THE NEW BLACK FEST'S HANDS UP: 7 PLAYWRIGHTS, 7 TESTAMENTS

Hertz Stage
Recommended for audiences 14+
Enhanced Safety Procedures

Directed by Keith Arthur Bolden and Alexis Woodard

Across seven monologues written by seven Black playwrights, HANDS UP depicts the realities of Black America from the perspective of varying genders, sexual orientations, skin tones, and socioeconomic backgrounds. The play was originally commissioned in 2015 by the New Black Fest in response to a police officer fatally shooting an unarmed Black teenager, Michael Brown in Ferguson, MO. The themes and stories it tells still ring true today. HANDS UP is produced in association with Spelman College.​

This performance is approximately one hour and forty-minutes with no intermission, and contains haze, adult content and language, racial violence, domestic abuse, and sexual abuse.

COVID safety protocols:

Safety for our patrons, artists, and staff is our top priority. With safety in mind and in close consultation with local health experts, the Alliance will require all audience members for our upcoming productions of DARLIN’ CORY and HANDS UP to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 at the time of their performance and show proof of vaccination upon arrival. Unvaccinated audience members must show a negative COVID test for entry. Learn more about our safety policies here.

In partnership with:    splogotagblk.png

Presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc.

The collection includes:
Superiority Fantasy by Nathan James; Holes in My Identity by Nathan Yungerberg; They Shootin! Or I Ain’t Neva Scared… by Idris Goodwin; Dead of Night… The Execution of… by Nambi E. Kelley; Abortion by Nsangou Njikam; Walking Next to Michael Brown by Eric Holmes; and How I Feel by Dennis Allen II

Talkback Series made possible by:  

Special support for this production is provided by:
The Reiser Atlanta Artists Lab, Ms. Ellen Arnovitz, Mr. and Mrs. Joel Arogeti, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Arogeti, Mr. and Mrs. Laurence Bagen, Mr. and Mrs. Barry N. Berlin, Mr. Brandon Bush, Mr. Rob Cleveland and Ms. Mary Lynn Owen, Venessa Collins, Mr. and Mrs. David E. Dermer, Enid & Jerry Draluck, Scott Eisenberg, Mrs. Melanie F. Fine, Ms. Amy S. Gellins, Ms. Suzy Goldman, Joy Jernigan, Eydie Koonin, Debbie Kuniansky, Robin Lazarus, Ms. Donna R. Maslia, Mr. and Mrs. Todd Maziar, Mr. Christopher Moses and Ms. Brittany Loffert, Debbie & Lon Neese, Rosemary Newcott, Mr. and Mrs. Howard D. Palefsky, Topher Payne, Mr. and Mrs. Howard Peterson, Ms. Renae M. Popkin, Mr. Jay C. Constantz and Mr. Doyle C. Reynolds, Mr. and Mrs. Mark Rosenberg, Susan Timna, Pamela L. Tinter, Ms. Amanda Watkins, and Ms. Caitlin Way

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Production Photos

Rehearsal Photos

Hertz Stage

Hertz Stage view during The Whipping Man

The Alliance Theatre's Hertz Stage is a modern, 200-seat Black Box theatre. This versatile facility accommodates a number of distinct stage layouts.

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Writer

Dennis Allen II
Dennis Allen II
"How I Feel"
Idris Goodwin
Idris Goodwin
"They Shootin! Or I Ain't Neva Scared..."
Eric Holmes
Eric Holmes
"Walking Next to Michael Brown"
Nathan James
Nathan James
"Superiority Fantasy"
Nambi E. Kelley
Nambi E. Kelley
"Dead of Night... The Execution of..."
Nsangou Njikam
Nsangou Njikam
"Abortion"
Nathan Yungerberg
Nathan Yungerberg
"Holes in My Identity"

Director

Born and raised in Los Angeles, California, Keith Arthur Bolden is a multi-talented artist who has been recently featured in some of the hottest shows on television. He has worked on both coasts, but calls Atlanta home. Keith Arthur is a professor of Theatre at the prestigious Spelman College in Atlanta, GA. He received his MFA in Acting from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. After graduation, he cut his teeth in every major acting market in the US, including: New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Minneapolis/St. Paul. He then set his sights on Atlanta, taking the city by storm and making major inroads with all of the notable casting directors in town. He is represented by Atlanta Models and Talent, but he is not hard to find...just turn on your TV... Keith is a husband and a father to 3 beautiful sons.

Keith Arthur Bolden
Keith Arthur Bolden
Co-Director

Born and raised in Los Angeles, California, Keith Arthur Bolden is a multi-talented artist who has been recently featured in some of the hottest shows on television. He has worked on both coasts, but calls Atlanta home. Keith Arthur is a professor of Theatre at the prestigious Spelman College in Atlanta, GA. He received his MFA in Acting from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. After graduation, he cut his teeth in every major acting market in the US, including: New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Minneapolis/St. Paul. He then set his sights on Atlanta, taking the city by storm and making major inroads with all of the notable casting directors in town. He is represented by Atlanta Models and Talent, but he is not hard to find...just turn on your TV... Keith is a husband and a father to 3 beautiful sons.

Alexis K. Woodard is an Atlanta-based Director, proud Spelman College Alumna and current Spelman Leadership Fellow at the Alliance Theatre. Her Directing Credits include: Romeo + Juliet, Eurydice (Spelman College), Finished What We Started (Morehouse College), Hamlet (The Tiny Theatre Company), as well as assistant directing for the Suzi Award winning play, Hands of Color (Synchronicity Theatre), A Kids Play About Racism (Bay Area Children’s Theatre), and Associate Director for A Christmas Carol: The Live Radio Play, and Working (Alliance Theatre). Upcoming Credits include: Co-Director for Hands Up (Alliance Theatre), Director for Do You Love The Dark (Alliance Theatre), and Assistant Director for A Christmas Carol (The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis). She has also worked backstage on several productions such as Holler If You Hear Me (True Colors Theatre) and Hospice + Pointing At The Moon (Alliance Theatre). Film Credits include: Hands Up Teasers (Co-Director) and When Morning Comes (Writer).

Alexis Woodard
Alexis Woodard
Co-Director

Alexis K. Woodard is an Atlanta-based Director, proud Spelman College Alumna and current Spelman Leadership Fellow at the Alliance Theatre. Her Directing Credits include: Romeo + Juliet, Eurydice (Spelman College), Finished What We Started (Morehouse College), Hamlet (The Tiny Theatre Company), as well as assistant directing for the Suzi Award winning play, Hands of Color (Synchronicity Theatre), A Kids Play About Racism (Bay Area Children’s Theatre), and Associate Director for A Christmas Carol: The Live Radio Play, and Working (Alliance Theatre). Upcoming Credits include: Co-Director for Hands Up (Alliance Theatre), Director for Do You Love The Dark (Alliance Theatre), and Assistant Director for A Christmas Carol (The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis). She has also worked backstage on several productions such as Holler If You Hear Me (True Colors Theatre) and Hospice + Pointing At The Moon (Alliance Theatre). Film Credits include: Hands Up Teasers (Co-Director) and When Morning Comes (Writer).

Cast

Brandon Burditt is honored to be making his debut with the Alliance Theatre alongside his mentor Keith Arthur Bolden. Burditt recently received his MFA in Acting student at the University of Illinois. He got his BFA in Drama at Morehouse College in conjunction with Spelman College. He was most recently seen in A Midsummer's Night Dream and Cymbeline at Montana Shakespeare in the Parks. Past credits include Caesar in Gem of the Ocean directed by Chuck Smith, The Soldier in The Colored Museum (2017), Canewell in Seven Guitars (2015), and Jib in Hoodoo Love (2015). He has written a one-act play honoring survivors of sexual assault titled Interviews which awarded him a grant from Morehouse College. The play has been performed at both Morehouse and Tougaloo College in Missisippi. He is pursuing a teaching career alongside his acting goals. Instagram: @brandonburditt

Brandon Burditt
Brandon Burditt
Ensemble

Brandon Burditt is honored to be making his debut with the Alliance Theatre alongside his mentor Keith Arthur Bolden. Burditt recently received his MFA in Acting student at the University of Illinois. He got his BFA in Drama at Morehouse College in conjunction with Spelman College. He was most recently seen in A Midsummer's Night Dream and Cymbeline at Montana Shakespeare in the Parks. Past credits include Caesar in Gem of the Ocean directed by Chuck Smith, The Soldier in The Colored Museum (2017), Canewell in Seven Guitars (2015), and Jib in Hoodoo Love (2015). He has written a one-act play honoring survivors of sexual assault titled Interviews which awarded him a grant from Morehouse College. The play has been performed at both Morehouse and Tougaloo College in Missisippi. He is pursuing a teaching career alongside his acting goals. Instagram: @brandonburditt

Marlon Andrew Burnley (“Superiority Fantasy”) is a graduate of The University of Georgia where he completed his Master of Fine Arts in Performance. Atlanta Credits include: Red Speedo (Ray), The Royale (Fish), Twelfth Night (Orsino). University of Georgia credits include: Othello, Animal Farm, Titus Andronicus, Skin of Our Teeth, Fires in the Mirror, and Mrs. Packard. Other theatre credits include: The Merry Wives of Windsor, Henry IV, Romeo & Juliet, A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Notre Dame Shakespeare). Original and collaborative works: Black in the Box, Always (K)new, The Encampment of Dr. Moreau.

Marlon Andrew Burnley
Marlon Andrew Burnley
Ensemble

Marlon Andrew Burnley (“Superiority Fantasy”) is a graduate of The University of Georgia where he completed his Master of Fine Arts in Performance. Atlanta Credits include: Red Speedo (Ray), The Royale (Fish), Twelfth Night (Orsino). University of Georgia credits include: Othello, Animal Farm, Titus Andronicus, Skin of Our Teeth, Fires in the Mirror, and Mrs. Packard. Other theatre credits include: The Merry Wives of Windsor, Henry IV, Romeo & Juliet, A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Notre Dame Shakespeare). Original and collaborative works: Black in the Box, Always (K)new, The Encampment of Dr. Moreau.

London Carlisle is excited to be making his Atlanta debut at the Alliance Theatre. An Alabama native, Carlisle graduated from Auburn University with a BFA in Theatre Performance. His Auburn credits include Mr. Burns, Detroit, and Big Fish. Carlisle now splits his time between New York City and Atlanta. He was last seen in I and You at Lewiston's Public Theatre. London is also a gaming content creator and avid player of Dungeons & Dragons. He would like to thank his family and friends for their endless motivation, love, and support. @londoncarlisle

London Carlisle
London Carlisle
Ensemble

London Carlisle is excited to be making his Atlanta debut at the Alliance Theatre. An Alabama native, Carlisle graduated from Auburn University with a BFA in Theatre Performance. His Auburn credits include Mr. Burns, Detroit, and Big Fish. Carlisle now splits his time between New York City and Atlanta. He was last seen in I and You at Lewiston's Public Theatre. London is also a gaming content creator and avid player of Dungeons & Dragons. He would like to thank his family and friends for their endless motivation, love, and support. @londoncarlisle

Sean M. Dale is a classically trained actor based in Atlanta and he is excited to make his Alliance Theatre debut in this incredible show! He earned his MFA in Acting from East 15 Acting School in London and has played roles from William in Lobby Hero to Caliban in The Tempest. He has performed on various stages throughout the UK, including a training residency at Shakespeare's Globe Theatre. As the Artistic Director of Borderless Theatre Company, he has helped produce various plays via the podcast Radio Plays. Off the stage, Sean is fluent in Italian, enjoys tennis, wine tasting, barbershop singing, and, yes, DnD.

Sean M. Dale
Sean M. Dale
Ensemble

Sean M. Dale is a classically trained actor based in Atlanta and he is excited to make his Alliance Theatre debut in this incredible show! He earned his MFA in Acting from East 15 Acting School in London and has played roles from William in Lobby Hero to Caliban in The Tempest. He has performed on various stages throughout the UK, including a training residency at Shakespeare's Globe Theatre. As the Artistic Director of Borderless Theatre Company, he has helped produce various plays via the podcast Radio Plays. Off the stage, Sean is fluent in Italian, enjoys tennis, wine tasting, barbershop singing, and, yes, DnD.

Charence Higgins is a Mississippi native who has had a passion for storytelling as long as she can remember! She holds degrees in Psychology and Theatre from Jackson State University and is a member of the Class of 2021 MFA Acting program at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Most recently she has taken the stage as Lily in Crumbs from the Table of Joy, Escalus in Measure for Measure, and Sarah in Age of Bees in Theatre at Monmouth's 2021 summer season. With Illinois Theatre she's played Black Mary in Gem of the Ocean, Judy in The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, along with several historic roles with the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, DC. She is elated to use her talents to tell thought-provoking stories and continue to inspire future theatre artists.

Charence Higgins
Charence Higgins
Ensemble

Charence Higgins is a Mississippi native who has had a passion for storytelling as long as she can remember! She holds degrees in Psychology and Theatre from Jackson State University and is a member of the Class of 2021 MFA Acting program at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Most recently she has taken the stage as Lily in Crumbs from the Table of Joy, Escalus in Measure for Measure, and Sarah in Age of Bees in Theatre at Monmouth's 2021 summer season. With Illinois Theatre she's played Black Mary in Gem of the Ocean, Judy in The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, along with several historic roles with the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, DC. She is elated to use her talents to tell thought-provoking stories and continue to inspire future theatre artists.

Marcus Hopkins-Turner (“They Shootin’”) is an Atlanta native and Morehouse College graduate. Regional Credits: Prince of Egypt (Tuacahn). Atlanta Credits: Julius Caesar (The Shakespeare Tavern), Tarzan the Musical (Atlanta Lyric Theatre), Once on this Island (Aurora Theatre), Father Comes Home (Actors Express), 1776 (The Legacy Theatre). He is thrilled to return back to the Alliance Theatre.

Marcus Hopkins-Turner
Marcus Hopkins-Turner
Ensemble

Marcus Hopkins-Turner (“They Shootin’”) is an Atlanta native and Morehouse College graduate. Regional Credits: Prince of Egypt (Tuacahn). Atlanta Credits: Julius Caesar (The Shakespeare Tavern), Tarzan the Musical (Atlanta Lyric Theatre), Once on this Island (Aurora Theatre), Father Comes Home (Actors Express), 1776 (The Legacy Theatre). He is thrilled to return back to the Alliance Theatre.

Jessenia Ingram is an actor, writer, and producer from Plano, TX. She graduated from Spelman College in 2019 with a degree in Theatre and Performance and minor in Management and Organization. She recently completed her time as a Spelman Leadership Fellow at the Alliance Theatre. Recent projects include Hamlet (Tiny Theatre Company), The Art of Facing Fear (Os Satyros, Brazil), and A Kids Play About Racism (Bay Area Children’s Theatre). Jessenia has a passion for artivism and using her art as a means to spread love and make change. She gives many thanks to her family, friends, and sisters for their continuous support and love. Follow her @jesseniaingram.

Jessenia Ingram
Jessenia Ingram
Ensemble

Jessenia Ingram is an actor, writer, and producer from Plano, TX. She graduated from Spelman College in 2019 with a degree in Theatre and Performance and minor in Management and Organization. She recently completed her time as a Spelman Leadership Fellow at the Alliance Theatre. Recent projects include Hamlet (Tiny Theatre Company), The Art of Facing Fear (Os Satyros, Brazil), and A Kids Play About Racism (Bay Area Children’s Theatre). Jessenia has a passion for artivism and using her art as a means to spread love and make change. She gives many thanks to her family, friends, and sisters for their continuous support and love. Follow her @jesseniaingram.

Kala Ross is honored to make her Alliance Theatre debut! Kala received her M.F.A. from the University of Louisville, and her bachelor's in theatre from Tennessee State University. She is the recipient of the Irene Ryan National Acting Scholarship. Her recent credits include A Christmas Carol, COVID-Classics, and Fix-it Black Girl (Actors Theatre of Louisville). As a vocalist, she has performed at the Nissan Stadium, Kentucky Yum Center, and the B.E.T. College Tour. Kala would like to recognize her family, friends, Luella High School, and mentor Baron Kelly for their unending support. She encourages all to remember; I can. I will. End of Story. For more information, please visit www.kalaross.com IG: @kalaross

Kala Ross
Kala Ross
Ensemble

Kala Ross is honored to make her Alliance Theatre debut! Kala received her M.F.A. from the University of Louisville, and her bachelor's in theatre from Tennessee State University. She is the recipient of the Irene Ryan National Acting Scholarship. Her recent credits include A Christmas Carol, COVID-Classics, and Fix-it Black Girl (Actors Theatre of Louisville). As a vocalist, she has performed at the Nissan Stadium, Kentucky Yum Center, and the B.E.T. College Tour. Kala would like to recognize her family, friends, Luella High School, and mentor Baron Kelly for their unending support. She encourages all to remember; I can. I will. End of Story. For more information, please visit www.kalaross.com IG: @kalaross

Josh Turner, an Atlanta native, graduated with his BFA in Acting from the Gainesville Theatre Alliance. His desire to tell stories was born at an early age through the influence of his grandfather, Ural Smith Jr. This began an early belief that great stories can change lives and transform hearts. Past credits: Tecumseh in Unto These Hills, Prospero in The Tempest, and Mowgli in The Jungle Book. He is incredibly excited to be a part of The Alliance’s production of Hands Up, and would like to thank his village for always supporting him. Enjoy the show!

Josh Turner
Josh Turner
Ensemble

Josh Turner, an Atlanta native, graduated with his BFA in Acting from the Gainesville Theatre Alliance. His desire to tell stories was born at an early age through the influence of his grandfather, Ural Smith Jr. This began an early belief that great stories can change lives and transform hearts. Past credits: Tecumseh in Unto These Hills, Prospero in The Tempest, and Mowgli in The Jungle Book. He is incredibly excited to be a part of The Alliance’s production of Hands Up, and would like to thank his village for always supporting him. Enjoy the show!

Understudies

A theatre graduate from Georgia Southern University, Brian has appeared in various film and theatre productions including NBC's The Blacklist, The Wizard of Oz, and August Wilson's Joe Turner's Come and Gone. Training under several New York acting companies such as The Producers Club, Actors Connection, and The Barrow Group, Brian has recently relocated to Georgia where he continues to build his craft and experience the amazing talent and creativity Atlanta has to offer.

Brian Joseph
Brian Joseph
Understudy

A theatre graduate from Georgia Southern University, Brian has appeared in various film and theatre productions including NBC's The Blacklist, The Wizard of Oz, and August Wilson's Joe Turner's Come and Gone. Training under several New York acting companies such as The Producers Club, Actors Connection, and The Barrow Group, Brian has recently relocated to Georgia where he continues to build his craft and experience the amazing talent and creativity Atlanta has to offer.

Zuri Petteway is a graduate from Virginia Commonwealth University with a BFA in Theatre. Her family, from Hampton, VA is filled with artists so she has been performing since she was very young. Her credits include The Blackout Company: Chill The Series (Britney), Actor’s Express: Either You Got it or You Don't V. R (Tracey), Serenbe Playhouse’s productions of Hair (Ensemble), The Jungle Book ( Shere Khan), Sleepy Hollow ( Katrina von Tassel), as well as VCU’s productions of  Little Shop of Horrors (Ronette), Spamalot (Ensemble), Legally Blonde (Judge/Shop Manager). While not onstage Zuri enjoys teaching theatre and dance as well as journaling.

Zuri Petteway
Zuri Petteway
Understudy

Zuri Petteway is a graduate from Virginia Commonwealth University with a BFA in Theatre. Her family, from Hampton, VA is filled with artists so she has been performing since she was very young. Her credits include The Blackout Company: Chill The Series (Britney), Actor’s Express: Either You Got it or You Don't V. R (Tracey), Serenbe Playhouse’s productions of Hair (Ensemble), The Jungle Book ( Shere Khan), Sleepy Hollow ( Katrina von Tassel), as well as VCU’s productions of  Little Shop of Horrors (Ronette), Spamalot (Ensemble), Legally Blonde (Judge/Shop Manager). While not onstage Zuri enjoys teaching theatre and dance as well as journaling.

Evan Hill Phillips (US “Holes in My Identity”/”Walking Next to Michael Brown”) is a graduate from Michigan State University with a BFA in Theatre & an Alum of Aurora Theatre’s 2019 Apprentice Company. Evan is also an Associate Artist of the Sense-Ability Ensemble and is currently developing an original musical geared towards neurodiverse audiences. He is thrilled to make his Alliance debut! Previous credits include: Disney's NewsiesThe Legend of Sleepy Hollow, Reindeer Games, The Lawrenceville Ghost Tours (Aurora Theatre), Ellipses (Working Title Playwrights). Water Works (Herschend Family Entertainment), and Nowhere City (Kingdom Entertainment Studios). Lots of love to family & friends for all of their incredible support.

Evan Hill Phillips
Evan Hill Phillips
Understudy

Evan Hill Phillips (US “Holes in My Identity”/”Walking Next to Michael Brown”) is a graduate from Michigan State University with a BFA in Theatre & an Alum of Aurora Theatre’s 2019 Apprentice Company. Evan is also an Associate Artist of the Sense-Ability Ensemble and is currently developing an original musical geared towards neurodiverse audiences. He is thrilled to make his Alliance debut! Previous credits include: Disney's NewsiesThe Legend of Sleepy Hollow, Reindeer Games, The Lawrenceville Ghost Tours (Aurora Theatre), Ellipses (Working Title Playwrights). Water Works (Herschend Family Entertainment), and Nowhere City (Kingdom Entertainment Studios). Lots of love to family & friends for all of their incredible support.

Brandon L. Smith (US “Superiority Fantasy”/”Abortion”; he/him) is delighted to make his debut on the Alliance Theatre stage! Previous credits include: Hair (Serenbe Playhouse), Julius Caesar (Georgia State University), Love & Money (ART Station Theatre), and The Princess and The Frog CH (Clubhouse). He would like to give his greatest thanks to his friends and family for helping him achieve his dreams! Follow him on Instagram @_thebrandonsmith

Brandon L. Smith
Brandon L. Smith
Understudy

Brandon L. Smith (US “Superiority Fantasy”/”Abortion”; he/him) is delighted to make his debut on the Alliance Theatre stage! Previous credits include: Hair (Serenbe Playhouse), Julius Caesar (Georgia State University), Love & Money (ART Station Theatre), and The Princess and The Frog CH (Clubhouse). He would like to give his greatest thanks to his friends and family for helping him achieve his dreams! Follow him on Instagram @_thebrandonsmith

Myles Wright (US “They Shootin’”) is delighted to return to the stages of the Alliance! Recent understudy credits: Ghost (Alliance Theatre). Other recent credits: Preacherman (Trailblazers Collective), Titus Andronicus (Rogue Ensemble), Macbeth (Adirondack Arts), and We Have Standards (No Peeking Theatre). Myles is an actor, writer, and mentor from Atlanta, GA who obtained a degree in Film & Television Performance/Production from The New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts in 2018. Myles also self-published a poetry book last year and is grateful for this beautiful opportunity and for the continued support from his family and friends! He dedicates this and all other appearances to his Grandma. @whereismyleswright

Myles Wright
Myles Wright
Understudy

Myles Wright (US “They Shootin’”) is delighted to return to the stages of the Alliance! Recent understudy credits: Ghost (Alliance Theatre). Other recent credits: Preacherman (Trailblazers Collective), Titus Andronicus (Rogue Ensemble), Macbeth (Adirondack Arts), and We Have Standards (No Peeking Theatre). Myles is an actor, writer, and mentor from Atlanta, GA who obtained a degree in Film & Television Performance/Production from The New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts in 2018. Myles also self-published a poetry book last year and is grateful for this beautiful opportunity and for the continued support from his family and friends! He dedicates this and all other appearances to his Grandma. @whereismyleswright

Creative

Milton Cordero (Projection Designer) has a MA in Film Management and a BA in Communication with a minor in Drama. In film and TV, he worked for Canzion Films, Wiesner Distribution, and CineFiesta Film Festival. Currently he produces a kids TV segment for WIPR. Cordero’s Projection Designs have been seen on stages of New York, Atlanta and Puerto Rico. Favorites credits include: Labzik: Tale of a Clever Pup and The Nether for Emory Theatre (GA), The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time for Aurora Theatre & Horizon Theatre (GA), Tierra Mia for Gibaro de Puerto Rico, El Burlador de Sevilla for Teatro Círculo (NY) 'Voces Latinx' National Playwriting Competition virtual projects for Repertorio Español & the Miranda Family (NY) and In the Heights (PR) www.miltoncordero.com

Milton Cordero (Projection Designer) has a MA in Film Management and a BA in Communication with a minor in Drama. In film and TV, he worked for Canzion Films, Wiesner Distribution, and CineFiesta Film Festival. Currently he produces a kids TV segment for WIPR. Cordero’s Projection Designs have been seen on stages of New York, Atlanta and Puerto Rico. Favorites credits include: Labzik: Tale of a Clever Pup and The Nether for Emory Theatre (GA), The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time for Aurora Theatre & Horizon Theatre (GA), Tierra Mia for Gibaro de Puerto Rico, El Burlador de Sevilla for Teatro Círculo (NY) 'Voces Latinx' National Playwriting Competition virtual projects for Repertorio Español & the Miranda Family (NY) and In the Heights (PR) www.miltoncordero.com

Ryan Bradburn
Ryan Bradburn
Associate Projection Designer

ISABEL CURLEY-CLAY & MORIAH CURLEY-CLAY’s (Scenic Designers) work can be seen on stages around Atlanta as well as on several regional stages. Some favorite recent credits include scenic and costume design for Nobody Loves You, Freed Spirits, and The Toxic Avenger (2016 Suzi Award for Best Costume Design of a Musical) and scenic design for The Cake, Sweet Water TasteHow to Use a KnifeThe City of Conversation, and Sex with Strangers (Horizon Theatre); American Buffalo (Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre); Silent Sky (Theatrical Outfit); Wit and I’m Not Rappaport (Aurora Theatre). Isabel and Moriah are the recipients of four Suzi Bass Awards, are Resident Scenic Designers at Horizon Theatre, Artistic Associates at Theatrical Outfit and members of IATSE, United Scenic Artists 829. Moriah and Isabel are honored to be working with such an incredible cast and collection of artists.

Isabel A. & Moriah Curley-Clay
Isabel A. & Moriah Curley-Clay
Scenic Designers

ISABEL CURLEY-CLAY & MORIAH CURLEY-CLAY’s (Scenic Designers) work can be seen on stages around Atlanta as well as on several regional stages. Some favorite recent credits include scenic and costume design for Nobody Loves You, Freed Spirits, and The Toxic Avenger (2016 Suzi Award for Best Costume Design of a Musical) and scenic design for The Cake, Sweet Water TasteHow to Use a KnifeThe City of Conversation, and Sex with Strangers (Horizon Theatre); American Buffalo (Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre); Silent Sky (Theatrical Outfit); Wit and I’m Not Rappaport (Aurora Theatre). Isabel and Moriah are the recipients of four Suzi Bass Awards, are Resident Scenic Designers at Horizon Theatre, Artistic Associates at Theatrical Outfit and members of IATSE, United Scenic Artists 829. Moriah and Isabel are honored to be working with such an incredible cast and collection of artists.

Jody Feldman began her theater career as an actress in Atlanta before moving into administration as the Assistant General Manager at Frank Wittow’s Academy Theatre. Feldman started her career at the Alliance as Casting Director in 1991, and added Producer to her title and responsibilities in 2001. She has cast and produced more than 200 productions at the Alliance, encompassing a range of world premieres that includes The Last Night of Ballyhoo by Alfred Uhry, What I Learned in Paris by Pearl Cleage, Broke and Troubadour by Janece Shaffer, In the Red and Brown Water by Tarell Alvin McCraney and more than 10 years of Alliance/Kendeda National Graduate Playwriting Competition-winning plays plus such world and regional premiere musicals as Tuck Everlasting; Aida; The Color Purple; Sister Act: The Musical; Bring It On: The Musical; Ghost Brothers of Darkland County; Harmony, A New Musical and The Prom. Jody is most proud of the thriving Alliance engagement activities and partnerships that recognize theatrical work as a catalyst for community conversation and connection.

Jody Feldman
Jody Feldman
Casting

Jody Feldman began her theater career as an actress in Atlanta before moving into administration as the Assistant General Manager at Frank Wittow’s Academy Theatre. Feldman started her career at the Alliance as Casting Director in 1991, and added Producer to her title and responsibilities in 2001. She has cast and produced more than 200 productions at the Alliance, encompassing a range of world premieres that includes The Last Night of Ballyhoo by Alfred Uhry, What I Learned in Paris by Pearl Cleage, Broke and Troubadour by Janece Shaffer, In the Red and Brown Water by Tarell Alvin McCraney and more than 10 years of Alliance/Kendeda National Graduate Playwriting Competition-winning plays plus such world and regional premiere musicals as Tuck Everlasting; Aida; The Color Purple; Sister Act: The Musical; Bring It On: The Musical; Ghost Brothers of Darkland County; Harmony, A New Musical and The Prom. Jody is most proud of the thriving Alliance engagement activities and partnerships that recognize theatrical work as a catalyst for community conversation and connection.

Morgan Hawkins (Movement Consultant) began her dance training at All That Jazz of Charleston under the direction of Virginia White where she was able to compete with Nexstar, Showstoppers, Starpower, and Showbiz National competitions. She has performed with Walt Disney and Royal Caribbean cruise lines. Morgan continued her dance training at Spelman College under the direction of T. Lang. She has had the opportunity to work with UniverSoul Circus (touring), T Lang Dance (Atlanta), and Armada Dance (New York), Atlanta Lyric Theatre, and Independent Artist Playhouse. Ms. Hawkins has choreographed for The National Black Theater Festival, North Carolina Black Rep and Spelman Dance Theater of Spelman College. She is an active judge for Turn It Up Dance competition and is currently earning her MFA in Dance at Montclair State University. She continues to evolve her brand by creating new and innovative ways to express movement through dance.

Morgan Hawkins
Morgan Hawkins
Movement Consultant

Morgan Hawkins (Movement Consultant) began her dance training at All That Jazz of Charleston under the direction of Virginia White where she was able to compete with Nexstar, Showstoppers, Starpower, and Showbiz National competitions. She has performed with Walt Disney and Royal Caribbean cruise lines. Morgan continued her dance training at Spelman College under the direction of T. Lang. She has had the opportunity to work with UniverSoul Circus (touring), T Lang Dance (Atlanta), and Armada Dance (New York), Atlanta Lyric Theatre, and Independent Artist Playhouse. Ms. Hawkins has choreographed for The National Black Theater Festival, North Carolina Black Rep and Spelman Dance Theater of Spelman College. She is an active judge for Turn It Up Dance competition and is currently earning her MFA in Dance at Montclair State University. She continues to evolve her brand by creating new and innovative ways to express movement through dance.

Chris Lane is a Music Producer, Songwriter, DJ, Sound Designer and Audio Engineer for various productions across the nation. Some of his design work and original compositions include Ghost at Alliance Theatre, Four Women and Skeleton Crew at True Color's Theatre Company, Pipeline and The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime at Horizon Theatre, An Octoroon and The Brother's Size at Actor's Express, The 39 Steps and A Christmas Carol at Theatre Buford, Hands of Color at Synchronicity Theatre (GA), Skeleton Crew at Westport Country Playhouse (CT), Too Heavy for Your Pocket at George Street Playhouse (NJ), Four Little Girls and Ruby at Alabama Shakespeare Festival (AL), The Royale and The Children at The Kitchen Theatre Company (NY), Detroit 67’ at Virginia Stage Company (VA), and Incendiary at The Kennedy Center (DC) to name a few. He is also a proud Teaching Artist with Alliance Theatre, Co-Founder at Run Arts LLC, and professional graphic designer with a B.S. in Marketing from the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business. He is a co-founder and current president at Multiband Studios. Check out the amazing production team at www.multibandstudios.com

Chris Lane
Chris Lane
Sound Designer

Chris Lane is a Music Producer, Songwriter, DJ, Sound Designer and Audio Engineer for various productions across the nation. Some of his design work and original compositions include Ghost at Alliance Theatre, Four Women and Skeleton Crew at True Color's Theatre Company, Pipeline and The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime at Horizon Theatre, An Octoroon and The Brother's Size at Actor's Express, The 39 Steps and A Christmas Carol at Theatre Buford, Hands of Color at Synchronicity Theatre (GA), Skeleton Crew at Westport Country Playhouse (CT), Too Heavy for Your Pocket at George Street Playhouse (NJ), Four Little Girls and Ruby at Alabama Shakespeare Festival (AL), The Royale and The Children at The Kitchen Theatre Company (NY), Detroit 67’ at Virginia Stage Company (VA), and Incendiary at The Kennedy Center (DC) to name a few. He is also a proud Teaching Artist with Alliance Theatre, Co-Founder at Run Arts LLC, and professional graphic designer with a B.S. in Marketing from the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business. He is a co-founder and current president at Multiband Studios. Check out the amazing production team at www.multibandstudios.com

Lorenzo Moore
Lorenzo Moore
Sound Designer

Ben Rawson is an Atlanta-based Lighting Designer for Theatre, Opera, and Dance, member USA 829. Theatrical/Opera design work can be seen at The Alliance Theatre, Atlanta Opera, Glimmerglass Opera, Theatrical Outfit, Actors Express, Aurora Theatre, Atlanta Lyric Theatre, 7 Stages, Georgia Ensemble Theatre, Theatre Buford, Weird Sisters Theatre Project, and Synchronicity Theatre. Dance design work includes choreographers Danielle Agami, Ana Maria Lucaciu, and Troy Schumacher as well as Terminus Modern Ballet Theatre, Fly On A Wall, Staibdance, Bluebird Uncaged, Proia Dance Project, and Emily Cargill and Dancers. Ben has also worked across the country as an Associate & Assistant Lighting Designer for San Diego Opera (CA), The Alliance Theatre (GA), Berkshire Theatre Festival (MA), Atlanta Opera (GA), Lyric Opera of Kansas City (MO), Utah Opera (UT), Atlanta Ballet (GA), Palm Beach Opera (FL), and Playmakers Repertory Company (NC). benrawsondesign.com

Ben Rawson
Ben Rawson
LX Designer

Ben Rawson is an Atlanta-based Lighting Designer for Theatre, Opera, and Dance, member USA 829. Theatrical/Opera design work can be seen at The Alliance Theatre, Atlanta Opera, Glimmerglass Opera, Theatrical Outfit, Actors Express, Aurora Theatre, Atlanta Lyric Theatre, 7 Stages, Georgia Ensemble Theatre, Theatre Buford, Weird Sisters Theatre Project, and Synchronicity Theatre. Dance design work includes choreographers Danielle Agami, Ana Maria Lucaciu, and Troy Schumacher as well as Terminus Modern Ballet Theatre, Fly On A Wall, Staibdance, Bluebird Uncaged, Proia Dance Project, and Emily Cargill and Dancers. Ben has also worked across the country as an Associate & Assistant Lighting Designer for San Diego Opera (CA), The Alliance Theatre (GA), Berkshire Theatre Festival (MA), Atlanta Opera (GA), Lyric Opera of Kansas City (MO), Utah Opera (UT), Atlanta Ballet (GA), Palm Beach Opera (FL), and Playmakers Repertory Company (NC). benrawsondesign.com

Pamela Rodríguez-Montero (she/her/ella) is a scenographer, educator, and visual artist from Costa Rica. She earned her BFA degree in Arts and Visual Communications from the National University of Costa Rica and received her MFA in Scenography from The University of Kansas (2017). She was recently named Acting Assistant Professor of Costume Design at The University of California, Santa Cruz. Previously she served as the Assistant Professor of Costume Design at Kennesaw State University 2019-2021. She has also worked as a guest scenographer for Washburn University and guest scenographer and cultural awareness mentor at The University of Central Missouri. Pamela has designed for dance, theatre and devised work in Costa Rica and the United States, including National Theatre for the Dance in Costa Rica, Costa Rica National Theatre, Kansas Rep Theatre, and Theatrical Outfit.  She is honored to make her Alliance Theatre debut with this production. She is the proud recipient of the Ethel Hinds Burch Outstanding GTA in Theatre Award (2014 & 2015) in recognition of her excellence in teaching. She combines her motherwork with her labor as an educator and artist. For more information, please visit her website: https://www.pamelarodriguezmontero.com

Pamela Rodriguez Montero
Pamela Rodriguez Montero
Costume Designer

Pamela Rodríguez-Montero (she/her/ella) is a scenographer, educator, and visual artist from Costa Rica. She earned her BFA degree in Arts and Visual Communications from the National University of Costa Rica and received her MFA in Scenography from The University of Kansas (2017). She was recently named Acting Assistant Professor of Costume Design at The University of California, Santa Cruz. Previously she served as the Assistant Professor of Costume Design at Kennesaw State University 2019-2021. She has also worked as a guest scenographer for Washburn University and guest scenographer and cultural awareness mentor at The University of Central Missouri. Pamela has designed for dance, theatre and devised work in Costa Rica and the United States, including National Theatre for the Dance in Costa Rica, Costa Rica National Theatre, Kansas Rep Theatre, and Theatrical Outfit.  She is honored to make her Alliance Theatre debut with this production. She is the proud recipient of the Ethel Hinds Burch Outstanding GTA in Theatre Award (2014 & 2015) in recognition of her excellence in teaching. She combines her motherwork with her labor as an educator and artist. For more information, please visit her website: https://www.pamelarodriguezmontero.com

Jasmine Williams is an Atlanta-based Artist and Lighting Designer for theater, music, dance, opera, and immersive experiences. After a significant time spent as a Stage Manager, Jasmine transitioned to Lighting and Costume Design. As a Designer and Technician, Jasmine has worked on No Dream Deferred’s debut production of Tarell Alvin McCraney's, In The Red and Brown Water, and Tulane University’s production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. She has also worked with the New Orleans Ballet Association, The Nola Project, and Summer Lyric Theatre at Tulane. She received her Design MFA from Tulane University in 2020, and her BA from Albany State University in 2016. Jasmine continues to collaborate with theaters, companies, directors, choreographers, and visual artists across New Orleans, and plans to build a new network in Atlanta. Jasmine appreciates her mentorship with John ”Ray” Proctor and Kathy Perkins and would like to thank her family, mentors, and friends, for their love, patience, and support.

Jasmine Williams
Jasmine Williams
Associate LX Designer

Jasmine Williams is an Atlanta-based Artist and Lighting Designer for theater, music, dance, opera, and immersive experiences. After a significant time spent as a Stage Manager, Jasmine transitioned to Lighting and Costume Design. As a Designer and Technician, Jasmine has worked on No Dream Deferred’s debut production of Tarell Alvin McCraney's, In The Red and Brown Water, and Tulane University’s production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. She has also worked with the New Orleans Ballet Association, The Nola Project, and Summer Lyric Theatre at Tulane. She received her Design MFA from Tulane University in 2020, and her BA from Albany State University in 2016. Jasmine continues to collaborate with theaters, companies, directors, choreographers, and visual artists across New Orleans, and plans to build a new network in Atlanta. Jasmine appreciates her mentorship with John ”Ray” Proctor and Kathy Perkins and would like to thank her family, mentors, and friends, for their love, patience, and support.

Crew

Haylee Scott
Haylee Scott
COVID Coordinator

Brea Walker is a local Atlanta stage manager and writer. You may have seen her working around theaters like Actor’s Express, Found Stages, and The Fox. She is excited to be making her debut with The Alliance and to be making live theatre again!

Brea Walker
Brea Walker
Stage Manager Production Assistant

Brea Walker is a local Atlanta stage manager and writer. You may have seen her working around theaters like Actor’s Express, Found Stages, and The Fox. She is excited to be making her debut with The Alliance and to be making live theatre again!

R. Lamar Williams is an Atlanta native who studied theatre at Florida A&M University’s Essential Theatre. His 20 year tenure at the Alliance has included stage managing Hospice/ Pointing at the Moon, The Temple Bombing, Choir Boy, Bike America, The Fairytale Lives of Russian Girls,18 years of The Palefsky Collision Project and assistant stage managing a slew of great shows. Rodney is opening a new frontier in his career with Dramaturgy and Directing.  For Sensei, JDawn, Chelsea & Solari and all humanity — “changing the world 1 play @ a time!”

R. Lamar Williams
R. Lamar Williams
Stage Manager

R. Lamar Williams is an Atlanta native who studied theatre at Florida A&M University’s Essential Theatre. His 20 year tenure at the Alliance has included stage managing Hospice/ Pointing at the Moon, The Temple Bombing, Choir Boy, Bike America, The Fairytale Lives of Russian Girls,18 years of The Palefsky Collision Project and assistant stage managing a slew of great shows. Rodney is opening a new frontier in his career with Dramaturgy and Directing.  For Sensei, JDawn, Chelsea & Solari and all humanity — “changing the world 1 play @ a time!”

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