Executive Director Ann Joseph Douglas
Artistic Director Daniel Bryant
PRESENTS
THE NATIVITY By: McKinley Johnson Director Ilesa Duncan Musical Director/Composer/Arranger Jaret Landon Co-Choreographers Kevin Iega Jeff and Nicole Springer Stage Manager *Razor Wintercastle Scenic Design Andre Onegin Lighting Design Casey Diers Costume Design Michael Alan Stein Sound Design Rick Sims Properties Design Jesse Gaffney Production Manager Andre Robinson *Actor’s Equity Association Congo Square Theatre Company 2936 N. Southport Suite 210 Chicago IL 60657 773 296-1108 Office 773 472-6637 Fax: www.congosquaretheatre.org
AN AGENCY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS
The 2010-2011 Season is graciously funded in part by:The MacArthur Fund for the Arts and Culture at Prince and The MacArthur Fund for the Arts and Culture at Richard H. Drieshaus Foundation. The Nativity 1
S U P P O R T S TA F F Assistant Stage Manager Sharlet Webb Costume Coordinator Samantha C. Jones Production Intern Olivia Jaras SPECIAL THANKS The Kennedy Center Lou Johnson Julia Perkins Energence Dance Theater
CAST LIST Kathleen Purcell Turner...........................................................................................................Mary Kevin Dirckson........................................................................................................................Joseph *Alexis J. Rogers.................................................................................................................... Gabriel * John Steven Crowley.....................................................................................Herod/Ensemble Candace C. Edwards................................................................................Johasheba/Ensemble Jazelle Morriss................................................................................................... Athalia/Ensemble Bethany Thomas...................................................................................................Mother of Mary * Byron G. Willis....................................................................................................Father of Joseph * Joelle LaMarre...........................................................................................Elisabeth/Ensemble *Victoria Brady...............................................................................Friend of Mother/Ensemble John Pierce...................................................................................................Wise Man/Ensemble Steven Perkins.......................................................................................Tax Collector/Ensemble Erik Lewis............................................................................................. Roman soldier/Ensemble A’rese Emokpae............................................................................................................Understudy NAME NAME..................................................................................................................Understudy *Member of Actor’s Equity Association C O N G O S Q UA R E E N S E M B L E M E M B E R S Will Sims II * Ann Joseph *Monifa Days * Aaron Todd Douglas * TaRon Patton *Aimee K. Bryant * Javon Johnson Derrick Sanders
*Anthony Irons *Bakesta King *Daniel Bryant Ericka Ratcliff Ron Conner *Alexis J. Rogers *Tracey Bonner *Allan Gilmore
ARTISTIC ASSOCIATES * Chad Boseman *Samuel Roberson *Malkia Stampley Johnson *Member of Actor’s Equity Association 2 Congo Square Theatre Company
SONG LIST Scene 1 Two Thousand Years Ago......................................................................Gabriel/Cast Only You...................................................................................................Mary’s Mother Scene 4 God is Good......................................................................................Friend of Mother In the Moment..................................................................................................... Gabriel Scene 5 A World for Me and Mary.........................................................................Carpenters Scene 6 Chosen.................................................................................................... Aunt Elizabeth Scene 7 You Didn’t Wait ......................................................................................................Angel Scene 9 Her Way’s Cloudy................................................................................................Athalia Scene 12 There Was No Room ...................................................................................... Woman Mary, What’s the Matter..........................................................Johasheba/Women Scene 13 For Unto Us a Child is Born................................................................................. Cast What Child is This............................................................................Father of Joseph Oh Come All Ye Faithful.............................................................................. Elisabeth Scene 14 Go Tell It on the Mountain............................................... Father of Joseph, Cast Stir World.................................................................................................................... Cast We Three Kings.................................................................................................. 3 Kings Scene 15 O Holy Night........................................................................................Mary’s Mother Scene 16 There’s a Little Jew............................................................................................ Herod Scene 17 You Ought to Try the Lord............................................................................ 3 Kings Scene 18 We Declare War......................................................................... Gabriel,Herod,Cast Scene 21 I Have Faith.......................................................................Athaliah and Johasheba Scene 22 Only You.................................................................................................................... Cast 1st Noel....................................................................................................................... Cast Jesus Oh What a Wonderful Child..................................................................... Cast Reprise: Go Tell It on the Mountain................................................................... Cast
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INSPIRED BY LANGSTON HUGHES (Writer) Langston Hughes was one of the most important writers and thinkers of the Harlem Renaissance, which was the African American artistic movement in the 1920s that celebrated black life and culture. Hughes’s creative genius was influenced by his life in New York City’s Harlem, a primarily African American neighborhood. His literary works helped shape American literature and politics. Hughes, like others active in the Harlem Renaissance, had a strong sense of racial pride. Through his poetry, novels, plays, essays, and children’s books, he promoted equality, condemned racism and injustice, and celebrated African American culture, humor, and spirituality.
AU T H O R MCKINLEY JOHNSON (Adaptor/Director) has been writing new musicals for over fifteen years. This year his latest musical contribution was as arranger/composer of Steppenwolf’s Young Audiences production of “Harriet Jacob’s” ,”Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl”, with playwright Lydia Diamond. Last year, he successfully produced his romantic musical comedy, “Sunday Afternoon” at Captain Hard Time Café introducing to the Southside of Chicago its first foray into dinner theatre. He directed the critically acclaimed ‘Crowns” at Open Door Repertory where it not only was extended but moved to another venue and was nominated for several BTAA awards including Best Direction. Some of his award-winning works include “Train Is Comin” produced twice at Chicago Theatre Company and around the country. His musical “Being Beautiful” was developed in part at the New Tuners Workshop with Joan Mazzonell and John Sparks and was produced at Chicago Theatre Company and Bailiwick Repertory. “Georgia Tom: Thomas Andrew Dorsey”,” the Father of Gospel Music”, for which he was given a 1998 NEA/TCG Residency for Playwrights Program Grant, was produced at the Bailiwick Theatre. McKinley will direct his latest musical, “Eye of the Storm, the Bayard Rustin Musical,” written with Marshall Titus and David Taylor, in the upcoming season of Open Door Repertory.
D I R E C TO R ILESA DUNCAN (Director) is a Chicago-based director and producer whose most recent credits include THE GIMMICK and SHAPE OF A GIRL (Pegasus Players), BLUE SHADOW (Lifeline Theatre), HOPE SIX (Chicago Dramatists) and CROWNS for the Contemporary American Theater Company in Columbus Ohio. Other direction at Pegasus includes Jeff Award nominated TICK, TICK BOOM as well as HEATWAVE, BREATH BOOM, EV’RY TIME I FEEL THE SPIRIT, and four Young Playwrights Festivals (DINE & HASH, BLOOMING FLOWERS IN WEEDS, IN YOUR DREAMS and GRACE). Some favorites include the Jeff award-winning comedy LOVE CHILD (Theater on the Lake, Chicago Theater Co., and LiveBait Theater), SHAKIN’ THE MESS OUTTA MISERY, (CTC), WAITING TO BE INVITED (Victory Gardens), SARAFINA (Fleetwood Jourdain at Next Theatre), A RAISIN IN THE SUN (CATCO), F**KING A (Theatre School at DePaul), and RED RAIN at Lincoln Center Theatre/HERE in New York. The new Artistic Director at Pegasus Players, Ilesa is ecstatic to debut with her long-time CongoSquare friends with THE NATIVITY. A member of the Lincoln Center Theatre Director’s Lab, Duncan is a NEA/TCG Directing Fellow. She is also Associate Artistic Director with PanAmerica Performance Works (formerly Latino Chicago) and an Associate Artist with Chicago Dramatists. 4 Congo Square Theatre Company
BIOGR APHIES KATHLEEN PURCELL TURNER (Mary) was born in Columbus , Ohio where she trained at BalletMet with the distinguished April Berry and Yoko Ichino. She continued her dance education at such institutions as the American Dance Festival, Julliard, the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, and Ohio University where she graduated Magna Cum Laude from the Honors Tutorial College with a degree in Dance. Purcell was a member of Cleveland Contemporary Dance Theater from 2005-2007. She has worked with artists such as Ronald K. Brown, Craig “Bopi” Patterson, Murray Louis, Shapiro and Smith and has performed at the Kennedy Center and various venues in New York City . She was honored to play the role of “Mary” in Karamu’s Black Nativity for its 89th and 90th Anniversary season. She is presently a company member with Deeply Rooted Dance Theater and served as their Director of Education. Ms. Turner is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She recently completed her third season at Wylliams/Henry Contemporary Dance Company and is overjoyed to be returning for her second season with Congo Square Theater. KEVIN DIRCKSON (Joseph) Born and raised in Lake Wales, Florida, Kevin trained in Scottish dance under the direction of the late Dennis Kusy for the Lake Wales Highlander Band. In 2004 Kevin Moved to Chicago, Illinois to pursue higher education in the art of movement and dance. Kevin achieved that education through post-secondary institution of Columbia College Chicago. While at Columbia Kevin worked with several top choreographers including, Merce Cunningham, Emily Stein, and Gesel Mason. Also during his time there Kevin created three original pieces titled:
The Bible (2006), As One (2006), and Lala (2007). In May 2008 Kevin completed the curriculum to attain his Bachelor’s Degree. Upon graduation Kevin joined Cerqua Rivera Dance Theater, as a company member for two seasons under the direction of Wilfred Rivera. He then went on to dance for Momenta Dance Company under the brilliant leadership of Stephanie Clemens. Also while dancing for Momaneta Dance Company Kevin was picked up by Winifred Haun & Dancers, He has danced for both companies for three years. While continuing to perform, Kevin also finds time to be the Assistant Director and Choreographer for the dance company Spiritual Feet, which has been up and running for about three years now. In addition Kevin also serves in his dance ministry Yielded Vessel as the Rehearsal Coordinator at New Life Covenant Oakwood Church under the Vision and leadership of Pastor John F. Hannah, and under the careful guidance of dance ministry leader Matthew Williams . ALEXIS J. ROGERS (Gabriel) is a singer/actor/ songwriter hailing from Chicago, IL. She holds a BFA from Howard University with a concentration in Musical Theatre. She just recently closed a nationally acclaimed PORGY AND BESS (Court Theatre) as ‘Bess’. Other Chicago credits include, SPUNK (Court Theatre), THE WIZ (Theatre At The Center), THE OLD SETTLER (Writer’s Theatre), THE PIANO LESSON (Court Theatre), SEVEN GUITARS, BLACK NATIVITY (Congo Square Theatre Company), IF ALL THE WORLD WERE PAPER (Chicago Children’s Theatre), AIN’T MISBEHAVIN (Goodman Theatre), DON’T MAKE ME OVER: A TRIBUTE TO DIONNE WARWICK (Black Ensemble Theater), and RAGTIME (Porchlight Theatre Company). Regional credits include BLACK NATIVITY (Kennedy Center, DC), MERCHANT OF VENICE (Shakespeare Theatre, DC) and, CIVIL WAR and BIG RIVER (Barn Theatre, MI). Alexis is a The Nativity 5
B I O G R A P H I E S ( c o n t .) proud ensemble member of Congo Square Theatre Company, and a proud member of AEA and, AFTRA as well. JOHN STEVEN CROWLEY (Herod) John’s last production with Congo Square was Nativity 2010, where he played the role of Gabriel. John was also inSanctified as the angel Mister. Most recently, John appeared in productions of The Buddy Holly Story at Drury Lane Theatre, directed by Tammy Manner, Ain’t Misbehavin’ at the Goodman Theatre, and Elizabeth Wilder’s Gee’s Bend at Northlight Theatre, both directed by Chuck Smith. John began his theatrical training at the old Loop College (now Harold Washington College) in Of Mice and Men, directed by Ricardo Guttierez. John has received three Jeff Awards and one Black Theatre Alliance Award. Regional Theatres John has performed at include San Diego Repertory Theatre, Alliance Theatre, Arena Stage, Huntington Theatre, Hartford Stage, and Alhambra Theatre. Favorite productions include Jackie Taylor’s Doo Wop Shoo Bop (Jeff Award), Regina Taylor’s Crowns (Helen Hays Nomination), The Wizard of Oz, August Wilson’s Fences, and, of course, Ain’t Misbehavin’(Jeff Award). John has worked with such directors as Sean Graney, Eric Rosen, Henry Godinez, Todd Booth, Marc Robin, Dr.Ralph Green, Ron OJ Parson, and Peter Chatman. John is grateful to God for life and to his family and friends for their love and support over the years. Selah! CANDACE C. EDWARDS (Johasheba/Ensenble) is a graduate of Columbia College Chicago where she earned her degree in Broadcast Journalism with an interdisciplinary major in Television. She has been in numerous shows displaying her talents and performing on stage. Her most recent stage credits include performing with The Black Ensemble Theatre in “Somebody 6 Congo Square Theatre Company
Say Amen”, and “The Other Cinderella” as Cinderella. She has also displayed her talents with Theatre at the Center (TATC) in “The Wiz” and she has also performed at The Illinois Theatre Center in “Intimate Apparel”. Candace is continuing to grow and perfect her craft. She thanks God everyday for her talents. This is Candace’s first performance with Congo Square and she is so excited and blessed beyond measure to be a part of “The Nativity”. She thanks her family for their undying love, and support! Thank you. JAZELLE MORRISS (Athalia/Ensemble) Jazelle Morriss is excited to be joining the cast of The Nativity. Following her love for theater, she has been apart of performances in Germany and Norway with Free Street Theater as well as local productions. Favorite credits include: Pinocchio (Blue Fairy), All Shook Up (Lorraine), The Wiz (Dorothy). She would like to thank God and her family for their love and support. BETHANY THOMAS (Mother of Mary) is so excited to be making her Congo Square debut! Recent credits include: Porgy and Bess (Jeff nomination, BTA nomination) with Court Theatre; Rodgers and Hart: A Celebration (Light Opera Works); She Loves Me (Writers’ Theatre); Sweet and Hot (Jeff nomination), Belle Barth: If I Embarrass You, Tell Your Friends (Jeff nomination), and Cabaret with Theo Ubique; Into the Woods, Once on This Island, Nine (After Dark Award), Ragtime, and In Trousers with Porchlight Music Theatre; Yeast Nation (ATC), Fiorello! (TimeLine), The Life (BTA Award, Jeff nomination) with BoHo, Dessa Rose (Apple Tree); and also work with Lil’ Buds, Emerald City, CCPA, Chicago Dramatists, Bailiwick, and Hell In A Handbag.
B I O G R A P H I E S ( c o n t .) BYRON G. WILLIS (Father of Joseph/ Ensemble) Byron Glenn Willis is excited be apart of this amazing production of The Nativity for the third time around!! He was last seen at the Court Theatre spectacular Jeff Award winning productions of Porgy & Bess and Caroline or Change. Other credits include Once On This Island, Dreamgirls, Treasure Island (Marriott Theatre) Big River, Civil War (Barn Theatre), The Buddy Holly Story (Drury Lane Oakbrook Theatre), Dessa Rose (Apple Tree Theatre), Purlie (Goodman Theatre/Pasadena Playhouse), Ragtime (Light Opera Works), My Heart Is Crying, Crying -The Jackie Wilson Story, Sensational Soulful 60’s, Doo Wop Shoo Bop (Black Ensemble Theatre), Five Guys Named Moe (Drury Lane Evergreen Park), Nefertiti (Deeply Rooted Production), Higher Ground (Human Race Theatre), European Tour of Hair (Scala Theatre Co). Film: Barbershop 2, R. Kellys’ Trapped In The Closet, Detroit 1-8-7, Chicago Code and a host of commercials. Byron is a proud member of Actor’s Equity Association and he gives much gratitude to the creative team for this opportunity and special thanks to Daniel, Jaret & Ilesa. “I Thank the Creator of All for All!” VICTORIA BRADY (Friend of Mother/ Ensemble) Victoria is the Founder and President of Ray of Hope Center of the Arts. She is a Minister, Arts Activist, Humanitarian, Playwright, Singer, and Artistic Director. She attended Columbia College and holds a B.A. in Music/Theatre. She also holds a Masters of Business Administration Certificate from The University of Chicago at Illinois and B.A. in Biblical Studies from the International College of Bible Theology. She is a founding Board Member of ABJ Community Services, Inc, which is one of Chicago’s most effective social service organizations. ABJ was founded by her
mother Dr. Vivian R. Jones and named in memory of her grandmother, Annie B. Jones. She is currently pursuing a Master of Arts degree in Applied Professional Studies at DePaul University. Victoria is a power house singer who has performed locally, nationally, and internationally. She has a special love and passion for theatre. She has appeared in, written and directed numerous plays including “The Wiz,”“Dreamgirls” (national tour), “Mama Said There’d Be Days Like This,” and “Black Nativity” as well as others. Among her directorial credits are “The Great Nitty Gritty,”“The Wiz,”“The Wiz Vs Scrooge,”“That’s Love,”“Pieces of a Shattered Dream,”“To Be Young Gifted and Black,” and “Blair’s Story” – The Story of Blair Holt. “Blair’s Story,” which was written by Victoria and youth members of Ray of Hope Center of the Arts, is based on facts surrounding the murder of Blair Holt, a Chicago teen killed on a CTA bus while returning home from school. The story focuses on the need for stricter gun laws. Victoria is grateful for her husband and family’s support. She is thrilled to return to Congo Square Theatre’s The Nativity this year. To God Be the Glory, Forever. JOELLE LAMARRE (Aunt Elisabeith/ Ensemble) Joelle Lamarre, successfully completed a recent run of Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess with Chicago’s Court Theater. The Chicago Daily Herald gives “kudos… to Joelle Lamarre, whose gorgeous voice gets an all-toobrief showcase during the exquisite street vendors’ serenade.” She’s has also completed a European tour of Porgy and Bess with the NY Harlem Production where Ms. Lamarre performed for audiences in Switzerland, Germany, Spain, and Italy and received favorable reviews for her role of Serena and Lily. She was highly praised in the February 2010 issue of the Chicago Magazine as a “young Leontyne Price.” You can see Joelle in recital February 27, The Nativity 7
B I O G R A P H I E S ( c o n t .) 2012 at the Chicago Cultural Center and June 1, 2012 at the Fourth Presbyterian Church on Michigan avenue. JON PIERCE (Wiseman/Soldier/ Ensemble) Jon Pierce is excited to return to Congo Squares production of the nativity. Jon is a native of chicago’s south side. He has been force in Chicagos Music and theater scene. His theater credits include The WIZ, Dreamgirls, Home The Musical, Dont Shed A Tear (The story of Billy Holiday), Get Ready and Memphis Soul . Jon is currently working on his debut album a project very close to his heart set for release in Feb 2012 ..Jon would like to send love to a wonderful cast and crew, Congo square for always producing extrodinary theater, and to my family and friends for your love and support. ERIC LEWIS (Wiseman./Soldier/ Ensemble) Eric A. Lewis hails from Chicago where he sang his first solo at the age of four; that was the beginning of his performance/ ministry career. Eric sang with choirs & groups including The Soul Children of Chicago. Learning gymnastics led to formal dance training. Eric has danced with with Wave of Glory, Endure Productions, Studio One Dance Theater, and Deeply Rooted and Acrodramance Theatre Company. STEVEN PERKINS (Wiseman/Soldier/ Ensemble) Steven is thrilled to be doing his first show with Congo Square theatre. He was most recently
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seen in Passing Strange with Bailiwick Chicago as Youth. Some of his other credits include Roger in Grease, Jesus in Godspell, Lysander in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and he is currently an understudy for The South Side of Heaven at Second City. He would like to thank God for this opportunity, his mother for her continued support, and you for coming to support live theatre. “Merry Christmas Y’all!” A’RESE EMOKPAE (Female Understudy) A’rese Emokpae is thrilled to be part of The Nativity’s ensemble. An artist and all-around performer, she discovered her passion for all facets of theater in college --including dance, singing, and acting-- and began training in all three while earning her B.A. in Fine Arts. Other Chicago credits include: Rev. Lee (Black Ensemble Theater), See What You Believe as part of Links Hall’s LinkUp Residency, and The Fabulous Adventures of... with Matter Dance Company. DAVID ROBBINS (Male Understudy) David, a Chicago native, is elated to be making his Congo Square debut in The Nativity. David attended Baldwin Wallace CollegeConservatory of Music and The Chicago Academy for the Arts High School for Musical Theatre. Credits include; Andrew Lloyd Webbers’ Phantom of the Opera-Regional Premier (M.Reyer), The Wiz (Royal Gatekeeper) Cain Park, Dreamgirls (Frank) Cain Park, Parade (Newt Lee) and Lippa’s The Wild Party(Orgasmic Man). David would like to thank his Mother and Family for their continued support.
BAND MICHAEL WEATHERSPOON (percussionist) Michael has been featured on over 90 gospel, jazz and r & b records to date and has produced a dozen records under the company spoonfed productions. also doing live performances in italy, belguim, germany, sicily and switzerland and performing live with the likes of donald lawrence, kim burrell, karen clark-sherd, phil tarver and carl thomas. michael is excited to be back on his 3rd stint with congo square theater working on the black nativity. KORY NERO (Bass Player) This is Kory’s second year with The Nativity. He is known for innovative bass playing at Valley Kingdom (Universal
Music Group). Ministry International and for his work with the 2009 Stellar Award Winning Shekinah Glory Ministry. Nero’s distinct bass sound enhances the Gold Status CD Shekinah Glory Live and Shekinah Glory Ministry’s third project Jesus. In addition to his personal studies including a semester at Columbia College (Chicago), Nero studied the works of Victor Wooten, Marcus Miller, John Patitucci, and other world renowned bass players. Countless hours spent learning theory and perfecting his gift, bred a high level of creativity and a sound all his own. His unique style created opportunity to travel the United States and abroad; including Sao Paulo, Brazil.
P R O D U C T I O N T E A M ( c o n t .) JARET WILLIAMS (Musical Director/ Composer) is excited to be working with Congo Square Theatre Company again. The winner of the BTAA Duke Ellington Award for Best Musical Direction in 2009, his compositions and arrangements have been performed and recorded by artist in multiple genres throughout the world. Landon has Bachelor and Master degrees in both Music Performance and Music Education. He wishes to congratulate the cast and production team on a wonderful show. KEVIN IEGA JEFF (Choreographer) Choreographer, Director, Community Builder/Co-Founder/Artistic Director Deeply Rooted Dance Theater Kevin Iega Jeff began studying dance formally at age thirteen. He trained at the Bernice Johnson Cultural Arts Center, New York City’s High School for the Performing Arts, Darvash Ballet School, and the Alvin Ailey American Dance Center before matriculating into The Juilliard School. As a dancer he has been praised for his technical
brilliance and rigor, his dramatic power, and the singular ability to perform and bridge different dance forms in a seamless manner, whether it be ballet, modern, contemporary, or African American dance. At the age of twenty one, Iega founded his first company, JUBILATION! Dance Company in New York City. JUBILATION! was created out of a need to provide a forum for African-American artists to be nurtured holistically through the arts. For ten years the company toured nationally and internationally, helping to bring the stories, histories, and art of the African American people as well as his unique approach to contemporary dance to a global audience. While continuing to perform as a dancer, it was at JUBILATION! that Iega began his life long pursuit of both choreographing new work and directing a company that would train a new generation of dancers and choreographers. In 1994, he left New York to take up an appointment as Artistic Director of the Joseph Holmes Chicago Dance Theater. In 1995, he co-founded Deeply Rooted Productions in Chicago where he continues to serve today as Artistic Director. As a choreogThe Nativity 9
P R O D U C T I O N T E A M ( c o n t .) rapher, Iega has created more than fifty works, ranging from solos to large-scale company dances, where he pushes contemporary dance to take cognizance of different voices and aesthetics. He primarily creates for Deeply Rooted, but also continuously receives commissions by other companies to create new works for them, such as the Alvin Ailey Dance Ensemble, River North Dance Company, Dallas Black Dance Theater, the Cleveland Contemporary Dance Theater, Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Ensemble, and the Wylliams/Henry Danse Theatre. In 2005, Iega was named as one of the Juilliard School’s 100 Outstanding Alumni in celebration of the school’s centenary anniversary. Among his other awards are those from the National Endowment for the Arts, the National Council for Culture and Arts, and the BTAA Best Choreography award for Church of Nations. He received a Merit Award from the International Association of Blacks in Dance, and joined their Board in January 2006. Most recently, Iega was awarded the 2009 Chicago Dance Makers Forum Grant to support the creation of I Am Deeply Rooted, which premiered in the Spring of 2010. Iega has served as artist-in-residence at Howard University, the University of Las Vegas, Goucher College, SUNY Purchase and at Purdue University’s Black Cultural Center. His work has been featured in several films, including Spike Lee’s She’s Gotta Have It, and in the Broadway shows Comin’ Uptown and The Wiz. Iega’s Walls premiered at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, GA. In 2003, Iega and Deeply Rooted Dance Theater Associate Artistic Director Gary Abbott co-choreographed Jagged Ledges, featuring Tony Award-winning spoken word artist Staceyann Chin. In 2006, he and Abbott were commissioned to choreograph Three Brazilian Dances for the Chicago Sinfonietta, which premiered at Chicago’s Symphony Hall. As Iega reflects on fifteen years at Deeply Rooted, he states: “I want my work to grow truer, more focused, and relevant over time. My art is born out of human examination, and my desire to com10 Congo Square Theatre Company
municate authentically informs what I create. For me dance is a perfect catalyst. It reveals the inner voice, reflecting who we are and who we strive to become.” RAZOR WINTERCASTLE (Stage Manager) Razor has worked in the Chicago area, Europe, Asia and all over the place with various theatre companies, bands, concerts, you name it. It is a pleasure to work with Congo Square. Stay Sharp SHARLET WEBB (Assistant Stage Manager) Sharlet Webb (Assistant Stage Manager) Ms Webb is delighted to return to Congo Square. Previous Congo Square credits include: The Colored Museum, The Nativity 2010, and Brothers of the Dust. Congo is a part of her extended theater family. An Artistic Associate with MPAACT she has stage managed numerous shows throughout the Chicagoland area since 1995. She has also worked with The Theatre Building Chicago “If Trane was here” a tribute to John Coltrane featuring Savion Glover. Dusable Museum with Taj Mahal and Eartha Kitt. At eta creative arts foundation, “Home the musical, “Louie and Ophelia” and many others during the 2005 – 2007 seasons. Ivanhoe Theater the Jeeves series with City Lit Theatricals, Live Bait theatricals “What Cops Know” which was also performed live on Radio where she stepped in as radio director, featuring Charles Durning. Ms Webb is a consummate theater professional she wishes to thank her family for their support. Ms Webb is a proud graduate of Columbia College with a B.A. in Technical Theater. NICOLE SPRINGER (Co-Choreographer) Nicole Clarke Springer began her training under the guidance of Claudette Soltis (Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo) of the Joliet Ballet Society, Indianapolis Ballet Theater, Milwaukee Ballet and Western Michigan University. Nicole then received her B.S. in Arts Administration-Dance from Butler University in Indianapolis, IN. As a member of Deeply Rooted Dance Theatre, Nicole had the
P R O D U C T I O N T E A M ( c o n t .) opportunity to perform with artists such as Roberta Flack and Jennifer Holiday. As well as perform in Minnesota based Penumbra Theatre’s Black Nativity. Currently, she is Summer Intensive Program Director for Deeply Rooted and has had the honor of setting two pieces (NINE and DOUNIA) for the company as well as ballet instructor for Studio One Children’s Dance Theatre. As an instructor and choreographer, Nicole works to create an environment that is challenging yet inspiring-helping each dancer find their spiritual connection with the work and most importantly themselves. Many of her pieces are from the female perspective and the empowerment of women ANDRE ONEGIN (Set Designer) Andrei is happy to be back and design the set for Black Nativity. Last two seasons he designed Colored Museum and Brothers of the dust (BTTA nomination for best set design) at the Congo Square. His other work in Chicago has included designing sets for Radio Golf, The Cherry Orchard, Death of a Salesman (Jeff Awards nomination for best production) and Hedda Gabler (Raven), Cat’s Cradle (Lifeline), Princess Club, The Balloon Man and The Golden Truffle (Redmoon), Unsung Stars (Moving Dock), The Day of Knowledge (Stage Left), Hamlet (Yamaworks), Flood and Rosmersholm (Alchimia). During the last 30 years of Andrei’s theater career he has participated in and accomplished more than 110 productions, and worked for such legendary companies as Moscow Art Theater, Kabuky and Comédie-Française. He received his MFA in 1992 from The Moscow Art Theater School. CASEY DIERS (Lighting Designer) Recent Chicago lighting design credits include Boojum (Caffeine Theatre), Pretty Ballet (Joffrey Ballet), What Once We Felt(About Face Theatre), and Tad in the 5th City [BTAA Award Nomination] (MPAACT);
associate lighting designer for The Farnsworth Invention (Timeline); and assistant lighting designer for Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 25th Anniversary Concerts (Madison Square Garden), Kafka on the Shore (Steppenwolf ) and Kafka Fragments (Lincoln Center, Inc). Casey is an Artistic Associate of Caffeine Theatre. For more information visit: www.CaseyDiers.com RICK SIMS (Sound Designer/Composer) Rick is an artistic associate of Lookingglass Theatre Company and an associate designer with Aria Music Designs (Ray Nardelli and Josh Horvath). Sound Design and Composer credits include: Trust , Icarus, Brothers Karamazov and Wooden Breeks at Lookingglass; Picnic at Writers Theatre; Gary at Boston Playwrights/ Steppenwolf, Huck Finn and A Separate Peace at Steppenwolf; Colored Museum (BTAA nomination), Sanctified, St James Infirmary, Talented Tenth(BTAA nomination) and Black Nativity at Congo Square; Company, The Hostage, Be More Chill and Little Brother at Griffin; True West/ Top Dog Underdog Rep and Welcome To Arroyo’s at American Theatre Company; Caroline or Change at Court Theatre, Hollowlands at Steep Theatre, 12 Angry Men at Raven Theatre, Sweet Charity, Goodbye Girl at Drury Lane; The Attempters and the Magnificents at House Theatre; Wedding Play at About Face; Four Places at Victory Gardens; Icarus at the Getty in L.A. w Lookingglass. Other Credits: Rick also wrote the book, music and lyrics for Lookingglass’ Hillbilly Antigone. He also composed music for Up Against It, Vanishing Twin, Her Name Was Danger and West for Lookingglass. MICHAEL ALAN STEIN (Costume Designer) has been an acclaimed award winning Costume/Clothing Designer for several years. Michael started his career in New York City where he attended PARSON’S SCHOOL OF DESIGN and THE FASHION INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY. Mr. Stein has been noted for his Fantastic designs and exciting use of color. He has designed for many of this nations’ premiere Theatres, they include: The Goodman , Steppenwolf , Victory GarThe Nativity 11
B I O G R A P H I E S ( c o n t .) den’s, Black Ensemble, and ETA Theatres in Chicago; The Dallas Repertory Theatre; The Ford’s Theatre, The Arena Stage, and The Kennedy Center For The Performing Arts in Washington D.C.; The Pittsburg Public Theatre, Center Stage Baltimore; The Long Wharf Theatre, New Haven; The Sacramento Theatre Co., and The Guthrie and Pantages Theatres in Minneapolis. His costumes have graced many of today’s leading entertainers: ANGELA BASSETT, ROBERT TOWNSEND,JENNIFER HOLLIDAY, MELBA MOORE, FELICIA FIELDS, HEATHER GRAHAM, JERRY O’CONNELL,JANE SEYMOUR,WHITNEY HOUSTON and ERYKAH BADU amongst them. Mr. Stein is also an accomplished Costume Designer of feature films. He recently designed the anticipated film THE TRUTH, directed by noted actor HILL HARPER (CSI,NEW YORK), in his directorial debut. Further, Michael is recognized for his innovative restaurant uniform designs, doing so for the internationally known restaurant group, LETTUCE ENTERTAIN YOU ENTERPRISES. In the Fall of 2009, Michael debuted his well received clothing line, THE MICHAEL ALAN STEIN COLLECTION. Thanks to Daniel and the CONGO SQUARE THEATRE Family. SAMANTHA JONES (Costume Coordinator) Samantha C. Jones (Costume Coordinator) is glad to be spending another holiday season with Congo Square and The Nativity, where she previously worked as a design assistant. As a Costume Designer her work has been seen at American Blues Theatre (Waiting for Lefty, Rantoul & Die,
places to wine & dine before or after the show For advertising opportunities, call 888.376.3700.
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12 Congo Square Theatre Company
It’s a Wonderful Life: Live at the Biograph!) 16th Street Theatre (Menorca, Fires in the Mirror, Unveiled, and The End of the Tour), Chicago Dramatists (Hickorydickory, Jade Heart), Remy Bumppo Theatre Co. (American Ethnic, Heroes, Night and Day), Peninsula Players Theatre (A Day in Hollywood/A Night in the Ukraine, Wait Until Dark, Around the World in 80 Days, Heroes, Over the Tavern), Congo Square Theatre (Brothers of the Dust, A Colored Museum BTAA nominated for Best Costume Design), and Florida Studio Theatre. Her work can also be seen in American Blues It’s a Wonderful Life: Live at the Biograph! and Blizzard ‘67 with Chicago Dramatists. ANDRE ROBINSON (Production Manager) Dre Robinson is always happy to work with Congo Square. “Its like hanging out at Grandmothers house for Thanksgiving” The native Chicagoan says. A veteran of theatre, Dre has been blessed to have worked all over the world, doing what he loves to do. He has toured with Second City and Black Ensemble Theatre and has worked with some of the top theatrical companies in Chicago, including The Goodman Theater. In his spare time he is busy writing, directing, and producing with his company’s Studio One Productions & The Dreamfactory JESSE GAFFNEY (Properties Design) Jesse is excited to be back with Congo Square after designing props for Brothers of the Dust earlier this year. Elsewhere in Chicago she is artistic associate at 16th Street and has worked with Silk Road, Apple Tree, Marriot Lincolnshire, A New Leaf, Steep, Chicago Children’s, Piven and Noble Fool Theatre Companies among others. Outside of Chicago Jesse worked for Allenberry Playhouse in Boiling Springs, PA, Stages St. Louis, and The Arrow Rock Lyceum in Arrow Rock, MO. Jesse is a St Louis native and an Illinois Wesleyan graduate. Thanks and love to Warwick.
DONORS Legacy Donor $10.00 - $99 B.F. Hartfield Danny Goldrign Diane Dorsey Elizabeth Kubicki Lillian J. Fleming M.M. Smith Maua Y. Behm Nia Crawford Patricia Joseph Ruben Echols Alita Tucker Anita Marshall Sandra M. Shakoor Timothy Russell Susan Ward Wininfred French April Linton Stephen Blessman Jennifer Bienemann Barry Axler Tamberla L Perry Suzanne Griffith Carolyn J Grantham Jeanette Cummings Daniel Goldring Candice Johnson Rena Prizant D’Andrea Crossley Lilli Annie Brown Brenda A Fondren Joyce J Fountain Ceyanna N Dent Larry Young Chad Walker Wilda Belk Julia Bussell Gloria A. Bond (Clunie) Tessa Craib-Cox Angelique A. David Timothy E. Douglas Jacqueline Frazier Dietrich Klevorn Susan Leitao Charles Leonard Merrina Millsapp Kathy Perkins Mr. William Ponder Ms. Phyllis M. Smith Gail Spann Lisa Thompson
Mr. Alfred Wilson Mr. and Mrs. Cedric Young Margo V. Brooks-Pugh Mr. and Mrs. Martin P. Greene Marilyn A. Jackson Ms. Karen Page Legacy Builder $100 - $199 Allen Gilmore Anthony & Deanna Irons Barry Axler Cheryl Monroe Cree Rankin Peter Ellis Ron OJ Parson Munson Steed Katie Seeman Kathy Perkins Arlene McFadden Oscar and Venus Johnson Fatima Aliu Stephen Spencer Timothy Kincaid Brian Booker Darrell Hackett YORR Consulting Group Deborah Williams Dionna Irons Brenda A Russell Judith A Cothran Ernest W Torain James A Alexander Hugh K Williams Marilyn Richards Jackson Roosevelt Haywood III Suzanne C Connor Michael Adrian Hunter Ularsee Manar Tynia Burton Carol and Daniel Cyganowski Sylvia Ewing Rosalind H. Marchand Becky Tousey Ularsee Manar C. L Brown Suzanne Griffith Roosevelt Haywood III
Keisha Hooks Dorri McWhorter Barbara Mills Natalie Moore Stephanie Park Ronald Primeau Tekla Syers Sidney A. Thomas Yvonne Z. Washington Beth Weis Legacy Member $200 - $499 Albert Goodman Bruce Baker Camerson & Kathrine Williams Harold D. McRae Karen Page Micheal & Pamela Orr Oscar & Venus Johnson Paul & Dedrea Gray Sharon A. Giles TG Vanzandth Inc The Hollins Group Keith McGrebory Tony Gleen Nancy Timmers Donald Stewart Eric Reeves Edward C Lampley Lorraine Forte Neva McGee Osse September Gray Mrs. Gertie Wooten Phillip Grant Lauren Robinson Lydia R Diamond Mr. and Mrs. Kubicki Janice Corley-Blaney Hugh K. Wiliams Craston Artis II Michael Becker R. Edward Bergmark Mr. and Mrs. Leo N. Franklin Anthony Irons Jonna Mogab Ami McReynolds Tyron K. Patton Monica G. Walker Michael Weaver The Nativity 13
D O N O R S ( c o n t .) Legacy Circle $500 - $999 Lamont & Paulette Change Marc Brooks Ropes & Gray LLP John Sable Bank of America Kevann Cooke Mr. and Mrs. Edward Ford The W. Lucas Group, Inc. Melinda McMullen Tom Purpura Mr. Bruce Sagan
Legacy Maker $1000 - $5000 Allstate Amina Dickerson Deborah Bricker Gray Financial Group Illinois Tool Works James and Mary Bell Jesse Wardlow Juanita Vanoy Jordan Les Coney Mesirow Financial Michael & Lori Hughes
C O N G O S Q UA R E B OA R D O F D I R E C TO R S Amer Abdullah Les Coney Amina Dickerson Ron DeNard Tony Glen Eric Grant September Gray Suzanne Griffith Ahmad Islam Oscar Johnson Keith McGregory Ami McReynolds Tyrone Stoudemire Veronica-Anderson Thigpen Jesse Wardlow Ron Whitley Hugh Williams James Wooten FRIENDS OF CONGO Robin Beaman Sylvia Ewing Torri Johnson Vanessa Lanier Kirk Townsend
14 Congo Square Theatre Company
Dr.Jesse Wardlow Glen Mckeown James Wooten William Sharp Lisa Moultrie September Gray Melinda McMullen Exelon Corporation Daniel Bryant Veronica Anderson Glen McKeown
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