Smith (youth actor), Courtney Thomas, Traci M. Allen
Design/Creative Team: Michael C. Stepowany, Scenic/Technical Director. George H. Epting, Lighting/Sound Designer. Reggie Ray, Costume Designer. Charles Coward, Production Manager. Sakeenah Kinard, Assistant Production Manager. Robin Harris, Properties Designer
Stage Management: Catherine Peoples, Production Stage Manager. Anthony McDonald, Assistant Stage Manager
THE STORY OF TRACY SCOTT WILSON (Howard Players Student Production)
Directed by Eric Ruffin
Date: Dec. 1-3, 2006
Produced in Environmental Theatre Space
Cast: Makeda Abraham, Talibah Aquil, Teisha Duncan, Kyle Jones, Kevin O'Reilly, Sasha Sloan, Amanda Thickpenny, Avia Hicks-Chapman, Ashlei Dabney, Kisa Willis
Design/Creative Team: Nickolan Vaughan & Michael Shaw, Set/ Properties Design. Mimie Laurent, Lighting. Kendra Wright, Sound Designer. Jillian Green, Costume Designer. Cheryl Billingslea, Make-up Design. Shauna wellman, Production Manager. Sakeenah Kinard, Assistant Production Manager. Robin Harris,
Stage Management: Amber Iman Moorer, Production Stage Manager. Evette Marie White, Assistant Stage Manager
Director's Notes - Joe Turner's Come and Gone
The year is 1911; post emancipation and African Americans are leaving the south in droves. They head north seeking their dreams of a better life. In the Holly boarding house we see a mixed group of individuals, all in search of a fresh start and a new way to make their own mark in the world. Some walk, some take the train, some ride a wagon and horse, but no matter the transportation the Negroes keep comin’ north. So goes the paraphrase of part of Seth Holly’s speech in the play. He ends that same speech by saying: “They got a rude awakenin’!” Since the post emancipation south was primarily left to itself to create a code of conduct regarding treatment of blacks, there were obviously those who sought ways to keep the system of slavery intact. Thus, for some Blacks, that rude awakenin’ that Seth refers to was confronted long before their arrival in the north.
Herald Loomis, a former deacon in the church, was in Memphis Tennessee minding his own business, when he stopped to do a little preaching to a group of young men. A white man (Joe Turney) accused him of a crime he didn’t commit and he was imprisoned and forced to work on a chain gang for seven years. (many falsely accused black men worked from 7-25 years of forced labor).
During this time he lost his wife as she gave her life to aiding in prospering the church in the north. His daughter was left with relatives in the South while her mother traveled north. The trauma Loomis experiences push him over the edge.
A time filled with forced labor and false imprisonment, and uncertainty regarding his family, cause Loomis, to lose his connection with – his soul, his mind, his song. That reason we have for living. However, the ancestral memory map (of those who survived the middle passage) that resides in our genes is called forth as an assistive guide and deliverance tool by the conjure man Bynum who hopes that Loomis will be the Shiny Man he hopes he can lay eyes on one more time so he can die a happy man.
Thus, the wheels of deliverance are set in motion. Loomis sets out to find his wife but by plays end he succeeds in finding that missing piece, his song, and remakes himself into a man that can breathe whole and pure and finally stand on his own two feet. - Directed by Denise J. Hart
Production photos, Joe Turner's Come and Gone. Photo credit Jarvis Grant
Spring Semester 2007 Season Theme: The Life I Sing About
8th annual memorial production BEVERLY GAIL BARNES KELCH April 22, 1937 - December 13, 1997 (A Chorus Line)
A CHORUS LINE (Musical)
Book by James Kirkwood & Nicholas Donte. Lyrics by Edward Kleban
Directed by Mark Jolin. Choreographed by Princess Mhoon-Cooper & Toni Lombre. Musical Director Darius Smith
Date: March 7-10, 14-17, 2007
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
(Cast/Design & Management teams are missing. In search of a program)
COLOROGRAPHY: The Dances of Jacob Lawrence (Dance concert)
Associate Director by Sherrill Berryman-Johnson
Date: April 17, 2007
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Performers/Design & Management teams are missing. In search of a program
Choreographers: Donald byrd, Rennie Harris, Kevin Ward, Reggie Wilson
2005/2006 - Joe W. Selmon, Chair, Department of Theatre Arts
2005/2006 - Joe W. Selmon, Chair, Department of Theatre Arts
Dean: Dr. James Donaldson, College of Arts & Sciences
Associate Dean: Dr. Tritobia Benjamin, Division of Fine Arts
Major: B.F.A. Theatre Arts
Areas of Concentration: Acting, Dance, Musical Theatre, Theatre Administration, Theatre Technology
Minor Areas of Concentration: Dance, Playwriting, Theatre Arts, Theatre Administration, Theatre Technology
Staff: Greg Jackson, Janet L. Johnson, Luqman Salim, T. W. Starnes, Michael Stepowany
Faculty:
Tenured - Kelsey E. Collie, Henriette Edmonds, Mark Jolin, George Epting, Al Freeman Jr, Sherrill Berryman-Johnson, Mike Malone, Joe W. Selmon, Dr. Carole W. Singleton
Tenure Track - Kim James Bey, Denise J. Hart, Darius Smith
Non Tenured - Charles Coward, Tim James, Toni Lombre, Marvin McAllister, Princess Mhoon-Cooper, Reggie Ray
Howard Players President: ?
Fall Semester 2005 (no season theme mentioned)
R/J: THE FATAL TOUR book by Raquis Da’Juan Petree music & lyrics Darius Smith (Musical)
Directed by Raquis Da’Juan Petree. Choreographed by Tuluv Price
Date: Fall 2005
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
(Cast/Design & Management teams are missing. In search of a program)
Student cast below
Photo credit Raquis Da'Juan Petree
Spring Semester 2006 (no season theme mentioned)
THIS WOMAN’S WORK (Dance concert. Guest choreographer showcase)
co-curated by Princess Mhoon Cooper and Bridget L. Moore
Date: Feb. 3 & 4, 2006
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Choreographers: Camille A. Brown, Shani Collins, Princess Mhoon Cooper, Bridget Moore
Performers: Shani Nwando Ikerioha Colins, Kevin Guy, Juel Lane, Francine Ott, Clarice Young, Kutia Jawa, Karah Abiog, Arcel Cabuag, Lenoris Evans, Telly fowler, Mayte Natalio, Keon Thoulouis, , Amber Mayberry, Jazmine Dugall, Anthea Young, Phakiso Collins, Samantha Farrow, Justina Gaddy, Karla Garcia, Tiffany Jackson, Dolores Lagdameo, Kristin Taylor, Penelope Armstead-Williams
Production/Design Team: Dan Tuttle & Brenda Gray, Lighting Designers. Michale C. Stepowany, Technical Director. Reggie Ray, Costume Designer. Charles Coward, Production Manager
Stage Management: Denise Rose, Stage Manager. Kaijah Jackson, Assistant Stage Manager
Spring Semester 2006 (no season theme mentioned)
7th annual memorial production BEVERLY GAIL BARNES KELCH April 22, 1937 - December 13, 1997 (Eyes)
EYES written by Mari Evans (Musical)
Directed by Mike Malone. Choreographed by Mike Malone & Sandra L. Holloway. Musical Arrangements & Orchestrations by Darius Smith
Date: March 1-4, 8-11, 2006
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Traci M. Allen, Erskine J. Ritchie II, William Bryant Miles, Michael James Shaw, Amber Iman Moorer, Evette Marie /white, Taliba-Atiya, Gregory Gardner, Brandon Johnson, Krystal Rascoe, Brittany N. Williams, Ashlei C. Dabney, Kendahl Gardner, Khristena E. Jones, Zurin Vilanueva, Pamoja Days, Christian Gibbs, Lydia Jones, Nickolas Vaughan, Teisha Duncan, Randall Holloway, Anthony Londell, Tiffany Webb
Design/Creative Team: Darius Smith, Musical Director. Michael Stepowany, Scenic Designer/Technical Director. George H. Epting, Lighting Designer. Gary Drew, Sound Designer. Reggie Ray, Costume Designer. Charles Coward, Production Manager. Dhakeria Cunningham, Make-up Design
Stage Management, Shanna Wellman, Stage Manager. Tselane Prescott & Regina Mapson, Assistant Stage Managers
Spring Semester 2006 (no season theme mentioned)
ROOTS RITUALS RHYTHMS (Dance concert)
Artistic Director Dr. Sherrill Berryman-Johnson
Date: April 9, 2006
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Dance performance series of seminars, master classes, lectures, workshops and concerts
Choreographers: Fofi Akoto, Kadiatou Conte, Assane Konte, Akua Kouyate, Katherine Smith, Sherrill Berryman Johnson
Performers: (no program to reference)
Production/Design Team: Dan Tuttle, Lighting Designer. Reggie Ray, Costume Designer. Charles Coward, Production Manager
Stage Management: Nikia Jackson, Stage Manager
2004/2005 - Joe W. Selmon, Chair, Department of Theatre Arts
2004/2005 - Joe W. Selmon, Chair, Department of Theatre Arts
Dean: Dr. James A. Donaldson, College of Arts & Sciences
Associate Dean: Dr. Tritobia Benjamin, Division of Fine Arts
Major: B.F.A. Theatre Arts
Areas of Concentration: Acting, Dance, Musical Theatre, Theatre Administration, Theatre Education, Theatre Technology
Minor Areas of Concentration: Dance, Playwriting, Theatre Arts, Theatre Administration, Theatre Technology
Staff: Janet L. Johnson, Claudia Neal, Michael C. Stepowany
Faculty:
Tenured - Kelsey E. Collie, Henriette Edmonds, Mark Jolin, George Epting, Al Freeman Jr, Sherrill Berryman-Johnson, Mike Malone, Joe W. Selmon, Dr. Carole W. Singleton
Tenure Track - Kim James Bey, Sybil Roberts-Williams
Non Tenured - Susan Cohen, Charles Coward, Denise J. Hart, Tim James, Reggie Ray, Eric Ruffin
Howard Players President: Goldie Patrick
Fall Semester 2004 (no season theme mentioned)
AFRICAN COMPANY PRESENTS RICHRD III written by Carlyle Brown
Directed by Brandon B. White
Date: Nov. 10-13, 2004
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
(Cast/Design & Management teams are missing. In search of a program)
FANTASTIKS (Musical) book and lyrics by Tom Jones
Directed by Mark Jolin
Date: Oct. 6-9, 13-16 2004
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Makeda Abraham, Isaiah Johnson, Ashley Honore, Brittany N. Williams, Darryl Armando Payton, Marinda Anderson, Candice Smith, William Bryant Miles, Kenneth E. Corbin, Erskine Ritchie
Design/Creative Team: Anthony Booker, Musical Director. Michael Stepowany, Scenic Designer/Technical Director. George H. Epting, Lighting/Sound Designer. Samantha C. Jones, Costume Designer. Charles Coward, Production Manager. Breanna K. Williams, Assistant to the Production Manager
Stage Management, Tiffany N. Robinson, Stage Manager. Tselane Prescott & Regina Mapson, Assistant Stage Managers
NO EXIT written by Jean Paul-Sartre. (Howard Players Student Production)
Directed by Carla Pearson
Date: Dec. 3-4, 2004
Produced in Environmental Theatre Space
Spring Semester 2005 (no season theme mentioned)
6th annual memorial production BEVERLY GAIL BARNES KELCH April 22, 1937 - December 13, 1997 (Into the Woods)
INTO THE WOODS (Musical) book by James Lapine. Music and Lyrics by Stephen Sondhem
Directed and choreographed by Raquis Da’Juan Petree
Date: March 3-5, 9-12, 2005
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Traci Allen, Kiyaana Cox, Brandon Johnson, Sasha Sloan, Isaiah Young, Marinda Anderson, Ashlei Dabney, Sherice Johnson, Candy Smith, William Bryant Miles, Crystal Bailey, Ayanna hardy, ericka M. Lee, Chris Whitney, Tiffany Christopher, Milton Henderson, Amber Moorer, Brittany N. Williams, Kenneth Corbin, Ashley Honore, Darryl A. Payton
Design/Creative Team: Anthony Booker, Musical Director. Michael Stepowany, Scenic Designer/Technical Director. George H. Epting, Lighting Designer. Reggie Ray, Costume Designer. Charles Coward, Production Manager. Gary Drew, Sound Designer. Breanna K. Williams, Assistant to the Production Manager
Stage Management, Qadriyyah Shamsid-Deen, Stage Manager. Catherine Peoples, Charity Phalo & Denise Rose, Assistant Stage Managers
RASTA/REGGAE PLAY READING SERIES
Coordinated by Sybil Roberts-Williams
Date: April 15, 18-19, 2005
Produced in Environmental Theatre Space
CIRCLE OF WOMEN traveling the waves of... THE MIDDLE PASSAGE (Dance concert)
Artistic Director Dr. Sherrill Berryman-Johnson
Date: April 15-16, 2005
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Dance performance series of seminars, master classes, lectures, workshops and concerts
Choreographers: Fofi Akoto, Afia Nson Akoto, Sherrill, Berrymn Johnson, Debbie Blunden Diggs, Ronald K. Brown, Sandra Fortune Green, Dyane Harvey, Sandra Holloway, Assane Konte, Abena Makini Niliwa Abieni, Amaniyea Payne, Pat Thomas, Andrea Woods
Performers: Lindsey Benton, Charity Buckner, Otis Donovan Herring, Nyasha George, Danielle Glover, Nikia Jackson, Shannon Johnson, Crystal Malone, Soccara Marcus, Qarrianne McClellan, Shola Roberts, Lynet Rochelle, Nabowire Stokes, Jana Thompkins, Melissa Tyler, Arneshia Williams, Jevettra Devlin, Thea Jones, Ayisha Morgan-Lee, Rohiatou Siby, Jennelye Todman
Production/Design Team: Dan Tuttle, Lighting Designer. Reggie Ray, Costume Designer. Charles Coward, Production Manager
Stage Management: Nikia Jackson, Stage Manager
2003/2004 - Joe W. Selmon, Interim Chair, Department of Theatre Arts
2003/2004 - Joe W. Selmon, Interim Chair, Department of Theatre Arts
Dean: Dr. James Donaldson, College of Arts & Sciences
Associate Dean: Dr. Tritobia Benjamin, Division of Fine Arts
Major: B.F.A. Theatre Arts
Areas of Concentration: Acting, Dance, Musical Theatre, Theatre Administration, Theatre Education, Theatre Technology
Minor Areas of Concentration: Dance, Playwriting, Theatre Arts, Theatre Administration, Theatre Technology
Staff: Janet L. Johnson, Claudia Neal, Michael C. Stepowany, T. W. Starnes
Faculty:
Tenured - Kelsey E. Collie, Henriette Edmonds, Mark Jolin, George Epting, Al Freeman Jr, Sherrill Berryman-Johnson, Mike Malone, Joe W. Selmon, Dr. Carole W. Singleton
Tenure Track - Sybil Roberts
Non Tenured - Kim James Bey, Susan Cohen, Charles Coward, Denise J. Hart, Tim James, Reggie Ray, Eric Ruffin
Howard Players President: ?
Fall Semester 2003 Season Theme: We Are a Family
SHAKIN' THE MESS OUTTA MISERY written by Shey Youngblood
Directed by Kim Bey.
Date: Oct. 15-18, 21-25, 2003
Produced in Environmental Theatre Space
Cast: Shea Scott, Nyahale A. Allie, Brandice Manuel, Tiffany Jackson, Jasmine D. Wade, Ashley Honore, Catherine E. Peoples, Marinda Anderson, Patrese D. McClain, Goldie E. Patrick
Design/Creative Team: Michael C. Stepowany, Set/Technical Director. George H. Epting, Lighting/Sound Designer. Samantha Jones, Costume Designer. Charles Coward, Production Manager. Qadriyyah Shamsid-Deen, Assistant Director. Dr. Sherrill Berryman-Johnson, Choreographer. Sybil Roberts, Dramaturg. Roxi Trapp-Dukes, Assistant Dramaturg.
Stage Management: Ronald Newman, Production Stage Manager. Tiffany Robinson, Stage Manager. Chanelle Dompig, Assistant Stage Manager
Design/Creative Team: Qadriyyah Shamsid-Deen, Assistant Director. George Epting, Lighting/Sound. Sherrill Berryman-Johnson, Choreographer. Michael C. Stepowany, Set Designer. Samantha Jones (student), CostumeDesigner
CUT FLOWERS written by Gavin Lawrence
Directed by Eric Ruffin
Date: Nov. 12-15, 19-22, 2003
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Catherine Peoples, Isaiah Johnson, Cedric Sanders, Geonard F. Butler II, Trei Ramsey, Hari Williams, Ashford J. Thomas
Design/Creative Team: Michael C. Stepowany, Scenic/Technical Director. George H. Epting, Lighting/Sound Designer. Samantha Jones, Costume Designer. Charles Coward, Production Manager. Chris McGriff, Assistant Director.
Stage Management: Janelle Rollocks, Stage Manager. Reegan Haynes & Chris Pearson, Stage Managers
Spring Semester 2004 Season Theme: We Are a Family
5th annual memorial production BEVERLY GAIL BARNES KELCH April 22, 1937 - December 13, 1997 (Abyssinia)
ABYSSINIA (Musical) Book by James Racheff and Ted Kocielek. Music by Ted Kodolek. Lyrics by James Racheff. Orchestration by Darryl Waters
Directed and choreographed by Mike Malone
Date: March 10-13, 2004
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Ashford Thomas, Kathy Walker, Marinda Anderson, Pilin Broden, Danielle Withers, Ericka Lee, Ashley Honore, Traci Allen, Nicole Gant, Jermaine Small, Nyahale Allie, Daphne Sharpe, Anthony Newsome, Jonathan McCrory, Candice Smith
Design/Creative Team: Darrel Ervin, Musical Director. Michael Stepowany, Scenic Designer/Technical Director. George H. Epting, Lighting Designer. Reggie Ray, Costume Designer. Victoria Joy Murray, Assistant Director. Dwayne Murray, Assistant Choreographer. Charles Coward, Production Manager. Gary Drew, Sound Designer. Breanna K. Williams, Assistant to the Production Manager
Stage Management, C. Joi Bradley, Stage Manager. Arizona Newsum, LaTique Simmons, Assistant Stage Managers
WO...MEN SPEAKING OUR VOICES (Dance concert)
Artistic Director Dr. Sherrill Berryman-Johnson
Date: April 5, 2004
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Dance performance series of seminars, master classes, lectures, workshops and concerts
(Performers/Design & Management teams are missing. In search of a program)
ROXIE ROKER REPERTORY TOURING COMPANY
Company Director Denise J. Hart
Available for bookings:
Mimes and Yarns written by Kelsey E. Collie
History's High Notes written by Denise J. Hart and Chris McGriff
When We Drum by Denise J. Hart
Five O'Clock Spit by Chris McGriff
2002/2003 - Henriette Edmonds, Chair, Department of Theatre Arts
2002/2003 - Henriette Edmonds, Chair, Department of Theatre Arts
Dean: Dr. James Donaldson, College of Arts & Sciences
Associate Dean: Dr. Tritobia Benjamin, Division of Fine Arts
Major: B.F.A. Theatre Arts
Areas of Concentration: Acting, Dance, Musical Theatre, Theatre Administration, Theatre Education, Theatre Technology
Minor Areas of Concentration: Dance, Playwriting, Theatre Arts, Theatre Administration, Theatre Technology
Staff: Janet L. Johnson, Claudia Neal, Michael C. Stepowany, T.W. Starnes
Faculty:
Tenured - Kelsey E. Collie, Henriette Edmonds, Mark Jolin, George Epting, Al Freeman Jr, Sherrill Berryman-Johnson, Mike Malone, Joe Selmon, Dr. Carole W. Singleton
Tenure Track - Sybil Roberts
Non Tenured - Kim James Bey, Susan Cohen, Charles Coward, Denise J. Hart, Tim James, William Jones, Reggie Ray, Denise D. Saunders
Howard Players President: ?
Fall Semester 2002 (no season theme mentioned)
THE OLD SETTLER written by John Henry Redwood
Directed by Carole W. Singleton
Date: Oct. 2-5, 9-11 2002
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
(Cast/Design & Management teams are missing. In search of a program)
ROXIE ROKER REPERTORY TOURING COMPANY
Company Director Denise J. Hart
Available for bookings:
Wearing the Mask written by Henri Edmonds
History's High Notes written by Denise J. Hart and Chris McGriff
Spring Semester 2003 (no season theme mentioned)
WIT written by Margaret Edson
Directed by Mark Jolin
Date: Jan. 29-Feb. 1, 5-8, 2003
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Suli Myrie, isaiah J. Johnson, Geonard F. Butler, Alia Chapman, Daphne Sharpe
Design/Creative Team: Michael C. Stepowany, Set/Properties Designer/Technical Director. George H. Epting, Lighting/Sound Designer. Samantha Jones, Costume Designer. Charles Coward, Production Manager. Ayanna Mackins, Assistant to the Director. Gregory Jackson, Assistant Technical Director. Victoria Murray, Assistant Director. Keon White, Assistant to the Director
Stage Management: Chemeeka J. Bradley, Stage Manager. Erica Harper & Shea Scott, Assistant Stage Managers
4th annual memorial production BEVERLY GAIL BARNES KELCH April 22, 1937 - December 13, 1997 (God's Trombones)
GOD’S TROMBONES based on the book by James Weldon Johnson (Musical)
Directed and choreographed by Mike Malone. Music by Raymond Reeder & William Hubbard
Date: March 7-8, 12-15, 2003
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: James Harris, Shante Moore, Danielle Withers, Geonard Butler, Kevin Woodson, Timothy Haywood, Charles T. smith III, William Bryant Miles, Terrance Payton, Brandice Manuel, Nicole Gant, Tony Thomas, Tammy Hurt, Anthony Manough, Ayana Wylie, Bradford Benham, Osita Anigbo, Alia Chapman, Keittra Colombel, Ashley Honore, Daren Joseph, Shante Moore, Candice Smith, Tenna Torres, Camille Goode, Phallon Kimpson, Alethea King, Michael Andre Houston II, Daphne Sharpe, Kevin Green, Marinda Anderson, Ericka M. Lee,
Design/Creative Team: Darius Smith, Musical Director. Nicholas Packer, Assistant Musical Director. Michael Stepowany, Scenic Designer/Technical Director. Anthony Bucky Adams, Lighting Designer. Reggie Ray, Costume Designer. Dwayne Murray, Assistant Choreographer. Charles Coward, Production Manager. Gary Drew, Sound Designer. Mulvnenia Hemmings, Assistant to the Production Manager
Stage Management, Shanna Wellman, Stage Manager. Jonathan Carrington, Janelle Rollocks, Assistant Stage Managers
Spring Semester 2003 (no season theme mentioned)
THE BECKETT SHOWCASE
Directed by Michael C. Stepowany
Date: April 4, 2003
Produced in Environmental Theatre Space.
Four short works by Beckett: Rockabye, Come and Go, Footfalls, Catastrophe
Cast: Vallyn Smith, Makeda Abraham, Shea Scott, Nicole Mebane, Kenneth Corbin, Keon White
Design/Creative Team: Tiffany N. Robinson, Scenic Designer/Technical Director. Amoree Joe, Lighting/Sound Designer. Samantha Jones, Costume Designer. Denise Rose, Sound Design. Reegan M. Haynes, Production Manager. Carla Pearson, Assistant Director.
Stage Management: Chennae Rodrigo-Butler, Stage Manager
BODY OF MESSAGES (Dance concert)
Artistic Director Dr. Sherrill Berryman-Johnson
Date: April 19-20, 2003
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Choreographers: Zane Booker, Reggie Glass, Christopher Huggins, Kevin Iega Jeff, Assane Konte
Guest Artist: Tashonia Polynice, Dr. Sherrill Berryman-Johnson
2001/2002 - Henriette Edmonds, Chair, Department of Theatre Arts
2001/2002 - Henriette Edmonds, Chair, Department of Theatre Arts
Dean: Dr. James Donaldson, College of Arts & Sciences
Associate Dean: Dr. Tritobia Benjamin, Division of Fine Arts
Major: B.F.A. Theatre Arts
Areas of Concentration: Acting, Dance, Directing, Musical Theatre, Theatre Administration, Theatre Education, Theatre Technology
Minor Areas of Concentration: Dance, Playwriting, Theatre Arts, Theatre Administration, Theatre Technology
Staff: Janet L. Johnson, Claudia Neal, Michael C. Stepowany, T. W. Starnes
Faculty:
Tenured - Kelsey E. Collie, Henriette Edmonds, Mark Jolin, George Epting, Al Freeman Jr, Sherrill Berryman-Johnson, Vera J. Katz, Mike Malone, Joe Selmon, Dr. Carole W. Singleton
Tenure Track - Sybil Roberts
Non Tenured - Kim James Bey, Clinton L. Carbon, Susan Cohen, Charles Coward, Denise J. Hart, Tim James, William Jones, Reggie Ray, Denise D. Saunders
Howard Players President: Kibibi Dillon
Fall Semester 2001 (no season theme mentioned)
BEFORE IT HITS HOME written by Cheryl West
Directed by Mark Jolin
Date: Sept. 25-29. Oct 2-6, 2001
Produced in Environmental Theatre Space
Cast: Steven A. Claiborne (featured guest artist), Jovan Hicks, Ronald Hysten, Stacy Williams, Kibibi T. Dillon, Charles Coward (faculty), Denise J. Hart, (faculty), Julian A. Kennedy (young actor), Steven A. Butler
Design/Creative Team: Michael C. Stepowany, Set/Properties Designer/Technical Director. George H. Epting, Lighting/Sound Designer. Reggie Ray, Costume Designer. Denise D. Saunders, Production Manager. Ayanna Mackins, Assistant to the Director. Gregory Jackson, Assistant Technical Director
Stage Management: Maya R. S. Perkins, Stage Manager. Stephanie Larsosa, Brian D. Smith, Assistant Stage Managers
2nd annual Anne Cooke Reid memorial production (The Piano Lesson)
THE PIANO LESSON written by August Wilson
Directed by Dr. Carole W. Singleton
Date: Nov. 7-10, 14-17,2001
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Geonard F. Butler, Logan Coles, Kenneth E. Corbin, Tilita Lutterloh, Erika McKinley, Jeanelle Sabrina, Cedric Sanders, Keon T. white
Design/Creative Team: Michael C. Stepowany, Set/Properties Designer/Technical Director. George H. Epting, Lighting Designer. Reggie Ray, Costume Designer. Dr. Sherrill Berryman-Johnson, Choreographer. Denise D. Saunders, Production Manager. Charles A. Coward, Assistant Production Manager. Camille Gurnell, Assistant to the Director. Gregory Jackson, Assistant Technical Director
Stage Management: Belvey Russ, Stage Manager. Maya Fykes, Monique Montoya, Assistant Stage Managers
Fall Semester 2001 (no season theme mentioned)
HOWARD PLAYERS FESTIVAL OF ONE ACT COMEDIES (Howard Players student production)
Date: Dec. 5-6, 2001
Produced in Environmental Theatre Space
ROXIE ROKER REPERTORY TOURING COMPANY
Company Director Clinton L. Carbon
Available for bookings:
Wearing the Mask written by Henri Edmonds
Mimes and Yarns written by Kelsey E. Collie
Spring Semester 2002 (no season theme mentioned)
3rd annual memorial production BEVERLY GAIL BARNES KELCH April 22, 1937 - December 13, 1997 (Once on This Island)
ONCE ON THIS ISLAND (Musical) book and lyrics by Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty
Directed and choreographed by Mike Malone
Date: March 6-9, 13-16, 2002
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
LIBERATING PRAYER: A LOVE SONG FOR MUMIA written by Sybil J. Roberts
Directed by Denise D. Saunders
Date: Jan. 31, Feb. 2, 5-9, 2002
Produced in Environmental Theatre Space
Cast: Alia Shakira Chapman, Phakiso Collins, Ronald L. Hysten, Amoree Joe, Ebonee Johnson, Patrese McClain, Goldie E. Patrick, Trei Ramsey, Roxi Trapp-Dukes, Keon T. White, Brandon Young
Design/Creative Team: Michael C. Stepowany, Set/Properties Designer/Technical Director. George H. Epting, Lighting Designer. Reggie Ray, Costume Designer. Kim Bey, Acting Coach. Dr. Sherrill Berryman-Johnson, Choreographer. Mike Malone, Choreographer. Charles Coward, Production Manager. Camille Gurnell, Assistant Director. Clawanna Etherly, Assistant to the Director. Gregory Jackson, Assistant Technical Director
Stage Management: Ronald Newman, Stage Manager. Mulvenia Hemmings & Shanna Wellman, Assistant Stage Managers
NEW VOICES NEW VISIONS (Dance concert)
Artistic Director Dr. Sherrill Berryman-Johnson
Date: April 19-21, 2002
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Dance performance series of seminars, master classes, lectures, workshops and concerts
2000/2001 - Henriette Edmonds, chair, Department of Theatre Arts
2000/2001 - Henriette Edmonds, chair, Department of Theatre Arts
Dean: Dr. James A. Donaldson, College of Arts & Sciences
Associate Dean: Dr. Tritobia H. Benjamin, Division of Fine Arts
Major: B.F.A. Theatre Arts
Areas of Concentration: Acting, Dance, Directing, Musical Theatre, Theatre Administration, Theatre Education, Theatre Technology
Minor Areas of Concentration: Dance, Playwriting, Theatre Arts, Theatre Administration, Theatre Technology
Staff: Janet L. Johnson, Claudia Neal, Michael C. Stepowany, T. W. Starnes
Faculty:
Tenured - Kelsey E. Collie, Henriette Edmonds, Mark Jolin, George Epting, Al Freeman Jr, Sherrill Berryman-Johnson, Vera J. Katz, Mike Malone, Joe Selmon, Dr. Carole W. Singleton
Tenure Track - Sybil Roberts
Non Tenured - Kim James Bey, Clinton L. Carbon, Susan Cohen, Charles Coward, Tim James, William Jones, Reggie Ray, Denise D. Saunders
Howard Players President: Glen Gordon
Fall Semester 2000 Season Theme: Sifting Through the Sands of Time
ROMEO AND JULIET written by William Shakespeare. (a collaboration with Catholic University)
Directed by Mark Jolin
Date: At Catholic University Nov. 1-4. At Howard University Nov. 8-12, 2000
(lists are incomplete. No program available)
Cast: (cast is incomplete. In search of a program)
Howard: Logan Coles, Glenn Gordon, Onira Satterwhite
Catholic: Michael Paolantonio, Nicholas Lowe
Design/Creative Team: Thomas Donahue (Catholic University), Set Designer/Technical Director. George H. Epting, Lighting Designer. Reggie Ray, Costume Designer
MAKING THE CONNECTION PROFESSIONAL ALUMNI SERIES
Date: Fall 2000
Vera J. Katz, Producer.
Alumni Speakers: Shauneille Perry Ryder, Dianne Houston, Lark Hackshaw, B. Mark Seabrooks, Timothy Bond, Ellen M. Lewis
Spring Semester 2001 Season Theme: Sifting Through the Sands of Time
WHO’S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOLFE written by Edward Albee
Directed by Vera J. Katz
Date: Jan. 24-27, 31 Feb. 1-3, 2001
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Ashley C. Turner, Jennifer Guitierrez, Onira Satterwhite, Glenn Gordon, Justin Higginbohtham, Kim Bey (faculty)
Design/Creative Team: Michael Stepowany, Set Designer/Technical Director. George H. Epting, Lighting Designer. Reggie Ray, Costume Designer. Denise D. Saunders, Production Manager. Camille Gurnell, Assistant to the Director. Thomas A. Korth, Music Consultant
Stage Management: Brandi M. Harris, Stage Manager. Ayanna D. Mackins, Assistant Stage Managers
2nd annual memorial production BEVERLY GAIL BARNES KELCH April 22, 1937 - December 13, 1997 (Timbuktu)
TIMBUKTU (Musical) Book by Luther Davis. Music and Lyrics by Robert Wright and George Forrest
Directed and choreographed by Mike Malone. Musial Director Anthony Booker
Date: March 9-10, 13-17, 2001
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Cast: Folami Bayete Ankoanda-Thompson, Koshka Blagburn, Steven Butler, Charisma, Steven A. Claiborne, Keittra L. Colombel, Andre L. Cooper, Franchell "Frenchie" Davis, Roxi Trapps-Dukes, McKenzie A. Frye, Reigna Garner, Andrea Gerald, Zyneisha Green, LC Harden Jr, Stephen B. Harris, Larry Hylton, Brynia Johnson, Nicholle Jean Leary, LeeAnet Noble, Bryan Oliver, Will Pailen, Sarah Joyce Pippen, Greg Alverez Reid, Aimme Vanessa Rogers, Cedric Sanders, Danielle K. Thomas, Tony Thomas, Ashley Turner, Tryphena Wade, Keon White
Design/Creative Team: Michael Stepowany, Scenic Designer/Technical Director. Anthony Bucky Adams, Lighting Designer. Reggie Ray, Costume Designer. Dwayne Murray, Assistant Choreographer. Denise D. Saunders, Production Manager. Charles Coward, Assistant Production Manager. Byron Hurst, Sound Designer. Darius Smith, Assistant to the Musical Director. Courtney Baker Oliver, Assistant to the Director
Stage Management: Ronald Lee Newman, Stage Manager. Maya Fykes, Belvey Russ, Assistant Stage Managers
Spring Semester 2001 Season Theme: Sifting Through the Sands of Time
3. MIMES AND YARNS written by Kelsey E. Collie
Roxie Roker Touring Company
Directed by Clinton L. Carbon
Date: March 28, 30. April 6, 13, 2001
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Company: Steven Butler, Kibibi Dillon, Clawanna Etherly, Reigna Garner, Ronald Hysten, Isaiah Johnson, Leron Lee, Patrese McClain, Nicole mebane, Jamin Powell, Trei Ramsay, Aimme Rogers, Cedric Sanders, Vallyn Smith, Nikki St. John, Brandice Sylka Manuel, Janna Thompson, Raymond Watson, Stacy Williams, Keon White, Kendal Whitlock
Design/Creative Team: Michael Terry, Music Director. Henri Edomnd, Producer. Denise D. Saunders, Company Manager. Dana Caffee-Glenn, Production Assistant. Claudia Neal, Administrative Assistant
Stage Management: Chris McGriff, Stage Manager. Akilah McKnight, Assistant Stage Managers
4. SPEAKING THE VOICES OF OUR PEOPLE (Dance concert)
Artistic Director, Sherrill Berryman-Johnson
Date: April 20-22, 2001
Produced in Ira Aldridge Theatre
Choreographers: Ronald K. Brown, Kim Bears, Sherrill Berryman-Johnson, Kadiatou Conte, Kevin Iega jeff, Assane Konte, Kouyate Family-Djimo, Akua, Mady, Amadou, Bintou, Walter Nicks, Wumi Olaiya, Harold Pierson
Guest Artist: Sybil Roberts, Al Smith
Performers: Folami Anokoanda-Thompson, Tiffany Jackson, Nikkia Neal, Danielle Thomas,, Stephanie Demby-Afum, Anniwue Roberts, Roxi Trapp-Dukes, Jessica Ellis, Danielle Ruth, Jasmine Wade, McKenzie Frye, April Thomas, Tryphena Wade, Glenn Gordon, Ronald Hysten, Tiffany Jackson, Ashley turner, Onira Satterwhite, patrice Commodore
Production/Design Team: T. W. Starnes, Lighting Designer. Reggie Ray, Costume Designer. Luqman Salim, Costume Design Assistant. Wunmi Olaiya, Guest Costume Designer. Michael Stepowany, Technical Director. Christin Williams (student), Assistant Rehearsal Director
Stage Management: Amoree Day, Stage Manager
Click HERE to Review 2000-1990 Theatrical Production History
Please note, this research site is not a comprehensive report on all Department of Theatre Arts performance/workshop/symposia/masterclass presentations. Nor is it comprehensive for all Howard Players performance presentations. Nor is this a comprehensive report on the Dance area performance/workshop/masterclass presentations. The research continues.
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