Beyond Theater Blog

For Nicole Sheppard, acting is more than a performance, it’s a passport to purpose. With a dream to travel the world and make a lasting impact through her art

With over 25 years in acting and singing, Mike Davis brings a rare blend of charisma, wisdom, and experience to the Jasai Theater Festival stage. But for Mike, it’s not just about performance, it’s about progress.

Every great festival is powered by performers who bring truth to the stage, depth to the dialogue, and emotion to every line delivered. For LaPorscha Rodgers, this year’s Jasai Theater Festival is more than just another performance, it’s a platform to showcase the magic of original storytelling and a stepping stone toward her biggest dream

Eboni Ferguson is more than a poet. More than a filmmaker. More than a producer. She is a force of creative intention, using every word, frame, and project to educate, uplift, and represent

For over a decade, I-Know Brasco has been a respected name in the Philadelphia rap scene. A lyrical force and community-minded creative, Brasco brings more than rhymes, he brings responsibility

When you ask Jada Terrell what she wants out of life, she doesn’t hesitate: acting, filmmaking, entrepreneurship, and the freedom to do it all on her terms

For Reinna, the stage is a place of discovery, courage, and possibility. A newcomer to the world of independent theater, she steps into the Jasai Theater Festival ready to try new things, meet new people, and leave a lasting impression.

For Haiti Ock, music isn’t just a passion, it’s purpose. With more than 15 years in the game, this seasoned recording artist has graced stages nationwide, opened for industry heavyweights, and brought powerful energy to every performance.

For Kalief Ali, the dream is crystal clear, to act on stages across the world, sharing his passion and presence with audiences far and wide. But no matter how big the dream, Kalief's roots in Philadelphia's theater community run deep.

Lynn Shirley is on a mission to leave a mark. Not just on scripts or stages, but on hearts, communities, and the next generation of little Black and brown girls who need to see what's possible.

Tiffany Ford isn’t just building programs, she’s building futures. As the founder of Leaders & Legends Performing Arts Academy, Tiffany has spent over a decade creating safe, expressive, and transformative spaces for the youth of Southwest Philadelphia.

Visionary. Playwright. Branding architect. Cultural force. Jaret R. Barron is proof that when purpose meets execution, dreams don’t just manifest, they multiply.

Some people direct from the stage. Others move the crowd from behind the curtain. But Shari Barron? She curates every moment in between.

When you meet Rhonda Roberts, you quickly learn she’s not just an artist, she’s an uplifter. Her dream is simple yet profound, to sponsor others so they can pursue their dreams too.

From the moment he picked up a mic and stepped onto a stage, Dr. John W. Graves III recognized art as more than a passion, it was his purpose.

When we talk about legacy, mentorship, and impact in theater, Mel Williams is a name that resonates through generations of performers, including my own experience.