Barefoot in the Park

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About Celebration Arts

Celebration Arts provides performing and training opportunities in theatre, dance, and music through a celebrated annual theater season, which showcases some of the nation's top award-winning Black playwrights of the Black experience at our 100-seat theater.

We also present special events and programs including dance and music concerts, comedy shows, and Kids' Time, all dedicated to enhancing our community by showing stories that illuminate us as central subjects.
 

Our Founder

Founding the Celebration Dance Company in 1976, James Wheatley brought it under the umbrella of Celebration Arts in 1986. For many years, he directed the majority of the productions during our annual theater season. He is also a playwright and has notable achievements as an actor, singer and dancer, winning six Elly acting awards and an Elly for his original play, Petra. Mr. Wheatley received a Lifetime Achievement award from the Sacramento Area Regional Theatre Alliance and the Sacramento Chapter of the Links, Inc.

Director's Note

Troy Maxon was hand picked to be king, & then we watch him systematically dismantle it, & he does it with zeal. 

It’s admirable. It’s tragic.  

Troy Maxon was one of the greatest baseball players that ever lived, except for “...Babe Ruth and Josh Gibson.”,  says Jim Bono. 

Troy struck out a few times & “the next time up he hit the ball over the grandstand.” says Lyons. After that game 200 people lined up to shake his hand. 

Rose is pure good. Her patience and forgiveness are Biblical.

Troy does not deserve her - now that’s grace. 

“When you picked Rose, I was happy for you. 

That was the first time I knew you had some sense.”

 - Bono

Troy is hard on Cory so that Cory won’t be like Troy. 

He may have succeeded. 

It’s arguable.  

Bono is loyal to Troy until the end. 

Actually everyone is loyal to Troy until the end - sometimes out of fear. 

The story is beautifully devastating. 

It shakes one to the core in a way I had not realized until staging it.

August Wilson wrote plays that are meant to last. The 10 Play Cycle is an epic theatrical completion. Like Albee & Miller, he told human stories through large scopes. He wrote battles between good & evil - men who believe in free will but choose the self, & then the women who suffered because of their choices, & yet they still forgive. 

Wow. 

FENCES proves that people are flawed to perfection.

It’s why we go to the theater.

- Anthony D’Juan 

Cast

Creative Team

Meet the Company

Jasmine Washington

CORIE BRATTER

Jasmine Washington (she/her) is a theatre artist born, raised and based out of Sacramento, CA. Some acting credits include Celebration Arts’ & Carrie’s Touch’s A RAISIN IN THE SUN (Beneatha), Bike City Theatre Company’s SANKOFA (Imani), the DuSable Museum & Chicago International Puppet Festival’s re-staging of THE BLUEST EYE (Claudia), and Big Idea Theatre’s The REVOLUTIONISTS (Marianne). Jasmine is also a playwright, creating works including SUCCULENT & CALLUS. She recently served as assistant director for Celebration Arts' for colored girls who have considered suicide / when the rainbow is enuf as well. Jasmine is ecstatic for this opportunity. She would like to thank James Ellison III and Celebration Arts for the opportunity along with the cast, crew, and her loved ones for their continual support.

Donald "DJ" Lacy

PAUL BRATTER

BAREFOOT IN THE PARK is Donald Lacy’s third role in a production at Celebration Arts. Previously, he was in TOPDOG/UNDERDOG as Booth and starred as Walter Lee Younger in last season's production of A RAISIN IN THE SUN. Donald recently studied at Pacific Conservatory Theatre, and his first introduction to theatre was in 2017 when he played Orpheus in the show EURYDICE at Delta College. Since then, his favorite roles he has played are Bo Decker (BUS STOP), Mark Antony (JULIUS CAESAR), and Biff (DEATH OF A SALESMAN). He wishes upon everyone who comes and supports the production of peace, love, positivity, health, and wealth.

Darlene Tellis

MOTHER

Darlene Tellis is an actor, vocalist, writer, and costume designer from Detroit, Michigan. Darlene has a passion for storytelling and a knack for finding the heart of a character. Darlene brings a unique perspective to every role. Darlene is a skilled improviser with a particular interest in exploring the complexities of human relationships. Darlene’s credits include GUYS AND DOLLS, A STAR AIN’T NOTHIN’ BUT A HOLE IN HEAVEN, JAR THE FLOOR, MOJO, and a short film A MILE IN HER SHOES. Darlene is excited about joining the cast of BAREFOOT IN THE PARK.

Aaron Walker

VICTOR VELASCO

This is Aaron's first appearance with Celebration Arts in the role of Velasco and he is honored to have the opportunity. While now a Folsom resident, he has been involved in theater at the community and professional level in the Bay Area for the past two decades. He appeared previously with Shakespeare Santa Cruz, City Lights San Jose and Jewel Theater Co. Santa Cruz. Most recently with Falcon's Eye theater in Cyrano (De Guiche), Macbeth (Macduff) and A Flea in Her Ear in the dual roles of Victor Chanderbise and Poche. Aaron would like to express his deep gratitude and love to his two daughters who kept encouraging him to "get back into it" and to his wonderful wife to whom he owes more than he'll ever be able to repay.

Julian Jefferson

TELEPHONE REPAIR MAN

Julian Jefferson (Juice) has been passionate about acting, performing, and making people laugh since second grade. Since 2007, he has performed in over 25+ productions, portrayed 30+ characters, spent five years in haunted house work, and acted in five independent feature films in the Sacramento area. He cherishes every moment he is able to learn from his craft. He’d like to personally dedicate his comedic efforts for the “Telephone Repair Man” to an extremely special person in his life, Mrs. Aija Kiana Ross: “May the very sunrays themselves continue to permeate through the radiance of your natural beautiful smile.” Julian loves Celebration Arts and would like to thank the theater for this opportunity.

Stephen B. Walker

DELIVERY MAN

Stephen B. Walker is thrilled to return to the stage after a hiatus. Over the years, he has received enthusiastic praise for his heartfelt portrayals and dynamic presence in numerous productions. Having invested in diverse training across mediums, Stephen has worked both in front of and behind the camera while championing the arts within communities across California. He extends his deepest gratitude to his wife, Betty, for her unwavering love and support.

James Ellison III

Director

James Ellison is a seasoned local actor from Sacramento and the Artistic Director of Celebration Arts. His work spans from the stage to film and stand-up comedy, performing in venues from Sacramento to Los Angeles. Known for his dynamic range and captivating performances, James recently portrayed Thurgood Marshall in the one-man show THURGOOD at Celebration Arts. He also appeared as Ennis in BROKEOLOGY at B Street Theatre and performed as Jackson in SMART PEOPLE at Capital Stage. With decades of experience, James is a versatile performer and a passionate advocate for the performing arts.

Brooklynn T. Solomon

Assistant Director

Brooklynn is a graduate of Sacramento State with her BA in Theatre. She was most recently seen in Capital Stage’s FAIRVIEW (Jasmine), and Celebration Arts’ 2024 season opener of FOR COLORED GIRLS WHO HAVE CONSIDERED SUICIDE / WHEN THE RAINBOW IS ENUF (Lady in Red). Other recent credits include B Street Theatre’s BROKE-OLOGY (Sonia), Capital Stage’s THE ROYALE (Nina) and MISS BENNET: CHRISTMAS AT PEMBERLEY (Anne DeBourgh), Sacramento Theatre Company’s CLUE: THE MUSICAL (the Detective), GLORIA: A LIFE (ensemble/Fedna) and WHEN WE WERE COLORED: A MOTHER’S STORY (Ginger) and Big Idea Theatre’s BOOTY CANDY and SKELETON CREW (Shanita). Some of Brooklynn’s favorite performances done on the Celebration Arts stage include SUNSET BABY (Nina), STICK FLY (Taylor), THE BLUEST EYE (Claudia) and BOURBON AT THE BORDER (May). She is currently teaching with Celebration Arts’ Teen Magic and enjoys coaching performers young and old!

Qiana Hill-Ross

Stage Manager

Qiana is honored to return back to the theatre with Celebration Arts as the Stage Manager of Neil Simon’s BAREFOOT IN THE PARK. Previously, Qiana has been an actor, stage manager and assistant director. When she’s not stage managing, you can find her at The GreenHouse (South Natomas), where she has been serving the youth and community as their Partnership Director for almost three years. You might also see her working in the box office of Broadway Music Circus or Broadway Sacramento! She is thankful for the opportunity to share space with such a talented cast and production team.

Liz Baidoo

Assistant Stage Manager

Liz Baidoo is excited to return to Celebration Arts as the Assistant Stage Manager for Barefoot in the Park. With over 20 years of experience in strategic planning, marketing, and community engagement, Liz previously served as Marketing & Community Development Director at Celebration Arts until August 2024. She is now part of the executive team at The Sofia, Home of B Street Theatre as the Associate Executive Director. Liz is thrilled to support this talented cast and crew, and continue to contribute to the success of productions at the theatre she once called home.

Ashley Méndez

Scenic Designer

Ashley Méndez (she/her/hers) is a Mexican-American scenic designer based in San Francisco. Her work is informed by her multidisciplinary background in literature, performance, and direction一 exploring the relationship between text, body, and space. Select credits include Mary Glen-Fredrick’s Edit Annie directed by Leigh Rondon-Davis and Nailah Harper-Malveaux (Crowded Fire Theater/ Magic Theater), Deneen Reynolds-Knott’s Babes in Ho-lland directed by Leigh Rondon-Davis (Shotgun Players/ Ashby Stage), Fran Astorga's Exhaustion Arroyo: Dancing Trees in the Ravine directed by R. Réal Vargas Alanis and Fran Astorga (In the Margin/ Cutting Ball Theater), and The Thanksgiving Play directed by Carin Heidelbach (California State University, Stanislaus IG: @ashleymendez03, ashleymilagros.com

Michael Dugan

Lighting Designer

Michael is a theatrical designer, technician, and recent transplant to the Sacramento area. This will be his third show designing for Celebration Arts--having previously done the Lighting Design on TINKER THE TOY MAKER and CRUMBS FROM THE TABLE OF JOY--and his fourth production at CA overall. Before moving here, Michael previously did theater in the Seattle area ranging from a Set Design Internship with Village Theatre working on JASPER IN DEADLAND, Stage Managing with Jet City Improv for YES ANDERSON, Scenic Drafting for Washington Ensemble Theatre’s production of FEATHERS AND TEETH, as well as serving a 3 year stint as a Board Member and Technical Director for the student-run production company Undergraduate Theater Society where he also designed and built for several productions. Currently Michael works as the Master Electrician for Sac State’s Department of Theatre and Dance.

Quincy Middleton

Sound Designer

Quincy Middleton is a versatile Sound Designer, Audio Engineer, and DJ who has made a mark in the world of music and audio production. With a keen ear for detail and a passion for creating immersive soundscapes, Quincy has worked on a wide range of projects, from film and television to live performances and studio recordings. As a Sound Designer, Quincy brings stories to life through meticulously crafted soundtracks, enhancing the emotional impact and narrative depth of each project. Their expertise in Audio Engineering ensures that every track is polished to perfection, delivering crystal-clear sound quality that meets the highest industry standards. When Quincy steps behind the DJ booth, they transform the atmosphere with electrifying mixes that keep audiences on their feet. Their ability to read the crowd and seamlessly blend genres has earned them a loyal following and numerous accolades in the nightlife scene. With a commitment to pushing creative boundaries, Quincy continues to innovate and inspire, leaving a lasting impression on the world of audio and music.

Nashay Bouie

Costume Designer

Born and raised in Sacramento, California, the love of fashion for stylist Nashay Bouie took root in her bedroom as a young girl when she began designing Barbie doll clothes out of socks. Since then, Nashay has used fashion to explore the artist within and boldly express her creativity. Splitting time between her hometown of Sacramento and Los Angeles, Nashay has had the pleasure of styling many industry professionals, including Tami Roman, Mona Scott Young, Liane V, Don Benjamin, and singer/songwriter Candice. Her styled collections have graced the stages of Sacramento Fashion Week and her self-produced fashion shows for Elysium Live. Nashay's love for styling and set design is apparent in her attention to detail, eclectic combinations of textiles, and striking visual elements shown in her work. What sets Nashay apart is the unique blend of high fashion, and streetwear looks that she enthusiastically crafts for her clients. Her funky and innovative aesthetic will allow Nashay to continue growing in this competitive industry.

Mark Teemer Jr.

Props Designer

Liz Frederick

Intimacy Director

Liz Frederick (she/her) is an intimacy director working in the San Francisco and Sacramento area. She ensures stories can be told by choreographing moments of intimacy while protecting the boundaries of the entire production. She is delighted to be back in Sacramento working with Celebration Arts. She was last on stage at Celebration Arts in MY CHILDREN, MY AFRICA! Her intimacy choreography has been seen at Capital Stage, B Street Theatre, Aurora Theatre, College of Marin, Teatro Nagual, and Big Idea Theatre.

Erik Ross

Production Assistant

Erik Ross is excited to be making his debut at Celebration Arts as a production assistant for Neil Simon’s Barefoot on the Park, directed by James Ellison. Primarily known for his music-based writing and photography, Erik’s written work can be found in publications such as Complex Magazine and The Source Magazine. Erik’s noble moments and photography include capturing images of Nipsey Hussle and Takeoff (of Migos) in early parts of their careers and Andre 3000 during an OutKast reunion tour. He is ecstatic to develop valuable experience in the world of theatre production through Celebration Arts.

Imani Mitchell

Production Manager

Imani Mitchell is the Marketing & Community Development Manager at Celebration Arts and a multidisciplinary artist with experience in acting, directing, writing, and producing. At Celebration Arts, she has directed productions such as CRUMBS FROM THE TABLE OF JOY, WHAT TO SEND UP WHEN IT GOES DOWN, and ZORA & LANGSTON. She has performed with theaters including B Street Theatre, Capital Stage, and Celebration Arts. She is honored to support this production and is grateful to the cast, crew, and creative team for their dedication to the work.

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