The Preacher's Wife

Coca-Cola Stage
Best enjoyed by audiences 6+
Musical World Premiere
Inspired by the beloved blockbuster film, The Preacher's Wife is a stirring new musical about the power of hope.   

Book by Azie Dungey 
Music & Lyrics by Tituss Burgess 
Directed by Michael Arden and Tinashe Kajese-Bolden
 

In their fast-gentrifying Harlem neighborhood, Preacher Henry and his wife Julia struggle to keep their congregation going in the face of development.  When all seems lost, Henry asks God for help, and receives it in the form of an angel.  But will this mysterious newcomer really help or make matters worse?  Through it all, Julia must find her voice and the strength to lead their congregation through the crisis, reminding them that a church is not a building, but the people who inhabit it and the love they share. Featuring an original score by actor, comedian, and writer Tituss Burgess (TV's Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt) and a book by actress, producer, and writer Azie Dungey (TV's Harlem), The Preacher's Wife is a can't-miss theatrical celebration of community, family, and faith.   
 

Based upon the motion pictures The Bishop’s Wife produced by Samuel Goldwyn; The Preacher’s Wife produced by Samuel Goldwyn, Jr., and the novel The Bishop’s Wife written by Robert Nathan.

Presented by

Invesco QQQ

 

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Special Events

Coca-Cola Stage

Coca-Cola Stage photos by Leonid Flurmansky

The Coca-Cola Stage at Alliance Theatre is a state-of-the-art proscenium theater offering significant enhancements for patrons including an intimate, comfortable, and sound sensitive environment.  

Woodruff Arts Center Parking Garage

Parking is available for $10-$15 in the Woodruff Arts Center Parking Garage, located on Arts Center Way between 15th & 16th Street
Arts Center Transit Station
Atlanta, GA 30309

Woodruff Arts Center

1280 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, GA 30309

Arts Center MARTA Station

Director

Michael Arden (Director) won the 2023 Tony Award for Best Direction for Parade, which will play a national tour in 2024. Michael was also Tony nominated for Once On This Island and Spring Awakening. Michael wrote and directed Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol which played the Nederlander Theatre last Holiday season and starred Jefferson Mays. Michael will soon helm the new Stephen Schwartz and Lindsey Ferrentino musical The Queen of Versailles starring Kristin Chenowith and a new musical adaptation of the cult film The Lost Boys. Other directing credits include: Maybe Happy Ending at the Atlanta Alliance, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat  at Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center, and site specific works: American Dream Study and ALIEN/NATION with his company The Forest of Arden. Arden has been named on Variety’s Impact List and is the winner of an NAACP Award for best direction of his revival of Merrily We Roll Along. In addition to directing theater in America and around the globe, Michael regularly directs “The Connors” on ABC, and has appeared in numerous features and TV shows, most notably: Grey’s Anatomy, Bride Wars, Anger Management, Source Code, and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. On stage, Arden has appeared on Broadway in Big River; The Times, They Are A-Changin’, and King Lear. Arden is a Presidential Scholar in the Arts and alumni of the Interlochen Arts Academy and The Juilliard School. 

Michael Arden
Michael Arden
Director

Michael Arden (Director) won the 2023 Tony Award for Best Direction for Parade, which will play a national tour in 2024. Michael was also Tony nominated for Once On This Island and Spring Awakening. Michael wrote and directed Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol which played the Nederlander Theatre last Holiday season and starred Jefferson Mays. Michael will soon helm the new Stephen Schwartz and Lindsey Ferrentino musical The Queen of Versailles starring Kristin Chenowith and a new musical adaptation of the cult film The Lost Boys. Other directing credits include: Maybe Happy Ending at the Atlanta Alliance, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat  at Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center, and site specific works: American Dream Study and ALIEN/NATION with his company The Forest of Arden. Arden has been named on Variety’s Impact List and is the winner of an NAACP Award for best direction of his revival of Merrily We Roll Along. In addition to directing theater in America and around the globe, Michael regularly directs “The Connors” on ABC, and has appeared in numerous features and TV shows, most notably: Grey’s Anatomy, Bride Wars, Anger Management, Source Code, and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. On stage, Arden has appeared on Broadway in Big River; The Times, They Are A-Changin’, and King Lear. Arden is a Presidential Scholar in the Arts and alumni of the Interlochen Arts Academy and The Juilliard School. 

Tinashe Kajese-Bolden (Director, Alliance Theatre Jennings Hertz Artistic Director) stepped into the role of Artistic Director in 2023 after serving as the Alliance’s BOLD Associate Artistic Director. Tinashe is a 2019 Princess Grace Award Winner for Directing and Map Fund Award recipient to develop her devised new work All Smiles, centering the experience of children on the Autism Spectrum. Most recently, she directed the World Premiere of The Many Wondrous Realities of Jasmine Starr-Kidd. Select directing productions include Toni Stone (co-production Milwaukee Repertory Theater and the Alliance Theatre), School Girls; Or, the African Mean Girls Play (Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre), Ghost (Alliance Theatre), Native Gardens (Virginia Stage Company), Pipeline (Horizon Theater), Nick’s Flamingo Grill (World Premiere at the Alliance Theatre), Eclipsed (Synchronicity Theatre, Best Director Suzi Bass Award). As a director and actor, she has worked on and off Broadway, including The Imperial Theatre, Primary Stages, 59E59 Theatre, Classical Theatre of Harlem; and regionally at Yale Rep, Woolly Mammoth Theater Co, Cincinnati Playhouse, The Geva Theatre, CTG’s Kirk Douglas Theatre, among others, as well as recurring roles on TV/Film (Strays, Suicide Squad 2, Marvel’s Hawkeye, CW’s Valor, Dynasty, HBO’s Henrietta Lacks, Ava Duverney’s Cherish the Day, among others.) She proudly serves on the ArtsATL Artist Advisory Council. “My mission is the pursuit of what connects our different communities and how we create art that serves that.” 
 

Tinashe Kajese-Bolden
Tinashe Kajese-Bolden
Director

Tinashe Kajese-Bolden (Director, Alliance Theatre Jennings Hertz Artistic Director) stepped into the role of Artistic Director in 2023 after serving as the Alliance’s BOLD Associate Artistic Director. Tinashe is a 2019 Princess Grace Award Winner for Directing and Map Fund Award recipient to develop her devised new work All Smiles, centering the experience of children on the Autism Spectrum. Most recently, she directed the World Premiere of The Many Wondrous Realities of Jasmine Starr-Kidd. Select directing productions include Toni Stone (co-production Milwaukee Repertory Theater and the Alliance Theatre), School Girls; Or, the African Mean Girls Play (Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre), Ghost (Alliance Theatre), Native Gardens (Virginia Stage Company), Pipeline (Horizon Theater), Nick’s Flamingo Grill (World Premiere at the Alliance Theatre), Eclipsed (Synchronicity Theatre, Best Director Suzi Bass Award). As a director and actor, she has worked on and off Broadway, including The Imperial Theatre, Primary Stages, 59E59 Theatre, Classical Theatre of Harlem; and regionally at Yale Rep, Woolly Mammoth Theater Co, Cincinnati Playhouse, The Geva Theatre, CTG’s Kirk Douglas Theatre, among others, as well as recurring roles on TV/Film (Strays, Suicide Squad 2, Marvel’s Hawkeye, CW’s Valor, Dynasty, HBO’s Henrietta Lacks, Ava Duverney’s Cherish the Day, among others.) She proudly serves on the ArtsATL Artist Advisory Council. “My mission is the pursuit of what connects our different communities and how we create art that serves that.” 
 

Writer

Tituss Burgess
Tituss Burgess
Music & Lyrics

Azie Dungey (Book) is a WGA-nominated writer and actress who was most recently a Co-Executive Producer on Night Court for NBC. Previously, she was Co-EP on Tina Fey's Girls5eva and consulting-producer on Rutherford Falls, both on NBC/Peacock. Prior to that, she also wrote on Harlem (Amazon), the Emmy-nominated show Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt (Netflix), and on the drama Sweetbitter for PlanB (Starz). She is best known as writer and star of her critically-acclaimed Youtube series Ask a Slave, a satirical critique of race and gender in these here United States with over 2.5 million views, and for which she was featured on NPR, BBC World, MSNBC, New York Magazine, The Washington Post, among others. A graduate of Tisch School of the Arts at NYU in drama, vocal performance, and anthropology, she has been a visiting scholar to Yale, Brown University, Columbia, and was a Fellow-in-Residence at the Center for the Study of Democracy, St Mary’s College. Azie is African American, and Pamunkey/Mattaponi (Powhatan Confederacy of Virginia) and she is committed to confronting issues of race, history, and social injustice with grace, compassion, and humor.

Azie Dungey
Azie Dungey
Book

Azie Dungey (Book) is a WGA-nominated writer and actress who was most recently a Co-Executive Producer on Night Court for NBC. Previously, she was Co-EP on Tina Fey's Girls5eva and consulting-producer on Rutherford Falls, both on NBC/Peacock. Prior to that, she also wrote on Harlem (Amazon), the Emmy-nominated show Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt (Netflix), and on the drama Sweetbitter for PlanB (Starz). She is best known as writer and star of her critically-acclaimed Youtube series Ask a Slave, a satirical critique of race and gender in these here United States with over 2.5 million views, and for which she was featured on NPR, BBC World, MSNBC, New York Magazine, The Washington Post, among others. A graduate of Tisch School of the Arts at NYU in drama, vocal performance, and anthropology, she has been a visiting scholar to Yale, Brown University, Columbia, and was a Fellow-in-Residence at the Center for the Study of Democracy, St Mary’s College. Azie is African American, and Pamunkey/Mattaponi (Powhatan Confederacy of Virginia) and she is committed to confronting issues of race, history, and social injustice with grace, compassion, and humor.

Cast

Wesley J. Barnes (Ensemble) is thrilled to be making his Alliance Theatre debut. LA native-CUI Alum. Favorite credits include Broadway National tour of Mean Girls, the 50th Anniversary National Tour of Jesus Christ Superstar, Kinky Boots, Choir Boy, The Tap Dance Kid, Newsies, Godspell, The Scottsboro Boys, Hairspray, Sophisticated Ladies, In the Heights, etc. When not performing, his passion is put to work as an arts educator, inspiring performers to continue to reach their full potential. To aid this mission Wesley has just found an organization called The MPACT (Mentoring Performing Artists and Curating Talent) Group. Jer 29:11 www.wesleyjbarnes.com 

Wesley Barnes
Wesley Barnes
Ensemble

Wesley J. Barnes (Ensemble) is thrilled to be making his Alliance Theatre debut. LA native-CUI Alum. Favorite credits include Broadway National tour of Mean Girls, the 50th Anniversary National Tour of Jesus Christ Superstar, Kinky Boots, Choir Boy, The Tap Dance Kid, Newsies, Godspell, The Scottsboro Boys, Hairspray, Sophisticated Ladies, In the Heights, etc. When not performing, his passion is put to work as an arts educator, inspiring performers to continue to reach their full potential. To aid this mission Wesley has just found an organization called The MPACT (Mentoring Performing Artists and Curating Talent) Group. Jer 29:11 www.wesleyjbarnes.com 

Brianna Bellamy (Ensemble, u/s Jeremiah, Hakeem) aka Brianna Raquel is excited to be a part of the cast of The Preacher’s Wife. Her credits are: The Color Purple the musical as Celie, Aida the musical as Aida, Seussical the Musical as Gertrude, and Once On This Island as Erzulie, just to name a few. She holds the Lead Thespian title, the most likely to be on Broadway Award, Artist of the Year and The Peer Choice Award, all in the years of 2022-2023 at Rainbow Park Elementary Magnet School, in Miami, Florida. Under the study of Yensina Ozuna, who is now the theater teacher at Martha Ellen Stilwell School of the Arts in Atlanta, Georgia. Brianna is currently enrolled at Utopian Academy Of The Arts, under the mentorship of Ms. Fredena Williams, who is the theater teacher at the school and also a talented opera singer. Brianna, would like to thank her friends and family for always supporting her and shines a big light on her parents for believing in her and supporting her dreams.

Brianna Bellamy
Brianna Bellamy
Ensemble

Brianna Bellamy (Ensemble, u/s Jeremiah, Hakeem) aka Brianna Raquel is excited to be a part of the cast of The Preacher’s Wife. Her credits are: The Color Purple the musical as Celie, Aida the musical as Aida, Seussical the Musical as Gertrude, and Once On This Island as Erzulie, just to name a few. She holds the Lead Thespian title, the most likely to be on Broadway Award, Artist of the Year and The Peer Choice Award, all in the years of 2022-2023 at Rainbow Park Elementary Magnet School, in Miami, Florida. Under the study of Yensina Ozuna, who is now the theater teacher at Martha Ellen Stilwell School of the Arts in Atlanta, Georgia. Brianna is currently enrolled at Utopian Academy Of The Arts, under the mentorship of Ms. Fredena Williams, who is the theater teacher at the school and also a talented opera singer. Brianna, would like to thank her friends and family for always supporting her and shines a big light on her parents for believing in her and supporting her dreams.

Angela Birchett (Ensemble, u/s Marguerite Coleman) [she/her] is over the moon to be a part of The Preacher's Wife at the Alliance! She was last seen on the PaperMill Playhouse stage (Recipient of the 2016 Regional Theater TONY award) in After Midnight and ACT’s (San Francisco) world premiere of Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. Birchett made her Broadway debut with the 2015 Revival of The Color Purple. Other credits include: Hairspray, Dreamgirls, Once On This Island, Rent, Smokey Joe’s Cafe, Ain’t Misbehavin’ and Grease. Television and film highlights include Lifetime’s The Clark Sisters: First Ladies of Gospel, Kirk Franklin’s A Gospel Christmas, and Kevin Can Wait (CBS). @angelabirchett (IG) for more!

Angela Birchett
Angela Birchett
Ensemble

Angela Birchett (Ensemble, u/s Marguerite Coleman) [she/her] is over the moon to be a part of The Preacher's Wife at the Alliance! She was last seen on the PaperMill Playhouse stage (Recipient of the 2016 Regional Theater TONY award) in After Midnight and ACT’s (San Francisco) world premiere of Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. Birchett made her Broadway debut with the 2015 Revival of The Color Purple. Other credits include: Hairspray, Dreamgirls, Once On This Island, Rent, Smokey Joe’s Cafe, Ain’t Misbehavin’ and Grease. Television and film highlights include Lifetime’s The Clark Sisters: First Ladies of Gospel, Kirk Franklin’s A Gospel Christmas, and Kevin Can Wait (CBS). @angelabirchett (IG) for more!

Laila Bollar (u/s Jeremiah, Hakeem) is thrilled to be making her professional theater debut at the Alliance Theatre in Atlanta playing understudy and onstage ensemble in the world premiere production of The Preacher's Wife. Originally from Atlanta, GA, Laila has loved acting, singing, and theater since she was four years old! She trains at Studio 27 Talent, and attended the Mike Beaty Model and Talent Expo in 2023, where she was named Entertainer of the Year! She is thankful to her agent, Susan Wright of Ann Wright Representatives (NY), to Cheryl Harris of Studio 27 (ATL) and for her previous work at The Legacy Theatre, where she performed in The Little Mermaid and Encanto. In her spare time, Laila enjoys time with her younger brother, family and friends. Laila would like to express her gratitude to her parents for their encouragement and support as she continues to pursue her acting career. Visit her at @lailabee2023 on social media.  

Laila Bollar
Laila Bollar
Ensemble

Laila Bollar (u/s Jeremiah, Hakeem) is thrilled to be making her professional theater debut at the Alliance Theatre in Atlanta playing understudy and onstage ensemble in the world premiere production of The Preacher's Wife. Originally from Atlanta, GA, Laila has loved acting, singing, and theater since she was four years old! She trains at Studio 27 Talent, and attended the Mike Beaty Model and Talent Expo in 2023, where she was named Entertainer of the Year! She is thankful to her agent, Susan Wright of Ann Wright Representatives (NY), to Cheryl Harris of Studio 27 (ATL) and for her previous work at The Legacy Theatre, where she performed in The Little Mermaid and Encanto. In her spare time, Laila enjoys time with her younger brother, family and friends. Laila would like to express her gratitude to her parents for their encouragement and support as she continues to pursue her acting career. Visit her at @lailabee2023 on social media.  

Melessie Clark (Ensemble, u/s Monique) is thrilled to join the cast of The Preacher’s Wife at Alliance Theatre! Hailing from Pittsburgh with a B.F.A. in Musical Theatre from Point Park University, Melessie recently made her Off-Broadway debut in A Sign of the Times at New World Stages. Her other credits include PCLO’s Once on This Island (Mama Euralie), Into the Woods (Lucinda), The Wizard of Oz (Glinda), Pittsburgh Public Theatre’s Two Trains Running (Risa), Little Shop of Horrors (Ronnette), School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play (Eloise), and Goddess (Grio Trio) at Berkeley Repertory Theatre. Melessie would love to thank her friends and family for their continuous love and support. “To God be the glory for the things He has done!” Instagram: @melessieclark 

Melessie Clark
Melessie Clark
Ensemble

Melessie Clark (Ensemble, u/s Monique) is thrilled to join the cast of The Preacher’s Wife at Alliance Theatre! Hailing from Pittsburgh with a B.F.A. in Musical Theatre from Point Park University, Melessie recently made her Off-Broadway debut in A Sign of the Times at New World Stages. Her other credits include PCLO’s Once on This Island (Mama Euralie), Into the Woods (Lucinda), The Wizard of Oz (Glinda), Pittsburgh Public Theatre’s Two Trains Running (Risa), Little Shop of Horrors (Ronnette), School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play (Eloise), and Goddess (Grio Trio) at Berkeley Repertory Theatre. Melessie would love to thank her friends and family for their continuous love and support. “To God be the glory for the things He has done!” Instagram: @melessieclark 

Rebecca E. Covington (Beverly) is thrilled to be making her Alliance Theatre debut! Favorite credits include: Peggy Schuyler/Maria Reynolds in Hamilton (National Tour), Janelle Woods in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Broadway & National Tour), Grace Farrell in Annie (Alabama Shakespeare Theatre), Charlayne in Ain’t Misbehavin' (International Tour), Ali in Mamma Mia (National Tour), and ensemble in the Original Broadway Cast of Motown: the Musical! She holds a BM from Belmont University. Thank you to The Preacher’s Wife team and Stewart Talent. To Donald Webber Jr — I love you. For D3 & LZ — our beautiful children. Thank you to my beyond supportive family — mommy is back to work! Isaiah 40:31 Instagram: @RoRoWebb

Rebecca E. Covington
Rebecca E. Covington
Beverly

Rebecca E. Covington (Beverly) is thrilled to be making her Alliance Theatre debut! Favorite credits include: Peggy Schuyler/Maria Reynolds in Hamilton (National Tour), Janelle Woods in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Broadway & National Tour), Grace Farrell in Annie (Alabama Shakespeare Theatre), Charlayne in Ain’t Misbehavin' (International Tour), Ali in Mamma Mia (National Tour), and ensemble in the Original Broadway Cast of Motown: the Musical! She holds a BM from Belmont University. Thank you to The Preacher’s Wife team and Stewart Talent. To Donald Webber Jr — I love you. For D3 & LZ — our beautiful children. Thank you to my beyond supportive family — mommy is back to work! Isaiah 40:31 Instagram: @RoRoWebb

Loretta Devine
Loretta Devine
Marguerite Coleman

In 2020 Cyniah walked onto the national stage of American Idol, where she captured the hearts of not only the judges Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan but also the hearts of America. She made it all the way to the top 20 and was brought back the following season as a fan favorite in the top 10. Since then, she’s appeared in The Wiz, A Chorus Line, Hairspray, and Dreamgirls. Cyniah has gone viral numerous times, most recently for singing “And I Am Telling You,” which has reached over 2 million views and she was given the stamp of approval by Jennifer Hudson herself! Follow @cyniah.elise and stay tuned to her upcoming music release later this year.

Cyniah Elise
Cyniah Elise
Partial Swing

In 2020 Cyniah walked onto the national stage of American Idol, where she captured the hearts of not only the judges Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan but also the hearts of America. She made it all the way to the top 20 and was brought back the following season as a fan favorite in the top 10. Since then, she’s appeared in The Wiz, A Chorus Line, Hairspray, and Dreamgirls. Cyniah has gone viral numerous times, most recently for singing “And I Am Telling You,” which has reached over 2 million views and she was given the stamp of approval by Jennifer Hudson herself! Follow @cyniah.elise and stay tuned to her upcoming music release later this year.

Cedrick Ekra (Partial Swing/Ensemble) [he/him] is positively pumped to join the cast of The Preacher's Wife at the Alliance Theatre! Favorite Credits include: Off-Broadway: Kyle in Here I Am (AMT Theater), Man 1 in Powerline Road (Theatre Now), and Son House in Call Me From The Grave (Jerry Orbach Theater). Regional: Harpo in The Color Purple (Ivoryton Playhouse), Drifter in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Ogunquit Playhouse, and Tuacahn Hafen Theatre), Clarence in The Scottsboro Boys (Playhouse on Park) and Magaldi in Evita (Jean’s Playhouse). Cruise: Icons and Lights, Camera, Music (Norwegian Cruise Line) Film: Male Singer in Whitney Houston’s I Wanna Dance With Somebody. Cedrick would love to thank Renee and Joe, and all his amazing friends for their constant support. Emerson MT ’22. Bisou mama et emanuella. @cedrickekra 

Cedrick Erka
Cedrick Erka
Partial Swing / Ensemble

Cedrick Ekra (Partial Swing/Ensemble) [he/him] is positively pumped to join the cast of The Preacher's Wife at the Alliance Theatre! Favorite Credits include: Off-Broadway: Kyle in Here I Am (AMT Theater), Man 1 in Powerline Road (Theatre Now), and Son House in Call Me From The Grave (Jerry Orbach Theater). Regional: Harpo in The Color Purple (Ivoryton Playhouse), Drifter in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Ogunquit Playhouse, and Tuacahn Hafen Theatre), Clarence in The Scottsboro Boys (Playhouse on Park) and Magaldi in Evita (Jean’s Playhouse). Cruise: Icons and Lights, Camera, Music (Norwegian Cruise Line) Film: Male Singer in Whitney Houston’s I Wanna Dance With Somebody. Cedrick would love to thank Renee and Joe, and all his amazing friends for their constant support. Emerson MT ’22. Bisou mama et emanuella. @cedrickekra 

Alan H. Green (Joe Hamilton) Broadway: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, School of Rock, Sister Act, Play On!. Original Cast Albums include Broadway shows and: The Jerusalem Syndrome, 17 Again, Broadway Bounty Hunter, Freaky Friday, and Carols for a Cure. First National Tours: 25th Annual... Spelling Bee, Swing!, Smokey Joe’s Cafe. International: Miss Saigon (sung in German). PreBroadway: The Karate Kid at Stages St Louis, The GriswoldsBroadway Vacation at Seattle 5th Avenue, AD 16 at Olney Theatre. TV: Almost Family, Unforgettable, Murphy Brown, 30 Rock, Peter Pan Live!, Law & Order SVU, The Guiding Light. Awards: Outstanding Lead Actor in a Musical (Berkie), Best Performer in a Streamed Musical (BroadwayWorld). Board Member Barrington Stage; BA in Vocal Performance Rice University; Deacon at Metro Baptist Church NYC. IG: @alanhgreen   

Alan H. Green
Alan H. Green
Joe Hamilton

Alan H. Green (Joe Hamilton) Broadway: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, School of Rock, Sister Act, Play On!. Original Cast Albums include Broadway shows and: The Jerusalem Syndrome, 17 Again, Broadway Bounty Hunter, Freaky Friday, and Carols for a Cure. First National Tours: 25th Annual... Spelling Bee, Swing!, Smokey Joe’s Cafe. International: Miss Saigon (sung in German). PreBroadway: The Karate Kid at Stages St Louis, The GriswoldsBroadway Vacation at Seattle 5th Avenue, AD 16 at Olney Theatre. TV: Almost Family, Unforgettable, Murphy Brown, 30 Rock, Peter Pan Live!, Law & Order SVU, The Guiding Light. Awards: Outstanding Lead Actor in a Musical (Berkie), Best Performer in a Streamed Musical (BroadwayWorld). Board Member Barrington Stage; BA in Vocal Performance Rice University; Deacon at Metro Baptist Church NYC. IG: @alanhgreen   

Darius Harper (Ensemble, u/s Dudley, Joe) 
[he/they] is thrilled to bring this production to the iconic Alliance Theatre. Credits include Kinky Boots (Lola) [1st Natl Tour, PCLO, Riverside Theatre], Once On This Island (Papa Ge) [PCLO], Grease (Teen Angel) [Fulton Theatre]. Darius originated the vocalist in Cirque Du Soleil's VOLTA, streaming on AppleTV and Spotify. Huge thanks to Tara Rubin casting, Tituss Burgess, and my Hudson Artists Family! @dariusharius 

Darius Harper
Darius Harper
Ensemble

Darius Harper (Ensemble, u/s Dudley, Joe) 
[he/they] is thrilled to bring this production to the iconic Alliance Theatre. Credits include Kinky Boots (Lola) [1st Natl Tour, PCLO, Riverside Theatre], Once On This Island (Papa Ge) [PCLO], Grease (Teen Angel) [Fulton Theatre]. Darius originated the vocalist in Cirque Du Soleil's VOLTA, streaming on AppleTV and Spotify. Huge thanks to Tara Rubin casting, Tituss Burgess, and my Hudson Artists Family! @dariusharius 

Toneisha Harris (Ensemble, u/s Marguerite) [she/her] is thrilled to join the cast of The Preacher’s Wife at the Alliance Theatre! Favorite credits include Motormouth Maybelle in Hairspray (Broadway National Tour), Shug Avery in The Color Purple (CFRT Fayetteville), and Pharaoh in Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Riverside Theatre). She is the Runner Up from season 18 of NBC’s The Voice, and performed with Nick Jonas on Saturday Nite Live. Toneisha is grateful for her family and friends for their support! Find her on social media: @iamtoneishaharris   

Toneisha Harris
Toneisha Harris
Ensemble

Toneisha Harris (Ensemble, u/s Marguerite) [she/her] is thrilled to join the cast of The Preacher’s Wife at the Alliance Theatre! Favorite credits include Motormouth Maybelle in Hairspray (Broadway National Tour), Shug Avery in The Color Purple (CFRT Fayetteville), and Pharaoh in Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Riverside Theatre). She is the Runner Up from season 18 of NBC’s The Voice, and performed with Nick Jonas on Saturday Nite Live. Toneisha is grateful for her family and friends for their support! Find her on social media: @iamtoneishaharris   

Shaq Hester (Ensemble/Partial Swing, u/s Ol’ Mac) [he/him] is proud to join the cast of the much-anticipated new musical, The Preacher’s Wife premiering at The Alliance Theatre! His favorite roles include Harpo in The Color Purple (Short North Stage, dir. by Vasthy Mompoint), Wes in The View Upstairs (The Progressive Theatre), Little Moe in Five Guys Named Moe (Workshop Theatre of SC). His off-Broadway features include Antigone in Ferguson (Theater of War) with Chris Noth and Lewberger & the Wizard of Friendship (Theatre Row), directed by The Try Guys’ Keith Habersberger. He performed as a Vocalist-Musician in Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company’s Bessie Award-Winning Deep Blue Sea (Park Avenue Armory, 2021) and Vocal Arranger in the 2021 Pyer Moss Couture Runway Show (Villa Lewaro). He holds music degrees from Indiana University Jacobs School of Music and the University of South Carolina. As a Paterson, New Jersey churchboy who religiously watched reruns of The Preacher’s Wife (1996), Shaq shouts out his beloved village, family, and the Divine. God be God’ing. Learn more at shaqhester.com & stream his single, “Soft.” | Instagram: @shaq.hester 

Shaq Hester
Shaq Hester
Partial Swing / Ensemble

Shaq Hester (Ensemble/Partial Swing, u/s Ol’ Mac) [he/him] is proud to join the cast of the much-anticipated new musical, The Preacher’s Wife premiering at The Alliance Theatre! His favorite roles include Harpo in The Color Purple (Short North Stage, dir. by Vasthy Mompoint), Wes in The View Upstairs (The Progressive Theatre), Little Moe in Five Guys Named Moe (Workshop Theatre of SC). His off-Broadway features include Antigone in Ferguson (Theater of War) with Chris Noth and Lewberger & the Wizard of Friendship (Theatre Row), directed by The Try Guys’ Keith Habersberger. He performed as a Vocalist-Musician in Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company’s Bessie Award-Winning Deep Blue Sea (Park Avenue Armory, 2021) and Vocal Arranger in the 2021 Pyer Moss Couture Runway Show (Villa Lewaro). He holds music degrees from Indiana University Jacobs School of Music and the University of South Carolina. As a Paterson, New Jersey churchboy who religiously watched reruns of The Preacher’s Wife (1996), Shaq shouts out his beloved village, family, and the Divine. God be God’ing. Learn more at shaqhester.com & stream his single, “Soft.” | Instagram: @shaq.hester 

Brianna Javis (Partial Swing/Ensemble, u/s Ensemble) is blessed with the opportunity to join the cast of The Preacher’s Wife at the Alliance Theatre! Past credits include: The international tour of Dreamgirls (Effie,alt), National Tour of The Magic TreeHouse: Showtime with Shakespeare (Morgan LeFaye). Little Shop of Horrors (Crystal), The Arts Center of Coastal Carolina. Disaster! (LeVora Verona), The Rochester Opera House. Grease (Jan), Axelrod Performing Arts Center. Smokey Joe’s Cafe (BJ), Oskar Schindler Performing Arts Center. Other credits include: Pippin (The Leading Player) and Hairspray (Dynamite/Shayna). With training from various programs in the New York/New Jersey area, she is thrilled to be a part of something that stirs up so many good memories! A special thank you to ALL her friends, family, and Hell’s Kitchen Agency for all the support! Find her on instagram: @brijavis 

Brianna Javis
Brianna Javis
Partial Swing / Ensemble

Brianna Javis (Partial Swing/Ensemble, u/s Ensemble) is blessed with the opportunity to join the cast of The Preacher’s Wife at the Alliance Theatre! Past credits include: The international tour of Dreamgirls (Effie,alt), National Tour of The Magic TreeHouse: Showtime with Shakespeare (Morgan LeFaye). Little Shop of Horrors (Crystal), The Arts Center of Coastal Carolina. Disaster! (LeVora Verona), The Rochester Opera House. Grease (Jan), Axelrod Performing Arts Center. Smokey Joe’s Cafe (BJ), Oskar Schindler Performing Arts Center. Other credits include: Pippin (The Leading Player) and Hairspray (Dynamite/Shayna). With training from various programs in the New York/New Jersey area, she is thrilled to be a part of something that stirs up so many good memories! A special thank you to ALL her friends, family, and Hell’s Kitchen Agency for all the support! Find her on instagram: @brijavis 

Jahi Kearse (Deacon Lewis, u/s Henry Biggs) [he/him] is overjoyed to return home to the Alliance Theatre, as part of this vibrant musical. He was last seen in productions of 5 Guys Named Moe, A Christmas Carol, Seussical The Musical, Debbie Allen’s Souls Possessed, Woody Guthrie's American Song, and The Hobbit (The Alliance Theatre); Broadway credits include: Ain’t Too Proud (The Imperial Theater); Holler If Ya Hear Me (The Palace Theater); Baby It’s You (The Broadhurst Theater). Off Broadway and Regional Theater Credits include: The Total Bent; Fortress Of Solitude (The Public Theater); Maurice Hines’ Yo Alice (Radio City Music Hall); Anais Mitchell’s Hadestown (NSF); The Hippest Trip: The SoulTrain Musical (A.C.T); Passing Strange; Motherf**ker with the Hat; Topdog/Underdog. (Studio Theater). Satchmo at the Waldorf (B St Theatre) Fun Fact: Jahi began his lifelong theatrical career in 1987, as a child performer in The Alliance Theatre’s production of The Gospel at Colonus starring Morgan Freeman. Follow my journey online at IG/FB: @jahikearse To my Family & Friends….143. 

Jahi Kearse
Jahi Kearse
Deacon Lewis

Jahi Kearse (Deacon Lewis, u/s Henry Biggs) [he/him] is overjoyed to return home to the Alliance Theatre, as part of this vibrant musical. He was last seen in productions of 5 Guys Named Moe, A Christmas Carol, Seussical The Musical, Debbie Allen’s Souls Possessed, Woody Guthrie's American Song, and The Hobbit (The Alliance Theatre); Broadway credits include: Ain’t Too Proud (The Imperial Theater); Holler If Ya Hear Me (The Palace Theater); Baby It’s You (The Broadhurst Theater). Off Broadway and Regional Theater Credits include: The Total Bent; Fortress Of Solitude (The Public Theater); Maurice Hines’ Yo Alice (Radio City Music Hall); Anais Mitchell’s Hadestown (NSF); The Hippest Trip: The SoulTrain Musical (A.C.T); Passing Strange; Motherf**ker with the Hat; Topdog/Underdog. (Studio Theater). Satchmo at the Waldorf (B St Theatre) Fun Fact: Jahi began his lifelong theatrical career in 1987, as a child performer in The Alliance Theatre’s production of The Gospel at Colonus starring Morgan Freeman. Follow my journey online at IG/FB: @jahikearse To my Family & Friends….143. 

Davis Matthews (Hakeem/Ensemble, u/s Jeremiah) Born in Chicago and raised in New York, Davis is thrilled to join the world premiere of this extraordinary production! Davis started performing when he was six and feels incredibly blessed to share his talents. His previous credits include Broadway: The Lion King (Minskoff Theater), and Off-Broadway: A Soulful Christmas (Marjorie S. Dean Theater). Davis hopes to inspire other kids to pursue their dreams and just be themselves! He extends his deepest gratitude to God for this wonderful opportunity and to his loving family, supportive friends, and Gill Talent Group. Let’s Gooo! I Cor 10:31. IG: @iamdavismatthews

Davis Matthews
Davis Matthews
Hakeem / Ensemble

Davis Matthews (Hakeem/Ensemble, u/s Jeremiah) Born in Chicago and raised in New York, Davis is thrilled to join the world premiere of this extraordinary production! Davis started performing when he was six and feels incredibly blessed to share his talents. His previous credits include Broadway: The Lion King (Minskoff Theater), and Off-Broadway: A Soulful Christmas (Marjorie S. Dean Theater). Davis hopes to inspire other kids to pursue their dreams and just be themselves! He extends his deepest gratitude to God for this wonderful opportunity and to his loving family, supportive friends, and Gill Talent Group. Let’s Gooo! I Cor 10:31. IG: @iamdavismatthews

Cameron McCrae (Jeremiah/Ensemble) [he/him] is making his professional stage debut in the opening of The Preacher’s Wife at the Alliance Theatre! Cameron has been part of many ensemble groups performing at the private learning institution, The Ron Clark Academy, where he is currently a fifth grader. You may have caught his viral video on social media as he sang alongside Keyshia Cole! Performing on stage is only one of his many talents. Cameron also plays the keyboard, is mastering his drumming skills, and enjoys flexing his vocals. Outside of the performance arena, Cameron excels in sports, playing quarterback for the City of Atlanta Parks and Recreation where he’s achieved all-star status in both football and basketball. 

Cameron McCrae
Cameron McCrae
Jeremiah / Ensemble

Cameron McCrae (Jeremiah/Ensemble) [he/him] is making his professional stage debut in the opening of The Preacher’s Wife at the Alliance Theatre! Cameron has been part of many ensemble groups performing at the private learning institution, The Ron Clark Academy, where he is currently a fifth grader. You may have caught his viral video on social media as he sang alongside Keyshia Cole! Performing on stage is only one of his many talents. Cameron also plays the keyboard, is mastering his drumming skills, and enjoys flexing his vocals. Outside of the performance arena, Cameron excels in sports, playing quarterback for the City of Atlanta Parks and Recreation where he’s achieved all-star status in both football and basketball. 

Harper Miles (Ensemble, u/s Ensemble) feels extremely blessed being a part of A Preacher’s Wife. She was last seen originating the role of La Chocolat in the 1st National tour of Moulin Rouge The Musical. She was also Radio 3 in the hit Broadway revival Caroline, or Change at Roundabout Theatre Company. Her other credits include; Zahara in Bat Out of Hell at New York City Center, Lucille/Shirelles in the National tour of Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, and LA PRIDE 2021 with Christina Aguilera. Harper wants to continue to tell black stories and be representation for young people who look like her. Grateful to God, family, and her LG management team for the constant support. IG @harpermiles 

Harper Miles
Harper Miles
Ensemble

Harper Miles (Ensemble, u/s Ensemble) feels extremely blessed being a part of A Preacher’s Wife. She was last seen originating the role of La Chocolat in the 1st National tour of Moulin Rouge The Musical. She was also Radio 3 in the hit Broadway revival Caroline, or Change at Roundabout Theatre Company. Her other credits include; Zahara in Bat Out of Hell at New York City Center, Lucille/Shirelles in the National tour of Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, and LA PRIDE 2021 with Christina Aguilera. Harper wants to continue to tell black stories and be representation for young people who look like her. Grateful to God, family, and her LG management team for the constant support. IG @harpermiles 

Amma Osei (Ensemble, u/s Beverly) [she/her] is excited to be making her Alliance Theatre debut! Amma most recently completed her second season at Broadway at Music Circus, playing Joanne Jefferson in Rent and Sarah's Friend in Ragtime. Broadway: Rock of Ages (Justice). National and International Tours: Pretty Woman: The Musical (Violetta), Rock of Ages (Justice), Dreamgirls (Effie), Fame (Ms. Sherman). Regional: The Color Purple (Sofia), Saturday Night Fever (Candy), Gypsy (Mazeppa), Seussical (Sour Kangaroo), Big River (Alice), Ain’t Misbehavin’ (Armelia), All Shook Up (Sylvia), Little Shop of Horrors (Ronette), The Who’s Tommy (Acid Queen), A Night with Janis Joplin (Joplin Aire). Thanks to Whole Artist Management, Daniel Hoff Agency, and to my friends and family for your guidance, support, and belief in me. @AmmaOseiNYC

Amma Osei
Amma Osei
Ensemble

Amma Osei (Ensemble, u/s Beverly) [she/her] is excited to be making her Alliance Theatre debut! Amma most recently completed her second season at Broadway at Music Circus, playing Joanne Jefferson in Rent and Sarah's Friend in Ragtime. Broadway: Rock of Ages (Justice). National and International Tours: Pretty Woman: The Musical (Violetta), Rock of Ages (Justice), Dreamgirls (Effie), Fame (Ms. Sherman). Regional: The Color Purple (Sofia), Saturday Night Fever (Candy), Gypsy (Mazeppa), Seussical (Sour Kangaroo), Big River (Alice), Ain’t Misbehavin’ (Armelia), All Shook Up (Sylvia), Little Shop of Horrors (Ronette), The Who’s Tommy (Acid Queen), A Night with Janis Joplin (Joplin Aire). Thanks to Whole Artist Management, Daniel Hoff Agency, and to my friends and family for your guidance, support, and belief in me. @AmmaOseiNYC

Wayne Pretlow (Ol’ Mac/Ensemble, u/s Deacon Johnson, Deacon Lewis) is pleased to join the Alliance family and work with such an amazing cast and crew. He has worked with some of Broadway’s most respected directors from Charles Randolph-Wright to the late Hal Prince… Broadway, Off-Broadway, international theater: 1999 Tony Nominated for The Civil War (original cast member), 2017 World premiere of Roman Holiday, European tour: Ain’t Misbehavin’. Many New York City Centers Encores! Concerts: critics mention New York Times for New York Encores! Off-Center production of Don’t Bother Me I Can’t Cope, directed and choreographed by Savion Glover. Television: guest and co-starring roles: Law and Order, Law and Order SVU, Hulu: Monsterland, HBO: Love Life, Blue Bloods, Madam Secretary, The Good Wife, Person of Interest, Madam Secretary, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Luke Cage, and House of Cards. Films: Like Sunday Like Rain, Cannes Festival winner Next Stop Wonderland, The Accident, and Yardbird Houston in the short film In Retrospect. He has appeared on The Rosie O’Donnell Show: The David Letterman Show, The Chris Rock Show, and The Dave Chappelle Show and has done over 100 regional and national commercials. Awards/Nominations: Winner Boston’s 2013 * I.R.N.E. Nominated 2000 *Helen Hayes Award. TGBTG
 

Wayne Pretlow
Wayne Pretlow
Ol' Mac

Wayne Pretlow (Ol’ Mac/Ensemble, u/s Deacon Johnson, Deacon Lewis) is pleased to join the Alliance family and work with such an amazing cast and crew. He has worked with some of Broadway’s most respected directors from Charles Randolph-Wright to the late Hal Prince… Broadway, Off-Broadway, international theater: 1999 Tony Nominated for The Civil War (original cast member), 2017 World premiere of Roman Holiday, European tour: Ain’t Misbehavin’. Many New York City Centers Encores! Concerts: critics mention New York Times for New York Encores! Off-Center production of Don’t Bother Me I Can’t Cope, directed and choreographed by Savion Glover. Television: guest and co-starring roles: Law and Order, Law and Order SVU, Hulu: Monsterland, HBO: Love Life, Blue Bloods, Madam Secretary, The Good Wife, Person of Interest, Madam Secretary, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Luke Cage, and House of Cards. Films: Like Sunday Like Rain, Cannes Festival winner Next Stop Wonderland, The Accident, and Yardbird Houston in the short film In Retrospect. He has appeared on The Rosie O’Donnell Show: The David Letterman Show, The Chris Rock Show, and The Dave Chappelle Show and has done over 100 regional and national commercials. Awards/Nominations: Winner Boston’s 2013 * I.R.N.E. Nominated 2000 *Helen Hayes Award. TGBTG
 

Brad Raymond
Brad Raymond
Deacon Johnson

Amber Riley (Julia Biggs) is a multi-faceted entertainer who has accumulated various titles over the years including GRAMMY-nominated singer, SAG Award-winning actress and acclaimed theater performer. The Compton native rose to success for her portrayal of Mercedes Jones on FOX’s critically-acclaimed series, Glee, where she shined as the show’s powerhouse vocalist. Riley went on to star in live TV adaptations of The Wiz Live! and The Little Mermaid Live! She is also notably known for her stunning performance as Effie White in the West End debut of Dreamgirls in the fall of 2016 for which she won the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actress in a Musical in 2017. In 2020, Amber released her debut EP, titled after her new moniker, RILEY, which received praise from outlets like Good Morning America, ESSENCE, Interview, ELLE, UPROXX, VIBE and Rated R&B. Riley made history in 2022, becoming the first celebrity ever to win both The Masked Singer and Dancing With The Stars. Most recently, she starred in the Lifetime original film, Single Black Female 2: Simone’s Revenge, which is the sequel to the 2022 film that brought in over 8 million total viewers and was the network’s No. 1 original non-holiday movie of 2022. 

Amber Riley
Amber Riley
Julia Biggs

Amber Riley (Julia Biggs) is a multi-faceted entertainer who has accumulated various titles over the years including GRAMMY-nominated singer, SAG Award-winning actress and acclaimed theater performer. The Compton native rose to success for her portrayal of Mercedes Jones on FOX’s critically-acclaimed series, Glee, where she shined as the show’s powerhouse vocalist. Riley went on to star in live TV adaptations of The Wiz Live! and The Little Mermaid Live! She is also notably known for her stunning performance as Effie White in the West End debut of Dreamgirls in the fall of 2016 for which she won the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actress in a Musical in 2017. In 2020, Amber released her debut EP, titled after her new moniker, RILEY, which received praise from outlets like Good Morning America, ESSENCE, Interview, ELLE, UPROXX, VIBE and Rated R&B. Riley made history in 2022, becoming the first celebrity ever to win both The Masked Singer and Dancing With The Stars. Most recently, she starred in the Lifetime original film, Single Black Female 2: Simone’s Revenge, which is the sequel to the 2022 film that brought in over 8 million total viewers and was the network’s No. 1 original non-holiday movie of 2022. 

Kala Ross (Ensemble, u/s Ilona, Delphine, Ensemble) is thrilled to return to the Alliance Theatre for the world premiere of The Preacher’s Wife! Her recent credits include For Colored Girls (Broadway), The Gospel Woman (Off-Broadway), Show Way (TYA-Kennedy Center), The Light (Chester Theatre), and Hands Up (Alliance Theatre). A Georgia native, Kala earned her M.F.A. from the University of Louisville and her bachelor’s degree in theatre from Tennessee State University. She was also a finalist in the True Colors Theatre August Wilson Monologue Competition. Kala is also a former theater teacher of Luella High School! Kala extends her heartfelt thanks to Hudson Artists Agency, her family, friends, cast, and production team. “With faith and hard work, any dream is possible.” Stay tuned for the June 2024 premiere of her independently produced web series, “Welcome to NY,” a comedy following her journey making it as an actress in New York City. Connect with Kala on Instagram @KalaRoss or visit her website www.kalaross.com.
 

Kala Ross
Kala Ross
Ensemble

Kala Ross (Ensemble, u/s Ilona, Delphine, Ensemble) is thrilled to return to the Alliance Theatre for the world premiere of The Preacher’s Wife! Her recent credits include For Colored Girls (Broadway), The Gospel Woman (Off-Broadway), Show Way (TYA-Kennedy Center), The Light (Chester Theatre), and Hands Up (Alliance Theatre). A Georgia native, Kala earned her M.F.A. from the University of Louisville and her bachelor’s degree in theatre from Tennessee State University. She was also a finalist in the True Colors Theatre August Wilson Monologue Competition. Kala is also a former theater teacher of Luella High School! Kala extends her heartfelt thanks to Hudson Artists Agency, her family, friends, cast, and production team. “With faith and hard work, any dream is possible.” Stay tuned for the June 2024 premiere of her independently produced web series, “Welcome to NY,” a comedy following her journey making it as an actress in New York City. Connect with Kala on Instagram @KalaRoss or visit her website www.kalaross.com.
 

Drew Shade (Ensemble, u/s Joe, Deacon Johnson, Deacon Lewis) [he/him] is the Founder of Broadway Black, creator of Off Book: The Black Theatre podcast, and The Awards formerly known as The Antonyos. He is elated to join the cast of such a special show here at The Alliance Theatre after a long hiatus from the stage. Drew would love to thank his family and friends for all their encouragement and support. Follow him on all socials: @drewshade & @broadwayblack 

Drew Shade
Drew Shade
Ensemble

Drew Shade (Ensemble, u/s Joe, Deacon Johnson, Deacon Lewis) [he/him] is the Founder of Broadway Black, creator of Off Book: The Black Theatre podcast, and The Awards formerly known as The Antonyos. He is elated to join the cast of such a special show here at The Alliance Theatre after a long hiatus from the stage. Drew would love to thank his family and friends for all their encouragement and support. Follow him on all socials: @drewshade & @broadwayblack 

Michael Stiggers (Ensemble, u/s Dudley, Henry) [he/him] is thrilled to be back at the Alliance Theatre! Broadway: Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Disney's The Lion King. ATL/Regional: Born For This (Alliance Theatre, Arena Stage), White Christmas (City Springs Theatre), and Les Miserables (Aurora Theatre). Film/TV: My Killer Reunion (Lifetime), Theatre School Dropouts (Amazon). Love to Maggie and Josie, the loves of my life and to Mom, whose favorite movie of all-time is The Preacher's Wife. IG: @yungstiggy 

Michael Stiggers
Michael Stiggers
Ensemble

Michael Stiggers (Ensemble, u/s Dudley, Henry) [he/him] is thrilled to be back at the Alliance Theatre! Broadway: Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Disney's The Lion King. ATL/Regional: Born For This (Alliance Theatre, Arena Stage), White Christmas (City Springs Theatre), and Les Miserables (Aurora Theatre). Film/TV: My Killer Reunion (Lifetime), Theatre School Dropouts (Amazon). Love to Maggie and Josie, the loves of my life and to Mom, whose favorite movie of all-time is The Preacher's Wife. IG: @yungstiggy 

Alicia Thomas (Ensemble, u/s Beverly, Ensemble) feels extremely blessed to make her Alliance Theatre debut with The Preacher’s Wife. Alicia is a proud Detroit native. Favorite credits include Motherless, written by Cherise Kimoy, Lorrell in Dreamgirls, The Colored Museum and The Producers at American Stage, Alais in The Lion in Winter and Ernestine in Crumbs From the Table of Joy at freeFall Theatre, Beneatha in A Raisin in the Sun, and Raisin at Astoria Performing Arts Center. She’s had the pleasure of being a BGV for Laurént Grant Williams’ concerts. Alicia gives all the glory to God and many thanks to her family and friends for their love and support. Matthew 5:16. itsmealicia.com //  IG: @itsme_alicia_ 

Alicia Thomas
Alicia Thomas
Ensemble

Alicia Thomas (Ensemble, u/s Beverly, Ensemble) feels extremely blessed to make her Alliance Theatre debut with The Preacher’s Wife. Alicia is a proud Detroit native. Favorite credits include Motherless, written by Cherise Kimoy, Lorrell in Dreamgirls, The Colored Museum and The Producers at American Stage, Alais in The Lion in Winter and Ernestine in Crumbs From the Table of Joy at freeFall Theatre, Beneatha in A Raisin in the Sun, and Raisin at Astoria Performing Arts Center. She’s had the pleasure of being a BGV for Laurént Grant Williams’ concerts. Alicia gives all the glory to God and many thanks to her family and friends for their love and support. Matthew 5:16. itsmealicia.com //  IG: @itsme_alicia_ 

Damani Van Rensalier (Ensemble, u/s Monique) is humbled to be joining the company of The Preacher’s Wife at the Alliance Theatre! This Paterson native holds her BFA in Dance from Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University. Recent theater credits include: vacation swing in Hadestown (Broadway), featured ensemble member in Hamilton (national tour and Broadway). Damani gives all glory to God and thanks her Mom, Dad, Brother, family, friends, and CESD for their love and support! Proverbs 3:5-6 {IG: @damanivr} 

Damani Van Rensalier
Damani Van Rensalier
Ensemble

Damani Van Rensalier (Ensemble, u/s Monique) is humbled to be joining the company of The Preacher’s Wife at the Alliance Theatre! This Paterson native holds her BFA in Dance from Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University. Recent theater credits include: vacation swing in Hadestown (Broadway), featured ensemble member in Hamilton (national tour and Broadway). Damani gives all glory to God and thanks her Mom, Dad, Brother, family, friends, and CESD for their love and support! Proverbs 3:5-6 {IG: @damanivr} 

Akron Lanier Watson
Akron Lanier Watson
Henry Biggs

Donald Webber, Jr (Dudley) is excited to make his Alliance Theatre debut! BROADWAY: Purlie Victorious, Hamilton, Motown: the Musical (OBC), Holler If Ya Hear Me (OBC). TV/Film: Severance (AppleTV+), The Punisher (Netflix), The WIZ: Live! (NBC), Da Bronx U.S.A. (Music in Media nominations & Oscar short list), Killing Me Softly With His Song (Music in Media nomination). OFF-BROADWAY/TOUR: Children of Eden (Lincoln Center; Manhattan Concert Productions), Hamilton (‘Aaron Burr’), Jersey Boys, Born For This, Renascence, Whorl Inside A Loop, Bella: An American Tall Tale. University of Southern California, BFA Acting. “RC, for you always. We love you so much, D3 & LZ!” Thank you to Michael, Tinashe, James, Azie, and Tituss for this blessing. To God be the glory!  @donaldwebber

Donald Webber
Donald Webber
Dudley

Donald Webber, Jr (Dudley) is excited to make his Alliance Theatre debut! BROADWAY: Purlie Victorious, Hamilton, Motown: the Musical (OBC), Holler If Ya Hear Me (OBC). TV/Film: Severance (AppleTV+), The Punisher (Netflix), The WIZ: Live! (NBC), Da Bronx U.S.A. (Music in Media nominations & Oscar short list), Killing Me Softly With His Song (Music in Media nomination). OFF-BROADWAY/TOUR: Children of Eden (Lincoln Center; Manhattan Concert Productions), Hamilton (‘Aaron Burr’), Jersey Boys, Born For This, Renascence, Whorl Inside A Loop, Bella: An American Tall Tale. University of Southern California, BFA Acting. “RC, for you always. We love you so much, D3 & LZ!” Thank you to Michael, Tinashe, James, Azie, and Tituss for this blessing. To God be the glory!  @donaldwebber

Helen Marla White (Ensemble, u/s Julia) [she/her] I am truly excited to be a part of the cast of The Preacher’s Wife and thrilled to make my debut at the Alliance Theatre! Favorite credits include: Women/Singer in Bayard Rustin in Ashland at People's Light Theatre, Sangoma in Dreaming Zenzile at Arts Emerson, Roberta/Gloria in Sistas the Musical at St. Luke Theatre, Armelia in Ain’t Misbehavin’ at Theatre by the Sea and Surflight Theatre, Mrs. Phelps in Matilda at Surflight Theatre, Ms. Orna Mint in Light it Up at Cleveland Playhouse, Ensemble in The First Noel at the Apollo Theatre. Helen was a Music Performance major at The University of Kentucky. Helen would love to thank her friends, family, teachers, and coaches for all their love and support. Most importantly, she thanks God and her mother in heaven for loving her and being her best teacher (my Shero). Tituss, so happy to see your vision come to fruition. Psalm 23 and Prov. 3:5-6 

Helen Marla White
Helen Marla White
Ensemble

Helen Marla White (Ensemble, u/s Julia) [she/her] I am truly excited to be a part of the cast of The Preacher’s Wife and thrilled to make my debut at the Alliance Theatre! Favorite credits include: Women/Singer in Bayard Rustin in Ashland at People's Light Theatre, Sangoma in Dreaming Zenzile at Arts Emerson, Roberta/Gloria in Sistas the Musical at St. Luke Theatre, Armelia in Ain’t Misbehavin’ at Theatre by the Sea and Surflight Theatre, Mrs. Phelps in Matilda at Surflight Theatre, Ms. Orna Mint in Light it Up at Cleveland Playhouse, Ensemble in The First Noel at the Apollo Theatre. Helen was a Music Performance major at The University of Kentucky. Helen would love to thank her friends, family, teachers, and coaches for all their love and support. Most importantly, she thanks God and her mother in heaven for loving her and being her best teacher (my Shero). Tituss, so happy to see your vision come to fruition. Psalm 23 and Prov. 3:5-6 

Understudies

Wesley J. Barnes (Ensemble) is thrilled to be making his Alliance Theatre debut. LA native-CUI Alum. Favorite credits include, Broadway National tour of Mean Girls, the 50th Anniversary National Tour of Jesus Christ Superstar, Kinky BootsChoir BoyThe Tap Dance KidNewsies, Godspell, The Scottsboro Boys, and HairspraySophisticated LadiesIn the Heights, etc. When not performing, his passion is put to work as an arts educator, inspiring performers to continue to reach their full potential. To aid this mission Wesley has just found an organization called The MPACT (Mentoring Performing Artists and Curating Talent) Group. Jer 29:11 www.wesleyjbarnes.com 

Wesley Barnes
Wesley Barnes
Ensemble

Wesley J. Barnes (Ensemble) is thrilled to be making his Alliance Theatre debut. LA native-CUI Alum. Favorite credits include, Broadway National tour of Mean Girls, the 50th Anniversary National Tour of Jesus Christ Superstar, Kinky BootsChoir BoyThe Tap Dance KidNewsies, Godspell, The Scottsboro Boys, and HairspraySophisticated LadiesIn the Heights, etc. When not performing, his passion is put to work as an arts educator, inspiring performers to continue to reach their full potential. To aid this mission Wesley has just found an organization called The MPACT (Mentoring Performing Artists and Curating Talent) Group. Jer 29:11 www.wesleyjbarnes.com 

Brianna Bellamy (Ensemble, u/s Jeremiah, Hakeem) aka Brianna Raquel is excited to be a part of the cast of The Preacher’s Wife. Her credits are: The Color Purple the musical as Celie, Aida the musical as Aida, Seussical the Musical as Gertrude, and Once On This Island as Erzulie, just to name a few. She holds the Lead Thespian title, the most likely to be on Broadway Award, Artist of the Year and The Peer Choice Award, all in the years of 2022-2023 at Rainbow Park Elementary Magnet School, in Miami, Florida. Under the study of Yensina Ozuna, who is now the theater teacher at Martha Ellen Stilwell School of the Arts in Atlanta, Georgia. Brianna is currently enrolled at Utopian Academy Of The Arts, under the mentorship of Ms. Fredena Williams, who is the theater teacher at the school and also a talented opera singer. Brianna, would like to thank her friends and family for always supporting her and shines a big light on her parents for believing in her and supporting her dreams.

Brianna Bellamy
Brianna Bellamy
Jeremiah / Hakeem

Brianna Bellamy (Ensemble, u/s Jeremiah, Hakeem) aka Brianna Raquel is excited to be a part of the cast of The Preacher’s Wife. Her credits are: The Color Purple the musical as Celie, Aida the musical as Aida, Seussical the Musical as Gertrude, and Once On This Island as Erzulie, just to name a few. She holds the Lead Thespian title, the most likely to be on Broadway Award, Artist of the Year and The Peer Choice Award, all in the years of 2022-2023 at Rainbow Park Elementary Magnet School, in Miami, Florida. Under the study of Yensina Ozuna, who is now the theater teacher at Martha Ellen Stilwell School of the Arts in Atlanta, Georgia. Brianna is currently enrolled at Utopian Academy Of The Arts, under the mentorship of Ms. Fredena Williams, who is the theater teacher at the school and also a talented opera singer. Brianna, would like to thank her friends and family for always supporting her and shines a big light on her parents for believing in her and supporting her dreams.

Angela Birchett (Ensemble, u/s Marguerite Coleman) [she/her] is over the moon to be a part of The Preacher's Wife at the Alliance! She was last seen on the PaperMill Playhouse stage (Recipient of the 2016 Regional Theater TONY award) in After Midnight and ACT’s (San Francisco) world premiere of Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. Birchett made her Broadway debut with the 2015 Revival of The Color Purple. Other credits include: Hairspray, Dreamgirls, Once On This Island, Rent, Smokey Joe’s Cafe, Ain’t Misbehavin’ and Grease. Television and film highlights include Lifetime’s The Clark Sisters: First Ladies of Gospel, Kirk Franklin’s A Gospel Christmas, and Kevin Can Wait (CBS). @angelabirchett (IG) for more!

Angela Birchett
Angela Birchett
Marguerite Coleman

Angela Birchett (Ensemble, u/s Marguerite Coleman) [she/her] is over the moon to be a part of The Preacher's Wife at the Alliance! She was last seen on the PaperMill Playhouse stage (Recipient of the 2016 Regional Theater TONY award) in After Midnight and ACT’s (San Francisco) world premiere of Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. Birchett made her Broadway debut with the 2015 Revival of The Color Purple. Other credits include: Hairspray, Dreamgirls, Once On This Island, Rent, Smokey Joe’s Cafe, Ain’t Misbehavin’ and Grease. Television and film highlights include Lifetime’s The Clark Sisters: First Ladies of Gospel, Kirk Franklin’s A Gospel Christmas, and Kevin Can Wait (CBS). @angelabirchett (IG) for more!

Laila Bollar (u/s Jeremiah, Hakeem) is thrilled to be making her professional theater debut at the Alliance Theatre in Atlanta playing understudy and onstage ensemble in the world premiere production of The Preacher's Wife. Originally from Atlanta, GA, Laila has loved acting, singing, and theater since she was four years old! She trains at Studio 27 Talent, and attended the Mike Beaty Model and Talent Expo in 2023, where she was named Entertainer of the Year! She is thankful to her agent, Susan Wright of Ann Wright Representatives (NY), to Cheryl Harris of Studio 27 (ATL) and for her previous work at The Legacy Theatre, where she performed in The Little Mermaid and Encanto. In her spare time, Laila enjoys time with her younger brother, family and friends. Laila would like to express her gratitude to her parents for their encouragement and support as she continues to pursue her acting career. Visit her at @lailabee2023 on social media.  

Laila Bollar
Laila Bollar
Jeremiah / Hakeem

Laila Bollar (u/s Jeremiah, Hakeem) is thrilled to be making her professional theater debut at the Alliance Theatre in Atlanta playing understudy and onstage ensemble in the world premiere production of The Preacher's Wife. Originally from Atlanta, GA, Laila has loved acting, singing, and theater since she was four years old! She trains at Studio 27 Talent, and attended the Mike Beaty Model and Talent Expo in 2023, where she was named Entertainer of the Year! She is thankful to her agent, Susan Wright of Ann Wright Representatives (NY), to Cheryl Harris of Studio 27 (ATL) and for her previous work at The Legacy Theatre, where she performed in The Little Mermaid and Encanto. In her spare time, Laila enjoys time with her younger brother, family and friends. Laila would like to express her gratitude to her parents for their encouragement and support as she continues to pursue her acting career. Visit her at @lailabee2023 on social media.  

Melessie Clark (Ensemble, u/s Monique) is thrilled to join the cast of The Preacher’s Wife at Alliance Theatre! Hailing from Pittsburgh with a B.F.A. in Musical Theatre from Point Park University, Melessie recently made her Off-Broadway debut in A Sign of the Times at New World Stages. Her other credits include PCLO’s Once on This Island (Mama Euralie), Into the Woods (Lucinda), The Wizard of Oz (Glinda), Pittsburgh Public Theatre’s Two Trains Running (Risa), Little Shop of Horrors (Ronnette), School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play (Eloise), and Goddess (Grio Trio) at Berkeley Repertory Theatre. Melessie would love to thank her friends and family for their continuous love and support. “To God be the glory for the things He has done!” Instagram: @melessieclark 

Melessie Clark
Melessie Clark
Monique

Melessie Clark (Ensemble, u/s Monique) is thrilled to join the cast of The Preacher’s Wife at Alliance Theatre! Hailing from Pittsburgh with a B.F.A. in Musical Theatre from Point Park University, Melessie recently made her Off-Broadway debut in A Sign of the Times at New World Stages. Her other credits include PCLO’s Once on This Island (Mama Euralie), Into the Woods (Lucinda), The Wizard of Oz (Glinda), Pittsburgh Public Theatre’s Two Trains Running (Risa), Little Shop of Horrors (Ronnette), School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play (Eloise), and Goddess (Grio Trio) at Berkeley Repertory Theatre. Melessie would love to thank her friends and family for their continuous love and support. “To God be the glory for the things He has done!” Instagram: @melessieclark 

In 2020 Cyniah walked onto the national stage of American Idol, where she captured the hearts of not only the judges Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan but also the hearts of America. She made it all the way to the top 20 and was brought back the following season as a fan favorite in the top 10. Since then, she’s appeared in The Wiz, A Chorus Line, Hairspray, and Dreamgirls. Cyniah has gone viral numerous times, most recently for singing “And I Am Telling You,” which has reached over 2 million views and she was given the stamp of approval by Jennifer Hudson herself! Follow @cyniah.elise and stay tuned to her upcoming music release later this year.

Cyniah Elise
Cyniah Elise
Ensemble

In 2020 Cyniah walked onto the national stage of American Idol, where she captured the hearts of not only the judges Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan but also the hearts of America. She made it all the way to the top 20 and was brought back the following season as a fan favorite in the top 10. Since then, she’s appeared in The Wiz, A Chorus Line, Hairspray, and Dreamgirls. Cyniah has gone viral numerous times, most recently for singing “And I Am Telling You,” which has reached over 2 million views and she was given the stamp of approval by Jennifer Hudson herself! Follow @cyniah.elise and stay tuned to her upcoming music release later this year.

Cedrick Ekra (Partial Swing/Ensemble) [he/him] is positively pumped to join the cast of The Preacher's Wife at the Alliance Theatre! Favorite Credits include: Off-Broadway: Kyle in Here I Am (AMT Theater), Man 1 in Powerline Road (Theatre Now), and Son House in Call Me From The Grave (Jerry Orbach Theater). Regional: Harpo in The Color Purple (Ivoryton Playhouse), Drifter in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Ogunquit Playhouse, and Tuacahn Hafen Theatre), Clarence in The Scottsboro Boys (Playhouse on Park) and Magaldi in Evita (Jean’s Playhouse). Cruise: Icons and Lights, Camera, Music (Norwegian Cruise Line) Film: Male Singer in Whitney Houston’s I Wanna Dance With Somebody. Cedrick would love to thank Renee and Joe, and all his amazing friends for their constant support. Emerson MT ’22.  Bisou mama et emanuella. @cedrickekra

Cedrick Erka
Cedrick Erka
Ensemble

Cedrick Ekra (Partial Swing/Ensemble) [he/him] is positively pumped to join the cast of The Preacher's Wife at the Alliance Theatre! Favorite Credits include: Off-Broadway: Kyle in Here I Am (AMT Theater), Man 1 in Powerline Road (Theatre Now), and Son House in Call Me From The Grave (Jerry Orbach Theater). Regional: Harpo in The Color Purple (Ivoryton Playhouse), Drifter in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Ogunquit Playhouse, and Tuacahn Hafen Theatre), Clarence in The Scottsboro Boys (Playhouse on Park) and Magaldi in Evita (Jean’s Playhouse). Cruise: Icons and Lights, Camera, Music (Norwegian Cruise Line) Film: Male Singer in Whitney Houston’s I Wanna Dance With Somebody. Cedrick would love to thank Renee and Joe, and all his amazing friends for their constant support. Emerson MT ’22.  Bisou mama et emanuella. @cedrickekra

Darius Harper (Ensemble, u/s Dudley, Joe) 
[he/they] is thrilled to bring this production to the iconic Alliance Theatre. Credits include Kinky Boots (Lola) [1st Natl Tour, PCLO, Riverside Theatre], Once On This Island (Papa Ge) [PCLO], Grease (Teen Angel) [Fulton Theatre]. Darius originated the vocalist in Cirque Du Soleil's VOLTA, streaming on AppleTV and Spotify. Huge thanks to Tara Rubin casting, Tituss Burgess, and my Hudson Artists Family! @dariusharius 

Darius Harper
Darius Harper
Dudley / Joe

Darius Harper (Ensemble, u/s Dudley, Joe) 
[he/they] is thrilled to bring this production to the iconic Alliance Theatre. Credits include Kinky Boots (Lola) [1st Natl Tour, PCLO, Riverside Theatre], Once On This Island (Papa Ge) [PCLO], Grease (Teen Angel) [Fulton Theatre]. Darius originated the vocalist in Cirque Du Soleil's VOLTA, streaming on AppleTV and Spotify. Huge thanks to Tara Rubin casting, Tituss Burgess, and my Hudson Artists Family! @dariusharius 

Toneisha Harris (Ensemble, u/s Marguerite) [she/her] is thrilled to join the cast of The Preacher’s Wife at the Alliance Theatre! Favorite credits include Motormouth Maybelle in Hairspray (Broadway National Tour), Shug Avery in The Color Purple (CFRT Fayetteville), and Pharaoh in Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Riverside Theatre). She is the Runner Up from season 18 of NBC’s The Voice, and performed with Nick Jonas on Saturday Nite Live. Toneisha is grateful for her family and friends for their support! Find her on social media: @iamtoneishaharris   

Toneisha Harris
Toneisha Harris
Marguerite

Toneisha Harris (Ensemble, u/s Marguerite) [she/her] is thrilled to join the cast of The Preacher’s Wife at the Alliance Theatre! Favorite credits include Motormouth Maybelle in Hairspray (Broadway National Tour), Shug Avery in The Color Purple (CFRT Fayetteville), and Pharaoh in Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Riverside Theatre). She is the Runner Up from season 18 of NBC’s The Voice, and performed with Nick Jonas on Saturday Nite Live. Toneisha is grateful for her family and friends for their support! Find her on social media: @iamtoneishaharris   

Shaq Hester (Ensemble/Partial Swing, u/s Ol’ Mac) [he/him] is proud to join the cast of the much-anticipated new musical, The Preacher’s Wife premiering at The Alliance Theatre! His favorite roles include Harpo in The Color Purple (Short North Stage, dir. by Vasthy Mompoint), Wes in The View Upstairs (The Progressive Theatre), Little Moe in Five Guys Named Moe (Workshop Theatre of SC). His off-Broadway features include Antigone in Ferguson (Theater of War) with Chris Noth and Lewberger & the Wizard of Friendship (Theatre Row), directed by The Try Guys’ Keith Habersberger. He performed as a Vocalist-Musician in Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company’s Bessie Award-Winning Deep Blue Sea (Park Avenue Armory, 2021) and Vocal Arranger in the 2021 Pyer Moss Couture Runway Show (Villa Lewaro). He holds music degrees from Indiana University Jacobs School of Music and the University of South Carolina. As a Paterson, New Jersey churchboy who religiously watched reruns of The Preacher’s Wife (1996), Shaq shouts out his beloved village, family, and the Divine. God be God’ing. Learn more at shaqhester.com & stream his single, “Soft.” | Instagram: @shaq.hester 

Shaq Hester
Shaq Hester
Ol' Mac

Shaq Hester (Ensemble/Partial Swing, u/s Ol’ Mac) [he/him] is proud to join the cast of the much-anticipated new musical, The Preacher’s Wife premiering at The Alliance Theatre! His favorite roles include Harpo in The Color Purple (Short North Stage, dir. by Vasthy Mompoint), Wes in The View Upstairs (The Progressive Theatre), Little Moe in Five Guys Named Moe (Workshop Theatre of SC). His off-Broadway features include Antigone in Ferguson (Theater of War) with Chris Noth and Lewberger & the Wizard of Friendship (Theatre Row), directed by The Try Guys’ Keith Habersberger. He performed as a Vocalist-Musician in Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company’s Bessie Award-Winning Deep Blue Sea (Park Avenue Armory, 2021) and Vocal Arranger in the 2021 Pyer Moss Couture Runway Show (Villa Lewaro). He holds music degrees from Indiana University Jacobs School of Music and the University of South Carolina. As a Paterson, New Jersey churchboy who religiously watched reruns of The Preacher’s Wife (1996), Shaq shouts out his beloved village, family, and the Divine. God be God’ing. Learn more at shaqhester.com & stream his single, “Soft.” | Instagram: @shaq.hester 

Brianna Javis (Partial Swing/Ensemble, u/s Ensemble) is blessed with the opportunity to join the cast of The Preacher’s Wife at the Alliance Theatre! Past credits include: The international tour of Dreamgirls (Effie,alt), National Tour of The Magic TreeHouse: Showtime with Shakespeare (Morgan LeFaye). Little Shop of Horrors (Crystal), The Arts Center of Coastal Carolina. Disaster! (LeVora Verona), The Rochester Opera House. Grease (Jan), Axelrod Performing Arts Center. Smokey Joe’s Cafe (BJ), Oskar Schindler Performing Arts Center. Other credits include: Pippin (The Leading Player) and Hairspray (Dynamite/Shayna). With training from various programs in the New York/New Jersey area, she is thrilled to be a part of something that stirs up so many good memories! A special thank you to ALL her friends, family, and Hell’s Kitchen Agency for all the support! Find her on instagram: @brijavis 

Brianna Javis
Brianna Javis
Ensemble

Brianna Javis (Partial Swing/Ensemble, u/s Ensemble) is blessed with the opportunity to join the cast of The Preacher’s Wife at the Alliance Theatre! Past credits include: The international tour of Dreamgirls (Effie,alt), National Tour of The Magic TreeHouse: Showtime with Shakespeare (Morgan LeFaye). Little Shop of Horrors (Crystal), The Arts Center of Coastal Carolina. Disaster! (LeVora Verona), The Rochester Opera House. Grease (Jan), Axelrod Performing Arts Center. Smokey Joe’s Cafe (BJ), Oskar Schindler Performing Arts Center. Other credits include: Pippin (The Leading Player) and Hairspray (Dynamite/Shayna). With training from various programs in the New York/New Jersey area, she is thrilled to be a part of something that stirs up so many good memories! A special thank you to ALL her friends, family, and Hell’s Kitchen Agency for all the support! Find her on instagram: @brijavis 

Ashley Jenkins (u/s Julia, Ilona, Delphine) [she/her] is thrilled to join the cast of The Preacher's Wife at the Alliance Theatre! Favorite credits include Zulena in PASSING (Netflix), Celie in The Color Purple (Nat'l Tour), and Sarabi in The Lion King (Broadway). She holds a B.S. in Sociology from Shenandoah University and was formally trained at Stella Adler Acting Conservatory. Ashley is beyond grateful for the undying support of her husband, Anthony, her mom, Tari, and her sweet babies, August & Alex. Find her on IG: @ashleywjenki 

Ashley Jenkins
Ashley Jenkins
Julia / Ilona / Delphine

Ashley Jenkins (u/s Julia, Ilona, Delphine) [she/her] is thrilled to join the cast of The Preacher's Wife at the Alliance Theatre! Favorite credits include Zulena in PASSING (Netflix), Celie in The Color Purple (Nat'l Tour), and Sarabi in The Lion King (Broadway). She holds a B.S. in Sociology from Shenandoah University and was formally trained at Stella Adler Acting Conservatory. Ashley is beyond grateful for the undying support of her husband, Anthony, her mom, Tari, and her sweet babies, August & Alex. Find her on IG: @ashleywjenki 

Jahi Kearse (Deacon Lewis, u/s Henry Biggs) [he/him] is overjoyed to return home to the Alliance Theatre, as part of this vibrant musical. He was last seen in productions of 5 Guys Named Moe, A Christmas Carol, Seussical The Musical, Debbie Allen’s Souls Possessed, Woody Guthrie's American Song, and The Hobbit (The Alliance Theatre); Broadway credits include: Ain’t Too Proud (The Imperial Theater); Holler If Ya Hear Me (The Palace Theater); Baby It’s You (The Broadhurst Theater). Off Broadway and Regional Theater Credits include: The Total Bent; Fortress Of Solitude (The Public Theater); Maurice Hines’ Yo Alice (Radio City Music Hall); Anais Mitchell’s Hadestown (NSF); The Hippest Trip: The SoulTrain Musical (A.C.T); Passing Strange; Motherf**ker with the Hat; Topdog/Underdog. (Studio Theater). Satchmo at the Waldorf (B St Theatre) Fun Fact: Jahi began his lifelong theatrical career in 1987, as a child performer in The Alliance Theatre’s production of The Gospel at Colonus starring Morgan Freeman. Follow my journey online at IG/FB: @jahikearse To my Family & Friends….143. 

Jahi Kearse
Jahi Kearse
Henry Biggs

Jahi Kearse (Deacon Lewis, u/s Henry Biggs) [he/him] is overjoyed to return home to the Alliance Theatre, as part of this vibrant musical. He was last seen in productions of 5 Guys Named Moe, A Christmas Carol, Seussical The Musical, Debbie Allen’s Souls Possessed, Woody Guthrie's American Song, and The Hobbit (The Alliance Theatre); Broadway credits include: Ain’t Too Proud (The Imperial Theater); Holler If Ya Hear Me (The Palace Theater); Baby It’s You (The Broadhurst Theater). Off Broadway and Regional Theater Credits include: The Total Bent; Fortress Of Solitude (The Public Theater); Maurice Hines’ Yo Alice (Radio City Music Hall); Anais Mitchell’s Hadestown (NSF); The Hippest Trip: The SoulTrain Musical (A.C.T); Passing Strange; Motherf**ker with the Hat; Topdog/Underdog. (Studio Theater). Satchmo at the Waldorf (B St Theatre) Fun Fact: Jahi began his lifelong theatrical career in 1987, as a child performer in The Alliance Theatre’s production of The Gospel at Colonus starring Morgan Freeman. Follow my journey online at IG/FB: @jahikearse To my Family & Friends….143. 

Davis Matthews (Hakeem/Ensemble, u/s Jeremiah) Born in Chicago and raised in New York, Davis is thrilled to join the world premiere of this extraordinary production! Davis started performing when he was six and feels incredibly blessed to share his talents. His previous credits include Broadway: The Lion King (Minskoff Theater), and Off-Broadway: A Soulful Christmas (Marjorie S. Dean Theater). Davis hopes to inspire other kids to pursue their dreams and just be themselves! He extends his deepest gratitude to God for this wonderful opportunity and to his loving family, supportive friends, and Gill Talent Group. Let’s Gooo! I Cor 10:31. IG: @iamdavismatthews

Davis Matthews
Davis Matthews
Jeremiah

Davis Matthews (Hakeem/Ensemble, u/s Jeremiah) Born in Chicago and raised in New York, Davis is thrilled to join the world premiere of this extraordinary production! Davis started performing when he was six and feels incredibly blessed to share his talents. His previous credits include Broadway: The Lion King (Minskoff Theater), and Off-Broadway: A Soulful Christmas (Marjorie S. Dean Theater). Davis hopes to inspire other kids to pursue their dreams and just be themselves! He extends his deepest gratitude to God for this wonderful opportunity and to his loving family, supportive friends, and Gill Talent Group. Let’s Gooo! I Cor 10:31. IG: @iamdavismatthews

Harper Miles (Ensemble, u/s Ensemble) feels extremely blessed being a part of A Preacher’s Wife. She was last seen originating the role of La Chocolat in the 1st National tour of Moulin Rouge The Musical. She was also Radio 3 in the hit Broadway revival Caroline, or Change at Roundabout Theatre Company. Her other credits include; Zahara in Bat Out of Hell at New York City Center, Lucille/Shirelles in the National tour of Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, and LA PRIDE 2021 with Christina Aguilera. Harper wants to continue to tell black stories and be representation for young people who look like her. Grateful to God, family, and her LG management team for the constant support. IG @harpermiles 

Harper Miles
Harper Miles
Ensemble

Harper Miles (Ensemble, u/s Ensemble) feels extremely blessed being a part of A Preacher’s Wife. She was last seen originating the role of La Chocolat in the 1st National tour of Moulin Rouge The Musical. She was also Radio 3 in the hit Broadway revival Caroline, or Change at Roundabout Theatre Company. Her other credits include; Zahara in Bat Out of Hell at New York City Center, Lucille/Shirelles in the National tour of Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, and LA PRIDE 2021 with Christina Aguilera. Harper wants to continue to tell black stories and be representation for young people who look like her. Grateful to God, family, and her LG management team for the constant support. IG @harpermiles 

Amma Osei (Ensemble, u/s Beverly) [she/her] is excited to be making her Alliance Theatre debut! Amma most recently completed her second season at Broadway at Music Circus, playing Joanne Jefferson in Rent and Sarah's Friend in Ragtime. Broadway: Rock of Ages (Justice). National and International Tours: Pretty Woman: The Musical (Violetta), Rock of Ages (Justice), Dreamgirls (Effie), Fame (Ms. Sherman). Regional: The Color Purple (Sofia), Saturday Night Fever (Candy), Gypsy (Mazeppa), Seussical (Sour Kangaroo), Big River (Alice), Ain’t Misbehavin’ (Armelia), All Shook Up (Sylvia), Little Shop of Horrors (Ronette), The Who’s Tommy (Acid Queen), A Night with Janis Joplin (Joplin Aire). Thanks to Whole Artist Management, Daniel Hoff Agency, and to my friends and family for your guidance, support, and belief in me. @AmmaOseiNYC

Amma Osei
Amma Osei
Beverly

Amma Osei (Ensemble, u/s Beverly) [she/her] is excited to be making her Alliance Theatre debut! Amma most recently completed her second season at Broadway at Music Circus, playing Joanne Jefferson in Rent and Sarah's Friend in Ragtime. Broadway: Rock of Ages (Justice). National and International Tours: Pretty Woman: The Musical (Violetta), Rock of Ages (Justice), Dreamgirls (Effie), Fame (Ms. Sherman). Regional: The Color Purple (Sofia), Saturday Night Fever (Candy), Gypsy (Mazeppa), Seussical (Sour Kangaroo), Big River (Alice), Ain’t Misbehavin’ (Armelia), All Shook Up (Sylvia), Little Shop of Horrors (Ronette), The Who’s Tommy (Acid Queen), A Night with Janis Joplin (Joplin Aire). Thanks to Whole Artist Management, Daniel Hoff Agency, and to my friends and family for your guidance, support, and belief in me. @AmmaOseiNYC

Wayne Pretlow (Ol’ Mac/Ensemble, u/s Deacon Johnson, Deacon Lewis) is pleased to join the Alliance family and work with such an amazing cast and crew. He has worked with some of Broadway’s most respected directors from Charles Randolph-Wright to the late Hal Prince… Broadway, Off-Broadway, international theater: 1999 Tony Nominated for The Civil War (original cast member), 2017 World premiere of Roman Holiday, European tour: Ain’t Misbehavin’. Many New York City Centers Encores! Concerts: critics mention New York Times for New York Encores! Off-Center production of Don’t Bother Me I Can’t Cope, directed and choreographed by Savion Glover. Television: guest and co-starring roles: Law and Order, Law and Order SVU, Hulu: Monsterland, HBO: Love Life, Blue Bloods, Madam Secretary, The Good Wife, Person of Interest, Madam Secretary, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Luke Cage, and House of Cards. Films: Like Sunday Like Rain, Cannes Festival winner Next Stop Wonderland, The Accident, and Yardbird Houston in the short film In Retrospect. He has appeared on The Rosie O’Donnell Show: The David Letterman Show, The Chris Rock Show, and The Dave Chappelle Show and has done over 100 regional and national commercials. Awards/Nominations: Winner Boston’s 2013 * I.R.N.E. Nominated 2000 *Helen Hayes Award. TGBTG
 

Wayne Pretlow
Wayne Pretlow
Deacon Johnson / Deacon Lewis

Wayne Pretlow (Ol’ Mac/Ensemble, u/s Deacon Johnson, Deacon Lewis) is pleased to join the Alliance family and work with such an amazing cast and crew. He has worked with some of Broadway’s most respected directors from Charles Randolph-Wright to the late Hal Prince… Broadway, Off-Broadway, international theater: 1999 Tony Nominated for The Civil War (original cast member), 2017 World premiere of Roman Holiday, European tour: Ain’t Misbehavin’. Many New York City Centers Encores! Concerts: critics mention New York Times for New York Encores! Off-Center production of Don’t Bother Me I Can’t Cope, directed and choreographed by Savion Glover. Television: guest and co-starring roles: Law and Order, Law and Order SVU, Hulu: Monsterland, HBO: Love Life, Blue Bloods, Madam Secretary, The Good Wife, Person of Interest, Madam Secretary, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Luke Cage, and House of Cards. Films: Like Sunday Like Rain, Cannes Festival winner Next Stop Wonderland, The Accident, and Yardbird Houston in the short film In Retrospect. He has appeared on The Rosie O’Donnell Show: The David Letterman Show, The Chris Rock Show, and The Dave Chappelle Show and has done over 100 regional and national commercials. Awards/Nominations: Winner Boston’s 2013 * I.R.N.E. Nominated 2000 *Helen Hayes Award. TGBTG
 

Brad Raymond
Brad Raymond
Ensemble

Kala Ross (Ensemble, u/s Ilona, Delphine, Ensemble) is thrilled to return to the Alliance Theatre for the world premiere of The Preacher’s Wife! Her recent credits include For Colored Girls (Broadway), The Gospel Woman (Off-Broadway), Show Way (TYA-Kennedy Center), The Light (Chester Theatre), and Hands Up (Alliance Theatre). A Georgia native, Kala earned her M.F.A. from the University of Louisville and her bachelor’s degree in theatre from Tennessee State University. She was also a finalist in the True Colors Theatre August Wilson Monologue Competition. Kala is also a former theater teacher of Luella High School! Kala extends her heartfelt thanks to Hudson Artists Agency, her family, friends, cast, and production team. “With faith and hard work, any dream is possible.” Stay tuned for the June 2024 premiere of her independently produced web series, “Welcome to NY,” a comedy following her journey making it as an actress in New York City. Connect with Kala on Instagram @KalaRoss or visit her website www.kalaross.com.

Kala Ross
Kala Ross
Ilona, Delphine, Ensemble

Kala Ross (Ensemble, u/s Ilona, Delphine, Ensemble) is thrilled to return to the Alliance Theatre for the world premiere of The Preacher’s Wife! Her recent credits include For Colored Girls (Broadway), The Gospel Woman (Off-Broadway), Show Way (TYA-Kennedy Center), The Light (Chester Theatre), and Hands Up (Alliance Theatre). A Georgia native, Kala earned her M.F.A. from the University of Louisville and her bachelor’s degree in theatre from Tennessee State University. She was also a finalist in the True Colors Theatre August Wilson Monologue Competition. Kala is also a former theater teacher of Luella High School! Kala extends her heartfelt thanks to Hudson Artists Agency, her family, friends, cast, and production team. “With faith and hard work, any dream is possible.” Stay tuned for the June 2024 premiere of her independently produced web series, “Welcome to NY,” a comedy following her journey making it as an actress in New York City. Connect with Kala on Instagram @KalaRoss or visit her website www.kalaross.com.

Drew Shade (Ensemble, u/s Joe, Deacon Johnson, Deacon Lewis) [he/him] is the Founder of Broadway Black, creator of Off Book: The Black Theatre podcast, and The Awards formerly known as The Antonyos. He is elated to join the cast of such a special show here at The Alliance Theatre after a long hiatus from the stage. Drew would love to thank his family and friends for all their encouragement and support. Follow him on all socials: @drewshade & @broadwayblack 

Drew Shade
Drew Shade
Joe / Deacon Johnson / Deacon Lewis

Drew Shade (Ensemble, u/s Joe, Deacon Johnson, Deacon Lewis) [he/him] is the Founder of Broadway Black, creator of Off Book: The Black Theatre podcast, and The Awards formerly known as The Antonyos. He is elated to join the cast of such a special show here at The Alliance Theatre after a long hiatus from the stage. Drew would love to thank his family and friends for all their encouragement and support. Follow him on all socials: @drewshade & @broadwayblack 

Michael Stiggers (Ensemble, u/s Dudley, Henry) [he/him] is thrilled to be back at the Alliance Theatre! Broadway: Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Disney's The Lion King. ATL/Regional: Born For This (Alliance Theatre, Arena Stage), White Christmas (City Springs Theatre), and Les Miserables (Aurora Theatre). Film/TV: My Killer Reunion (Lifetime), Theatre School Dropouts (Amazon). Love to Maggie and Josie, the loves of my life and to Mom, whose favorite movie of all-time is The Preacher's Wife. IG: @yungstiggy 

Michael Stiggers
Michael Stiggers
Dudley / Henry

Michael Stiggers (Ensemble, u/s Dudley, Henry) [he/him] is thrilled to be back at the Alliance Theatre! Broadway: Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Disney's The Lion King. ATL/Regional: Born For This (Alliance Theatre, Arena Stage), White Christmas (City Springs Theatre), and Les Miserables (Aurora Theatre). Film/TV: My Killer Reunion (Lifetime), Theatre School Dropouts (Amazon). Love to Maggie and Josie, the loves of my life and to Mom, whose favorite movie of all-time is The Preacher's Wife. IG: @yungstiggy 

Alicia Thomas (Ensemble, u/s Beverly, Ensemble) feels extremely blessed to make her Alliance Theatre debut with The Preacher’s Wife. Alicia is a proud Detroit native. Favorite credits include Motherless, written by Cherise Kimoy, Lorrell in Dreamgirls, The Colored Museum and The Producers at American Stage, Alais in The Lion in Winter and Ernestine in Crumbs From the Table of Joy at freeFall Theatre, Beneatha in A Raisin in the Sun, and Raisin at Astoria Performing Arts Center. She’s had the pleasure of being a BGV for Laurént Grant Williams’ concerts. Alicia gives all the glory to God and many thanks to her family and friends for their love and support. Matthew 5:16. itsmealicia.com //  IG: @itsme_alicia_ 

Alicia Thomas
Alicia Thomas
Beverly / Ensemble

Alicia Thomas (Ensemble, u/s Beverly, Ensemble) feels extremely blessed to make her Alliance Theatre debut with The Preacher’s Wife. Alicia is a proud Detroit native. Favorite credits include Motherless, written by Cherise Kimoy, Lorrell in Dreamgirls, The Colored Museum and The Producers at American Stage, Alais in The Lion in Winter and Ernestine in Crumbs From the Table of Joy at freeFall Theatre, Beneatha in A Raisin in the Sun, and Raisin at Astoria Performing Arts Center. She’s had the pleasure of being a BGV for Laurént Grant Williams’ concerts. Alicia gives all the glory to God and many thanks to her family and friends for their love and support. Matthew 5:16. itsmealicia.com //  IG: @itsme_alicia_ 

Damani Van Rensalier (Ensemble, u/s Monique) is humbled to be joining the company of The Preacher’s Wife at the Alliance Theatre! This Paterson native holds her BFA in Dance from Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University. Recent theater credits include: vacation swing in Hadestown (Broadway), featured ensemble member in Hamilton (national tour and Broadway). Damani gives all glory to God and thanks her Mom, Dad, Brother, family, friends, and CESD for their love and support! Proverbs 3:5-6 {IG: @damanivr} 

Damani Van Rensalier
Damani Van Rensalier
Monique

Damani Van Rensalier (Ensemble, u/s Monique) is humbled to be joining the company of The Preacher’s Wife at the Alliance Theatre! This Paterson native holds her BFA in Dance from Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University. Recent theater credits include: vacation swing in Hadestown (Broadway), featured ensemble member in Hamilton (national tour and Broadway). Damani gives all glory to God and thanks her Mom, Dad, Brother, family, friends, and CESD for their love and support! Proverbs 3:5-6 {IG: @damanivr} 

Helen Marla White (Ensemble, u/s Julia) [she/her] I am truly excited to be a part of the cast of The Preacher’s Wife and thrilled to make my debut at the Alliance Theatre! Favorite credits include: Women/Singer in Bayard Rustin in Ashland at People's Light Theatre, Sangoma in Dreaming Zenzile at Arts Emerson, Roberta/Gloria in Sistas the Musical at St. Luke Theatre, Armelia in Ain’t Misbehavin’ at Theatre by the Sea and Surflight Theatre, Mrs. Phelps in Matilda at Surflight Theatre, Ms. Orna Mint in Light it Up at Cleveland Playhouse, Ensemble in The First Noel at the Apollo Theatre. Helen was a Music Performance major at The University of Kentucky. Helen would love to thank her friends, family, teachers, and coaches for all their love and support. Most importantly, she thanks God and her mother in heaven for loving her and being her best teacher (my Shero). Tituss, so happy to see your vision come to fruition. Psalm 23 and Prov. 3:5-6 

Helen Marla White
Helen Marla White
Julia

Helen Marla White (Ensemble, u/s Julia) [she/her] I am truly excited to be a part of the cast of The Preacher’s Wife and thrilled to make my debut at the Alliance Theatre! Favorite credits include: Women/Singer in Bayard Rustin in Ashland at People's Light Theatre, Sangoma in Dreaming Zenzile at Arts Emerson, Roberta/Gloria in Sistas the Musical at St. Luke Theatre, Armelia in Ain’t Misbehavin’ at Theatre by the Sea and Surflight Theatre, Mrs. Phelps in Matilda at Surflight Theatre, Ms. Orna Mint in Light it Up at Cleveland Playhouse, Ensemble in The First Noel at the Apollo Theatre. Helen was a Music Performance major at The University of Kentucky. Helen would love to thank her friends, family, teachers, and coaches for all their love and support. Most importantly, she thanks God and her mother in heaven for loving her and being her best teacher (my Shero). Tituss, so happy to see your vision come to fruition. Psalm 23 and Prov. 3:5-6 

Creative

Sarafina Bush (Costume Design) Broadway: The Who’s Tommy, The Outsiders, How to Dance in Ohio, For Colored Girls… (Tony Award Nominee), Pass Over. Off-Broadway: Oliver! (City Center Encores), Evanston Salt Costs Climbing (The New Group), Heroes of the Fourth Turning (Playwrights Horizons), Broadway Bounty Hunter (Greenwich House), Plot Points, Pass Over (LCT3). Regional: Peter Pan (National Tour), The Who’s Tommy (Goodman Theatre), The Outsiders (La Jolla Playhouse), Life After (Goodman Theatre), Afterwords (5th Avenue). Education: BA, Adelphi University.

Sarafina Bush
Sarafina Bush
Costume Design

Sarafina Bush (Costume Design) Broadway: The Who’s Tommy, The Outsiders, How to Dance in Ohio, For Colored Girls… (Tony Award Nominee), Pass Over. Off-Broadway: Oliver! (City Center Encores), Evanston Salt Costs Climbing (The New Group), Heroes of the Fourth Turning (Playwrights Horizons), Broadway Bounty Hunter (Greenwich House), Plot Points, Pass Over (LCT3). Regional: Peter Pan (National Tour), The Who’s Tommy (Goodman Theatre), The Outsiders (La Jolla Playhouse), Life After (Goodman Theatre), Afterwords (5th Avenue). Education: BA, Adelphi University.

Matthew Johnson Harris (Choreography) [he/him] is excited to be making his Alliance Debut! His favorite credits include choreographing Take Me To The World: A Tribute to Stephen Sondheim at Carnegie Hall and serving on the directing teams for the Tony Nominated Play Hangmen, Tony Winning Musical Revival of Parade, and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. He is a core instructor at the prestigious Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre Extension. In 2016, Matthew founded The Mosaic Project in collaboration with Middle Church, which raises money for different nonprofits that support marginalized groups and promotes interfaith through concerts and productions starring Broadway performers. Under his direction there have been 13 productions, featuring 100+ Broadway Performers, and over $100,000 raised. He aspires to tell stories that celebrate individual identity while simultaneously creating more intersectionality. He would like to thank Tituss Burgess for consistently supporting him in his career and Jovan Dansberry for helping him articulate his vision with precision. Special shout to Mark and Louie. He is a proud alum of The BTC Apprenticeship Program, The William Esper Studio, and Collin College. Instagram: @MatthewJohnsonHarris

Matthew Johnson Harris
Matthew Johnson Harris
Choreographer

Matthew Johnson Harris (Choreography) [he/him] is excited to be making his Alliance Debut! His favorite credits include choreographing Take Me To The World: A Tribute to Stephen Sondheim at Carnegie Hall and serving on the directing teams for the Tony Nominated Play Hangmen, Tony Winning Musical Revival of Parade, and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. He is a core instructor at the prestigious Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre Extension. In 2016, Matthew founded The Mosaic Project in collaboration with Middle Church, which raises money for different nonprofits that support marginalized groups and promotes interfaith through concerts and productions starring Broadway performers. Under his direction there have been 13 productions, featuring 100+ Broadway Performers, and over $100,000 raised. He aspires to tell stories that celebrate individual identity while simultaneously creating more intersectionality. He would like to thank Tituss Burgess for consistently supporting him in his career and Jovan Dansberry for helping him articulate his vision with precision. Special shout to Mark and Louie. He is a proud alum of The BTC Apprenticeship Program, The William Esper Studio, and Collin College. Instagram: @MatthewJohnsonHarris

Joshua D. Reid (Sound Design) [he/him] is a sound and systems designer based in New York City and has worked extensively on Broadway, Off-Broadway, Regional, and International Productions, National Tours, and Sound System Installations. Recent design selections include: RENT (Stratford Festival), A Christmas Carol (Broadway: w/Jefferson Mays, Tony Nomination, Outer Critics Circle Award), Ragtime (Calgary Philharmonic), Million Dollar Quartet (Theatre Calgary), A Little Night Music (Arizona Opera), Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas (National Tours), The Color Purple (National Tour), Girlfriend (TheatreWorks Hartford, CT Critics Circle Award), Jerry Springer: The Opera (Signature Theatre), A Time Like This (Carnegie Hall). Full credentials listed at ReidSoundDesign.com

Joshua D. Reid
Joshua D. Reid
Sound Design

Joshua D. Reid (Sound Design) [he/him] is a sound and systems designer based in New York City and has worked extensively on Broadway, Off-Broadway, Regional, and International Productions, National Tours, and Sound System Installations. Recent design selections include: RENT (Stratford Festival), A Christmas Carol (Broadway: w/Jefferson Mays, Tony Nomination, Outer Critics Circle Award), Ragtime (Calgary Philharmonic), Million Dollar Quartet (Theatre Calgary), A Little Night Music (Arizona Opera), Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas (National Tours), The Color Purple (National Tour), Girlfriend (TheatreWorks Hartford, CT Critics Circle Award), Jerry Springer: The Opera (Signature Theatre), A Time Like This (Carnegie Hall). Full credentials listed at ReidSoundDesign.com

James Sampliner (Music Supervisor/Music Director/Orchestrator/Arranger) is a highly regarded veteran music director, keyboardist, record producer, arranger, and orchestrator in the NYC theatrical community and beyond. NYC theater credits include: (Encores!) The Life (Bway) Prince Of Broadway, Honeymoon In Vegas, Legally Blonde, The Wedding Singer, BKLYN, Never Gonna Dance. (Off-Bway) Songs For A New World, Himself & Nora, The Mistress Cycle, Ghetto Superstar, Radiant Baby. Regionally, Mr. Sampliner has been involved in countless productions as MD and/or orchestrator for new musicals in development. Mr. Sampliner is also an MD for countless Broadway artists for concerts worldwide. Artists include Billy Porter (20 years as writing partner/MD), Tituss Burgess, Mandy Gonzalez, Patina Miller, Norm Lewis, Shoshana Bean, Eden Espinosa, Rob McClure, Bobby Conte, Amanda Green, Javier Muñoz, and countless others. TV work includes music for FX’s Pose (S2, Ep 6), American Horror Story (S11, Ep 6) and Fox’s Accused (S1, Ep 5). TV appearances include two specials for PBS’ American Songbook series (Patina Miller & Billy Porter, respectively). Recordings include seven original cast recordings, as well as with Billy Porter (At The Corner Of Broadway & Soul, Billy’s Back On Broadway, The Soul Of Richard Rodgers), Bobby Conte (Along The Way) & Tituss Burgess (Saint Tituss). Many thanks to this fantastic team for continuing to bring him along for the ride and he is happy to be back in the ATL after many years. IG: @samps42

James Sampliner
James Sampliner
Music Supervision / Music Direction / Orchestrations / Arrangements

James Sampliner (Music Supervisor/Music Director/Orchestrator/Arranger) is a highly regarded veteran music director, keyboardist, record producer, arranger, and orchestrator in the NYC theatrical community and beyond. NYC theater credits include: (Encores!) The Life (Bway) Prince Of Broadway, Honeymoon In Vegas, Legally Blonde, The Wedding Singer, BKLYN, Never Gonna Dance. (Off-Bway) Songs For A New World, Himself & Nora, The Mistress Cycle, Ghetto Superstar, Radiant Baby. Regionally, Mr. Sampliner has been involved in countless productions as MD and/or orchestrator for new musicals in development. Mr. Sampliner is also an MD for countless Broadway artists for concerts worldwide. Artists include Billy Porter (20 years as writing partner/MD), Tituss Burgess, Mandy Gonzalez, Patina Miller, Norm Lewis, Shoshana Bean, Eden Espinosa, Rob McClure, Bobby Conte, Amanda Green, Javier Muñoz, and countless others. TV work includes music for FX’s Pose (S2, Ep 6), American Horror Story (S11, Ep 6) and Fox’s Accused (S1, Ep 5). TV appearances include two specials for PBS’ American Songbook series (Patina Miller & Billy Porter, respectively). Recordings include seven original cast recordings, as well as with Billy Porter (At The Corner Of Broadway & Soul, Billy’s Back On Broadway, The Soul Of Richard Rodgers), Bobby Conte (Along The Way) & Tituss Burgess (Saint Tituss). Many thanks to this fantastic team for continuing to bring him along for the ride and he is happy to be back in the ATL after many years. IG: @samps42

Jennifer Schriever (Lighting Design) BROADWAY: Mother Play, A Strange Loop (Tony nomination), Death of a Salesman (Tony nomination), 1776, Birthday Candles, Lackawanna Blues, Grand Horizons, What the Constitution Means to Me, The Lifespan of a Fact, Eclipsed, John Leguizamo’s Ghetto Klown. SELECTED OFF-BROADWAY: Spain, White Girl In Danger, To My Girls, SuperHero (Second Stage); Which Way to The Stage, Collective Rage: A Play in 5 Betties, School Girls or the African Mean Girls Play (MCC); The Moors (Playwrights Realm); Shhhh (Atlantic); A Bright New Boise, My Broken Language, Thom Pain, Night is a Room (Signature); Strange Interlude (Transport Group). REGIONAL: The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical (ACT), A Transparent Musical (Mark Taper Forum, Los Angeles). OPERA: A Thousand Splendid Suns (World Premiere, Seattle Opera), Die Fledermaus, Pearl Fishers (Metropolitan); Faust, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, La Traviata (Mariinsky, Russia); and The Pearl Fishers (ENO). Obie Award for sustained excellence in design. TEACHING: Adjunct Professor, Purchase College. Mom: Henry. www.jenschriever.com.

Jennifer Schriever
Jennifer Schriever
Lighting Design

Jennifer Schriever (Lighting Design) BROADWAY: Mother Play, A Strange Loop (Tony nomination), Death of a Salesman (Tony nomination), 1776, Birthday Candles, Lackawanna Blues, Grand Horizons, What the Constitution Means to Me, The Lifespan of a Fact, Eclipsed, John Leguizamo’s Ghetto Klown. SELECTED OFF-BROADWAY: Spain, White Girl In Danger, To My Girls, SuperHero (Second Stage); Which Way to The Stage, Collective Rage: A Play in 5 Betties, School Girls or the African Mean Girls Play (MCC); The Moors (Playwrights Realm); Shhhh (Atlantic); A Bright New Boise, My Broken Language, Thom Pain, Night is a Room (Signature); Strange Interlude (Transport Group). REGIONAL: The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical (ACT), A Transparent Musical (Mark Taper Forum, Los Angeles). OPERA: A Thousand Splendid Suns (World Premiere, Seattle Opera), Die Fledermaus, Pearl Fishers (Metropolitan); Faust, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, La Traviata (Mariinsky, Russia); and The Pearl Fishers (ENO). Obie Award for sustained excellence in design. TEACHING: Adjunct Professor, Purchase College. Mom: Henry. www.jenschriever.com.

Teresa L. Williams (Scenic Design) is a theatre and film designer originally from New Orleans, LA and currently based in New York. Recent NY: Triple Threat (T32 Theatrical), The Cotillion (New Georges/The Movement Theatre Company), Til Death (Abingdon Theatre Company), Queens Girl in the World (Abingdon Theatre Company). Regional: Ragtime (American Stage Theater), Slave Play (Short North Stage), Into the Woods (Short North Stage), The Dutchman (American Stage Theater). Education: MFA in scenic design (NYU Tisch School of the Arts). tlwilliamsdesign.com @T_Louise_

Teresa L. Williams
Teresa L. Williams
Scenic Design

Teresa L. Williams (Scenic Design) is a theatre and film designer originally from New Orleans, LA and currently based in New York. Recent NY: Triple Threat (T32 Theatrical), The Cotillion (New Georges/The Movement Theatre Company), Til Death (Abingdon Theatre Company), Queens Girl in the World (Abingdon Theatre Company). Regional: Ragtime (American Stage Theater), Slave Play (Short North Stage), Into the Woods (Short North Stage), The Dutchman (American Stage Theater). Education: MFA in scenic design (NYU Tisch School of the Arts). tlwilliamsdesign.com @T_Louise_

Crew

Adriana Guerrero (Assistant Stage Manager) Broadway: The Book Of Mormon, Bad Cinderella, Some Like It Hot, and Tina: The Tina Turner Musical. National Tour: Beautiful: The Carole King Musical. Selected Off-Broadway: Here We Are, The Wrong Man, Seared, Moscow X6, and Hatef**k. BFA Montclair State University. Agradecida por siempre.

Adriana Guerrero
Adriana Guerrero
Assistant Stage Manager

Adriana Guerrero (Assistant Stage Manager) Broadway: The Book Of Mormon, Bad Cinderella, Some Like It Hot, and Tina: The Tina Turner Musical. National Tour: Beautiful: The Carole King Musical. Selected Off-Broadway: Here We Are, The Wrong Man, Seared, Moscow X6, and Hatef**k. BFA Montclair State University. Agradecida por siempre.

Mesa (Assistant Stage Manager) [they/them] is the National Vision BIPOC Stage Management fellow for the Alliance Theatre’s ‘23/24 season. Mesa’s Alliance Theatre credits from this season include Furlough’s Paradise (Stage Manager), A Christmas Carol (Assistant Stage Manager), and English (ASM). Other stage management credits include After Juliet (South Coast Repertory), Appropriate (SCR), A Small Man (SCR), The Elaborate Entrance of Chad Deity (Chance Theater), The SpongeBob Musical (CSU Fullerton), and Beauty and the Beast (CSUF), among others. Mesa was a ’23 fellow of Beyond the Stage Door, a rigorous stage management program in New York City designed to teach and uplift recent BIPOC college graduates. Member of Actor’s Equity Association. 

Mesa
Mesa
Assistant Stage Manager

Mesa (Assistant Stage Manager) [they/them] is the National Vision BIPOC Stage Management fellow for the Alliance Theatre’s ‘23/24 season. Mesa’s Alliance Theatre credits from this season include Furlough’s Paradise (Stage Manager), A Christmas Carol (Assistant Stage Manager), and English (ASM). Other stage management credits include After Juliet (South Coast Repertory), Appropriate (SCR), A Small Man (SCR), The Elaborate Entrance of Chad Deity (Chance Theater), The SpongeBob Musical (CSU Fullerton), and Beauty and the Beast (CSUF), among others. Mesa was a ’23 fellow of Beyond the Stage Door, a rigorous stage management program in New York City designed to teach and uplift recent BIPOC college graduates. Member of Actor’s Equity Association. 

Musicians

Matt Welsh (Rehearsal Pianist/Keyboard Sub) [he/him] has taken a break from traveling for long enough to make his Alliance Theatre debut :) Music has taken Matt through innumerable concert halls, theatres, schools, and churches nationally and internationally. Originally from Smyrna Ga, and has had the privilege of musically supporting many brilliant directors and music directors in his travels in Italy, NY, PA, NJ, AK, and CA including Baayork Lee, Hannah Ryan, Natalie Pound, Karen Olivo, Linda Goodrich, Jason Debord, Judy Cole, Luis Salgado, Sue Draus, and more. Matt earned a B.M. in Vocal Performance from KSU and M.M. in Orchestral Conducting from the College-Conservatory of Music in Cincinnati, OH. Matt is grateful for any opportunity to bring people together and effect positive change through music. Matt likes to splash in puddles, observe bugs, forage, and climb trees. Follow along @mattnastunes MWMaestro.com

Matt Welsh
Matt Welsh
Rehearsal Pianist / Keyboard Sub

Matt Welsh (Rehearsal Pianist/Keyboard Sub) [he/him] has taken a break from traveling for long enough to make his Alliance Theatre debut :) Music has taken Matt through innumerable concert halls, theatres, schools, and churches nationally and internationally. Originally from Smyrna Ga, and has had the privilege of musically supporting many brilliant directors and music directors in his travels in Italy, NY, PA, NJ, AK, and CA including Baayork Lee, Hannah Ryan, Natalie Pound, Karen Olivo, Linda Goodrich, Jason Debord, Judy Cole, Luis Salgado, Sue Draus, and more. Matt earned a B.M. in Vocal Performance from KSU and M.M. in Orchestral Conducting from the College-Conservatory of Music in Cincinnati, OH. Matt is grateful for any opportunity to bring people together and effect positive change through music. Matt likes to splash in puddles, observe bugs, forage, and climb trees. Follow along @mattnastunes MWMaestro.com

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