OnyxFest 2023

About the Director of “Tigone”:

Lawrence Blackwell is a consummate theatre artist, a Renaissance man of histrionics whose skills and talents on stage as well as backstage have made him an invaluable commodity wherever he has traveled. Former Assistant Professor of African-American Theatre and Performance at the University of Memphis, he not only taught and engaged his students in the art of theatre, he modeled theatre by his own work in theatre outside the classroom in the community as an actor, writer, director and administrator.

He served as technical director for Blues City Cultural Center’s school tour and Director of Education and Programs for Hattiloo Theatre, both theatre companies in Memphis, Tennessee. Presently, he is director of In-school programs at Memphis Music Initiative. He has a Masters Degree in Acting from the University of Louisville and a Bachelor’s Degree in Drama and Dramatic Theatre Art from Dillard University in New Orleans. He is a Ph.d candidate in Theatre, Literature, History and Criticism from Bowling Green State University. To date, he has completed all but his dissertation for his Ph.D. True to his diverse training, he has an endorsement in Stage Combat, Acting, Higher Education Administration and he is fluent in Spanish.

About the Actors of “Tigone”:

Michelle E. Mitchell is a native Memphian, Michelle E. Mitchell discovered her love for the arts at the early age of three. Since then, she has honed her talents and now has a host of acting, writing, directing, producing, dancing, and choreography credits both locally and across the country. Michelle graduated from Southern University and A&M College with a Bachelors of Science in Business Marketing with a concentration in sales. After obtaining her degree, she combined her business savvy with her devotion to the arts, and in 2015, founded “A Taste of Theatre”, a dinner theatre that combined the experience of live theatre with fine dining. Since then, she has successfully produced six shows, including stage plays, vignettes, and even concerts. Along with “A Taste of Theatre,” she portrayed Shayla Jackson in the box office film Brian Banks and is currently directing and producing her first film, “Spiffy.”

Lawrence Blackwell – Please see his bio above.

About the Production Manager of “Tigone”:

Deborah Frazier, the Co-founder of Blues City Cultural Center, brings a wealth of experience in managing and operating a non-profit community-based theatre company. Her passion lies in working with diverse populations, particularly those residing in underserved or marginalized communities. With a talent for crafting and executing arts-based programs that uplift self-worth, expand human potential, and transform lives, Deborah is a multifaceted force to be reckoned with, excelling as a director, writer, and actress.

Among her notable achievements, Deborah introduced several groundbreaking programs within the company. In her current role, Deborah serves as a consultant for the executive director of Blues City Cultural Center, offering her invaluable expertise to further the organization’s mission. Additionally, she imparts her knowledge as an adjunct instructor in Communication and Theater at Southwest Tennessee Community College, nurturing the talents of future performers and communicators.

Deborah Frazier’s dedication to the arts and her unwavering commitment to fostering positive change in the lives of those she serves continue to be a source of inspiration and transformation within her community and beyond.

About the Director of “The Heart of a Man”:

Rasheda Randle, often called the “Jane-Of-All-Trades,” is an award-winning SAG-AFTRA actress, filmmaker, entrepreneur, and licensed Georgia Realtor®. She graduated from Indiana State University with a BS in Radio/TV/Film; and was among the first graduating class of the music video production program at the New York Film Academy. She also received her MBA in Marketing and Human Resources from Indiana Institute of Technology.

Rasheda started her career in the industry as an intern for BET’s Rap City: The Basement, but eventually returned to Indiana to work in broadcast news at Indy’s local Fox station, and soon began freelancing as a production assistant for network reality TV shows and game shows. Realizing that acting is her true passion, Rasheda made the transition to stage, then to film, and later to TV as a host and reporter for Real Scene TV, an entertainment show that aired on Indy’s NBC affiliate.

In 2014, Rasheda relocated to Atlanta, Georgia to further her acting career. To date, she has starred in more than two dozen films and stage plays, including Things My Daddy Should’ve Told Me (Amazon, Tubi) – a film that she wrote, directed, and produced. Rasheda has also appeared in network TV shows such as, The Secret Life of Amy Bensen (Passion Flix) Covenant (AllBlk), The Act (Hulu), Shots Fired (Fox), and more. She was voted Best Actress at the TPN Film Fest (February and December 2016), named Best Actress at the 2017 TPN Awards, and received the 2017 Artist of Influence Award at the Peach Theatre Awards. She most recently starred as the leading lady in DP Demarco’s award-winning stage production, Her Lies, His Secrets; and you can catch her on season 2 of the Megan Good produced TV show, “A La Carte.”

Though her passion is acting, Rasheda’s goal is to build a brand known for providing opportunities for other artists through creative content and storytelling. She is the creative visionary of Ivy League Productions; and in 2018, she founded the Circle City Film Festival, an annual film festival designed to showcase independent filmmakers, actors, and creatives and promote career advancement through workshops, panels, and networking opportunities. Rasheda has been named a 2022 finalist for Junior Achievement of Central Indiana’s Best & Brightest Awards for her work with Circle City Film Festival.

About the Actors of “The Heart of a Man”:

Joshua Bruton AkA MaineManJo$h is an artist from Indianapolis, lN, who started his journey with Asante Children’s Institute. Joshua has been in a numerous theater, tv & films across America. Joshua is also a musical artist with 7 released projects across various platforms. Joshua believes winning is in the moment.

KJ Dullen is a 6’5″ “Big, Fine & Physical” Actor, comedian and award winning writer born in Indianapolis, Indiana. He is best known for his work ethic, promptness, versatility, excellent comedic timing and ability to brighten up any set he’s on with his personality and presence.

Jay Fuqua is an actor, singer, songwriter who has graced the stages throughout the Indianapolis theatre community since 2018. Fuqua has appeared in a number of stage plays and Broadway productions, such as The Wiz, RENT, The Bodyguard, and The Color Purple. OnyxFest is familiar territory for Fuqua as he has appeared in Vernon Williams’ “The Price of Progress” since 2019. Fuqua continues to blaze a trail for black actors looking to embark on new terrain in theatre. His passion and dedication to the arts is evident in every project he takes on. His journey in the theatrical industry is just beginning, and has a very promising future ahead.

Trent K. Hawthorne-Richards, also known professionally as Trent K. Haw-Rich or TKHR, is an actor, filmmaker, recording artist, content creator, writer, and entrepreneur from Indianapolis, Indiana. He has a list of credits that extend over 20 productions in film, theatre, and new media. TKHR has received training from such places as IU-Indianapolis, Indy Actors Academy, Online Actors Academy, and Second City: Chicago, getting his start with the now-closed Indy Apollo Theatre through Demarco Plays & Ivy League Productions.

Montez Lafayette is one of the most adaptable entertainers of his generation, finding success in acting, music and modeling. Born and raised in Indianapolis, IN, his love for the arts began as a toddler, where he would use his sense of humor to make family members laugh. At the age of 9, he began to write songs as a way to cope with the heartbreak of the untimely death of his father. While in high school, Montez recorded his first body of work and once graduating, decided to pursue a career as a recording artist. He followed that up with a subsequent career in acting while attending an audition with a friend. Montez released a DC fan film, Luke: A Batwing Series, making history. Which in turn gave him the title as Indiana’s Batwing.

Tijideen Rowley is from Indianapolis, IN. He graduated with honors from Indiana University with a bachelor’s degree in Theatre and African Diaspora Studies. Tijideen went on to obtain a bachelor’s degree in biblical counseling. His passion to enlighten people, create content, teach, and eventually be an entrepreneur pushed him to earn a master’s degree in Business Administration. Tijideen founded Actor’s Café Acting Class in 2016, an acting school that specializes in on-the-job-training for actors. His students are always working on projects and getting exposure in class and on social media. Tijideen has written, directed, and produced several feature and short films. Tijideen also has 20 years of theater experience extending back to his days at Indiana University. Tijideen is heavily involved in the Indianapolis theatre community and is the stage manager for the award-winning stage play “Her Lies, His Secrets” that is currently touring. Tijideen is also currently Director of Development and Training at the District Theater and the head of marketing at Community Church Indy and Minority Contractors Collaboration. Tijideen has a passion for inspiring and encouraging people and wants to use his gifts to impact the world.

About the Stage Manager of “The Heart of a Man”:

With a diverse background spanning the worlds of entertainment, mentorship, and event management, Jessica L. Lawson has dedicated her life to making a positive impact on the lives of those she encounters. Since returning to Indy, her commitment to empowering the next generation led her back to the direction of her dear mentor Deborah Asante of the Asante Art Institute, to mentor and guide young minds, instilling values of leadership, creativity, and self-belief to help them reach their full potential. She nurtured the talents of aspiring actors, sharing her knowledge and passion for the craft to help them shine on the stage and screen.

As a seasoned actor, for years, she used her talents to land her dream job in radio and captured the hearts of listeners with her charismatic on-air presence, bringing music, news, and inspiration into the homes and hearts of many. When it was time for a career change, she recognized the need for seamless organization and personalized support, and ventured into entrepreneurship, starting The Truth Lifestyle Management Group, that specializes in profession/personal assistant and project manager, helping busy professionals and creatives stay on top of their game.

Being known for having a “Servants Heart” in real life makes it easy for her to excel behind the scenes, orchestrating the magic of live performances and events, ensuring that every production runs seamlessly, just like clockwork and that her performers and crew feel cared for. Her mission is to continue touching lives, fostering growth, and creating unforgettable moments. Jessica often quotes her father saying, “Your great kindness will never be forgotten,” and hopes that kindness continues to lead the way as she travels through life’s incredible journey of transformation and inspiration!”

Review of “5 Moods of Black Anguish” by Plays with John & Wendy, November 7, 2023

Josiah Ray McCruiston is a multifaceted artist, spiritual leader, and teacher from Gary, IN. With an infectious enthusiasm for his craft, Josiah has become a beloved figure in theater and beyond. In addition to his impressive resume in theater and music, Josiah Ray McCruiston has also made a name for himself in the world of education and art integration. For several years, he worked as a gallery interpreter and actor at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, where he brought exhibits to life and engaged visitors of all ages with his dynamic storytelling and performance skills. Josiah’s dedication to education and mentorship extends beyond his work at the museum. He has also worked as an arts integration specialist and coach for nationally ranked speakers, poets, and actors with the National Forensic Association circuit, helping to guide and inspire the next generation of talented performers.

Josiah’s work as a director has been especially noteworthy. He has directed productions at the Fonseca Theatre, where he has brought his unique vision and creative approach to the stage, and has also worked with the Christian Youth Theater (CYT), helping to shape the talents and skills of young performers. He has found great success as a workshop and masterclass coordinator with The Asante Art Institute, The Performing Arts Conservatory, The Indiana Arts Commission, Clause McNeal Productions, Fonseca Theatre Company, and the Forum for Theological Exploration.

In addition to his work as a director, Josiah has been heavily involved in the Indianapolis theater community, serving as a community liaison for the Indiana Repertory Theatre and working tirelessly to promote and support the arts in his community. He has also completed Miesner training at The Phoenix Theatre, honing his craft and perfecting his skills as a performer and a director. With his infectious energy and unbridled enthusiasm, Josiah Ray McCruiston is a true force to be reckoned with in the world of theater and beyond.

He currently serves as a Worship Leader and Minister at the Historic Witherspoon Presbyterian Church and as an effective arts educator. His passion for his craft and his unwavering commitment to his faith and his community make him a truly unique and inspiring figure. He is humble by this amazing opportunity and is looking forward to what will come next.

About the play:

Inspired by the works of Zora Neale Hurston, Langston Hughes, and August Wilson, this excerpt of a larger work entitled “5 Moods of Black Anguish” is an awe-inspiring theatrical masterpiece. Weaving a tapestry of storytelling, love for Black deities, and profound poetic expression. With a symphony of emotions and spiritual oration, it immerses audiences in a transcendent experience, revealing the triumphs, struggles, and resilience of Black culture. This enchanting play resonates with the glory and truth of the human experience, capturing the essence of collective anguish and illuminating the path toward liberation and empowerment. Prepare to be captivated by the artistry that unfolds on stage, where every word and gesture reverberates with power and resonance. You don’t want to miss this! 

About the Actors of “5 Moods of Black Anguish”:

Angela Wilson-Holland is a singer, songwriter, and actress who’s been singing since the young age of 4. Originally from E. St. Louis, IL, Angela sang in church and school choirs and played the flute in Marching, Jazz, and Concert bands until she moved to Evansville at the start of her Junior year in high school. In Evansville, she put down the flute (in school) and grew her love of acting. In her senior year of high school, she played Evilene in “The Wiz.” Angela’s acting debut was in Evansville Civic Theater’s adaptation of Meshuggah Nuns; NunSense Musical, and went on to play several roles, including starring as Rose in “August Wilson’s Fences” for Stage Two Productions. Angela moved to Indianapolis from Evansville, IN, right at the onset of COVID, so it took her a couple of years to get her foot in the door in Indy’s illustrious Arts Community. This is Angela’s second year in OnyxFest. In her first year in OnyxFest, she played Everybody’s FAVORITE Aunt Helen in Vernon Williams’s “A Noice in the Attic.” You may have also seen her in “Democracy Hypocrisy” by V. Williams, Rain, & Ms. Latrice, in addition to V. William’s “Price of Progress.” Angela is excited to welcome you into her home… Come on in and have some pie!!!!

Byron Holmes is an educator, lecturer, promoter, mentor, entertainer, and activist with a passion for emphasizing equity and exposure among underserved communities. The founder and chief executive of The Phresh Collective, The High Culture Streetwear Brand, and the Africana Academy; with concentration in the areas of mixed media, marketing, brand management, event promotion, coordination, and education. He has been a member of the Indianapolis Teaching Fellows, an officer & content contributor for the Black Educators of Excellence, a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and Marshall University’s Carter G Woodson Lyceum for Teach Black History. Certified in Restorative Circles, Restorative Systems of Behavioral Management, Culturally Relevant Teaching, CPI, CPR, and First Aid. Highly skilled in communication, motivation, and enthusiastic delivery of content, with a passion for working alongside those in the community through consistent engagement, continuous encouragement, and empowerment.

Stephen Martin Drain is a prolific singer, songwriter, and actor who has many honors in his entertainment career. Martin Drain has starred in theatrical productions such as The Wiz, Fan Me Lord, My Revival, and Who Killed Black Pride? Stephen’s strong melodic vocals and love of R&B and gospel music have led him to create the musical group, Soul2Soul, which has enjoyed a storied reputation for their acapella sound and stirring performances. Martin Drain’s love of music also extends to his passion for teaching where he has assumed the role of Vocal Director of over four productions ranging from the Asante Children’s Theater and Brown Ink Entertainment.

Clarissa Todd is a 20 yr. old artist who was born and raised in Indianapolis, IN. At a young age, she began singing and dancing at Witherspoon Presbyterian Church, where her passion for performing was nurtured. At the age of 15, she joined the Asante Arts Institute ( formerly known as The Asante Children’s Theatre) and was taken under the wings of Deborah Asante and was taught the art of Acting, Singing, Dancing, Writing, and Directing. At the age of 17, Clarissa wrote and directed her first short film titled Harlem Blues. Since then, Clarissa has interned and performed with the Indianapolis Shakespeare Company, starred in an OnyxFest play as well as a short film titled 365. She has performed in several plays at Conner Praire in connection with A.C.T since 2018 and is now a full-time Actor at the Children’s Museum Of Indianapolis. She is also currently in an amazing and informative show at The Indiana State Museum titled Str8 up Fredrick Douglass, which she helped write with the cast. Clarissa would like to thank everyone who has taken the time to mentor and expose her to the world of theatre because they have shaped her into the woman she is today.

Jetta Vaughn is a writer, stand-up comedian, and actress who has performed all over the United States. This is her 2nd year in Onyx Fest and her 4th theater performance. Jetta is the owner of Jetta V Ent. LLC, whose company slogan is “Bringing Fun to the Workplace,” through stand-up comedy, HR consulting, and wellness. Jetta earned her Bachelor of Science in Political Science with a minor in English Literature from North Carolina Central University. She then went to London to earn her Master of International Business from Hult International Business School. Jetta is the volunteer Sponsorship Chair for Rebuilding Together Indianapolis and serves on the Board of United Schools of Indianapolis. Jetta is also currently the reigning champion of the NCAA’s Annual Bake Off!

Review of “Right Behind You” by Plays with John & Wendy, November 7, 2023

Deborah (D.L.) Patrick is a native Detroiter who holds a B.A. in Creative Writing from New York University. She has studied with Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Charles Fuller and OyamO. Her play, STUDY IN BLACK (a.k.a. THE STUDY), about the infamous U.S. Public Health Service Study of Untreated Syphilis at Tuskegee, was produced by the Frank Silvera Writers Workshop, NYC, and was nominated for an AUDELCO Award. Her play, PASSAGES, was produced by Plowshares Theatre Company, Detroit, supported by a grant from the Michigan Council for the Arts and Cultural Affairs.

Her play, ECLIPSED: THE LIFE AND DEATH OF GLADYS ATKINSON SWEET, was selected by The Playwrights Group, NYC, for a public reading in 2022. A monologue from her play, SALLIE’S CRYING TREE, was selected for Barter Theatre for Black Stories, Black Voices festival, and was performed in 2023 on the Gilliam Mainstage. She is a 2023 finalist for Think Tank Theatre’s TYA Playwrights Festival for her play ACTIVE SHOOTER, and is working on two new full-length dramas, DEMOLITION MAN, about a black WWII veteran breaking barriers; and INDUSTRY: DIEGO RIVERA IN DETROIT.

About the play:

As an elderly black woman lies in a coma, dying of COVID-19 in the early days of the pandemic, her daughters and granddaughter reminisce about their experiences with her in the time leading up to her demise. This play asks the questions, what do we owe one another, and what do we owe ourselves.

About the Director of “Right Behind You”:

Megan Simonton, a native of Indianapolis, IN, is no stranger to the arts and stage. She is a classically trained vocalist, having performed both locally and internationally. In addition, Megan has an incredible passion for theatre, having started in productions such Les Miserables, Black Nativity, Memphis the musical, and For Colored Girls”.

In 2016, Megan made her directorial debut in her interpretation of “For Colored Girls” as well, and she quickly fell in love with directing and playwriting. In 2017, she, along with her partner, began their first original production, “Village Voices: Notes from the Griot”, which she wrote and directed. That production is still currently touring throughout Indiana and surrounding areas. This is her directing debut at OnyxFest, as she participated for the first time last year as an actor. And as if she needs more to add to her artistic resume, Megan is also a freelance model and motivational speaker. She tries to utilize her many skills and talents to give back to her community.

About the Actors of “Right Behind You”:

Beverly Harney is 42 years old, born in Indianapolis, IN, and a mother of 4. Beverly went to and graduated from North Central High School. Her first stage play was Miss Communication in 2018. She is also a plus-size model and has been doing that since 2015. Beverly loves being versatile, new opportunities, and striving for greatness.

Faye Holmes was born with a passion for acting, and a strong affinity for music. She began her career in entertainment with her debut in various types of music. She performed vocally with the Indianapolis Gospel Symphonic Choir, national recording artist Lamar Campbell and Spirit of Praise, and performed chorus for The Sixties at The American Cabaret Theatre. Faye began performing in films including Forgive Me Father (Ivan Rogers), Department of Corrections (DP Demarco Plays), and Savannah’s Fire (Knap P Head Productions). Theatre credits included To Kill a Mockingbird (Edyvean and Civic Theatres), Vagina Monologues (Nickel Plate Arts Theatre), For Colored Girls (DP Demarco Plays), A female Maji in Joseph and Mary (directed by Rose Kleiman), and I Feed You Defiance, (LCP Life Change Productions). Faye also served as backstage assistant for The Performing Arts Academy, Asante Children’s Theatre, and assistant director for Life Change Productions (Rain Wilson).

With an extreme passion for music, LaToya Jay has developed her talent into a new love for acting. In 2014, LaToya took a leap of faith into the art of acting, by landing a role in the phenomenal stage production of the “Emmett Till Story, An American Lynching.” Since that very day there has been no turning back with more roles like: Leading lady “Savannah,” of the Urban Hit film turned stage production “Waiting To Exhale,” one of a few lead vocalist in the urban Stage Musical “Black Nativity,” and “Macy” the strong willed, and strong faith walking woman of the hit stage play “Dear Diary.” All these roles helped mold and shape the actress she has become today! Having landed her first leading role in a feature film “Seeking Counsel,” in year 2016 and working diligently to strengthen her talent and knowledge of this industry, this woman is just getting started!

Kaitlynn Nailon is happy to be playing the role of “Catherine” in the production “Right Behind You.” You may have seen her in KaidyDid productions, “Dreamgirls,” and Shandrea Funnye presents “Almost 30.” Kaitlynn is currently a title specialist and has one beautiful daughter. She hopes you enjoy the show and that it helps provide you some joy.

Alicia Sims is a highly motivated, outgoing, inclusive and energetic artist who specializes in performance art, music and creative development. She is a Teaching Artist at Asante Children’s Theatre, and has performed with the Buck Creek Players, Victory Through Vision Productions, and for the IUPUI School of Liberal Arts. Alicia performed in the OnyxFest 2022 play “Your Love Will Be Judged” by Gabrielle Patterson.

Tamara Taylor is a native of Gary, IN, and has appeared in several theatrical productions such as “Dream Girls,” “Love’s Knot,” “Get Them to Church,” “Roxie,” and “Esther,” just to name a few. Tamara has a passion for the arts, and enjoys putting life into each character she presents. Tamara enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, family, and friends. Tamara is currently working on her Doctorate degree and is a student at Indiana Wesleyan University. “Right Behind You” has been an exciting opportunity in which Tamara will bring life to Alexis and share her true passion in this role.

Review of “Babe” by Plays with John & Wendy, November 7, 2023

Delores Thornton is a Publisher, Author, Filmmaker, and Literary Entrepreneur who has received numerous awards. She is a licensed, ordained minister and a member of several organizations, most notably, the African American History Committee Advisory Board. She is also a certified Bereavement Facilitator with Brooke’s Place.

Thornton was honored as a Literary Trailblazer by EU (Everything Underground) in 2017 and a Local Literary Legend by Go On Girl Book Club in 2018. She is a graduate B.A. (Valedictorian) of Simmons College of Kentucky (HBCU) and has a Master’s Degree in Theology from Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis. Thornton has a passion for sharing the history of and to her Mighty People. The author of 7 books, 4 plays, and 4 films (1 feature and 3 shorts), Thornton recently starred in her short film IDA MAE 2 during the Short Film Festival at Arts for Lawrence (2022). Thornton also starred as Mari Evans in BLACK IS MY COLOR during OnyxFest 2022.

About the play:

Based on a true story about how therapy helps reveal the buried truths of an 82-year African American woman who reaches inner depth of self-realization.

About the Directors of “Babe”:

Delores Thornton – I absolutely love directing, and any age group or genre works for me. I’ve Directed one feature and three shorts, one of which was selected for Fort Shorts 2022 at Arts for Lawrence.

Trease Sears is an author/screenwriter/playwright, director, producer, and the founder of World Changers School of the Arts. She has a heart for people and desires to see them fulfill their purpose.

About the Actors of “Babe”:

Gene Howard (nickname Tommy). A veteran actor. Howard’s first movie was “Unequally Yoked part 2” followed by “A Bell Family Christmas”. JP Productions gave him his first break. Howard attended Tijideen Rowley’s Actor’s Cafe, where he honed his acting skills.

Kimberly McMurray is a creative entrepreneur who has numerous artistic merits, both locally, in Terre Haute, IN, and regionally. From planning and facilitating arts events, to stage, television and film directing, acting, and writing.

Leondra Radford is elated to join the cast as “Babe.” Previous credits include Listen To Your Mother, where she performed an original piece, and For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When The Rainbow Is Enough as The Lady In Brown. Leondra is a Storyteller and regularly participates and places in storytelling slams. Additionally, she is a playwright, poet, Director at an alternative school, but above all, she is a Child of The Most High.

Chris Sears is an emerging and versatile actor known for his captivating performances on both stage and screen. Most notably in the short film, Ida Mae 2 (2022) as Dr. Hummons, and as a security guard in The Siblings 2023. With a profound passion for the craft of acting, Chris brings authenticity to every character he portrays.

Born and raised in Indianapolis, Indiana, Dr. Cheryl Talley Black is on assignment at Messiah Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Stephen J. Clay as Church Administrator and Praise Team member. Dr. Black, an accomplished actress, has appeared in the stage plays, “Silent Savior” and “Our Weekly Church Bulletin”. In “Black Voices from the Past,” she’s portrayed Bea Moten and Fannie Lou Hamer. She was also cast in the feature film Airing Dirty Linen.

Delores Thornton is everything Artsy: an author, publisher, playwright, screenwriter, director, and producer. A Spoken Word Artist, Thornton is also a Storyteller and a curator of art exhibitions. Thornton, who starred as Mari Evans in the OnyxFest 2022 play Black Is My Color, is currently working on an upcoming play, “Anybody Seen Junebug?”.

About the crew members of “Babe”:

La Tosha Walker is an Indiana native and owner of Star Advocates Inc. and Tsassy Photos. Former freelance writer for the now defunct Indiana Herald Newspaper, La Tosha also loves to volunteer in her community and help others. In addition to working on sound and lighting on stage and at filming sites, La Tosha also enjoys creating flyers and other digital content.

Denetia Woodruff has been putting her special touch on personal and professional projects for as long as she can recall. Her creativity and knack for detail makes her highly sought after in executing the vision of others. Denetia’s ability to actively listen and communicate effectively is impeccable. She is family and community oriented, earning her respected names such as “Mama Neicy” and “DIY Queen”.