BWW Stage Mag Black Nativity - Brévo Theatre Stage Mag

Brévo Theatre Presents

"Black Nativity"

 
at The Sandrell Rivers Theater & Broward Center
 
Written by Langston Hughes
Directed by Zaylin Yates
Choreographed by TM Pride
       
       

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Song List

1). Joy to The World - Whitney Houston, The Georgia Mass Choir

2). Most Done Traveling - Arranged by Brévo Theatre, lyrics by original cast of Black Nativity.

3). My Way Is Cloudy by Latrice Pace (Dominion Entertainment Group)

4). No Room by Jennifer Myles (Dominion Entertainment Group)

5). Noel - Selah

6). O Jerusalem In the Morning - Arranged by Brévo Theatre

7). Jesus' Birth - Arranged by Brévo Theatre

8). Poor Little Jesus - Sonya Williams (Dominion Entertainment Group)

9). What You Gonna' Name That Pretty Little Baby - Arranged by Brévo Theatre, lyrics by original cast of Black Nativity.

10). Go Tell It On The Mountain - Maverick City Music, Chandler Moore, Melvin Crispell III, Mav City Gospel Choir

11). Mighty Spirit - Larnelle Harris

12). O Come All Ye Faithful (Bless the Lord) - The Spirituals

 

****Intermission - 10 minutes****

 

1).   Glorious - Martha Munizzi

2). Press In Your Presence - Shana Wilson

3). You Are Great - Moses Bliss, Festizie, Chizie, Neeja, Son Music, Ajay Askika

4). Let There Be Peace on Earth - Ricky Dillard

5). I Wanna Be Close - Kevin LeVar & One Sound

6). Psalm 27 - Green Worship Music, Nathainel Bassey

7). Mary Did You Know - Zebulin Ellis, Andrea Connor (Dominion Entertainment Group)

8). Joy to The World (Reprise) - Whitney Houston, The Georgia Mass Choir

Cast

Jaylen Bell
Dancer (u/s) Joseph
Jamaine Benjamin Jr.
Wise Man/ Ensemble
Thamar Capretta
Villager / Ensemble
Daniella Coby
Villager/ Ensemble
Anika Dara
Villager/ Ensemble
Melvin Dawson
Wise Man/ Ensemble
Jahmiah Defoe
Villager/ Ensemble
Evelaure Denis
Narrator (Faith)
Christopher Gamble
Villager/ Ensemble
Meredith Gustave
Dancer
John Hamilton
Narrator (Hope)
Liam Hierro
Wise Man/ Ensemble
Cameron Holder
Narrator (Love)
Chelsea Larose
Villager/ Ensemble
Ajia Northern
Mary/Assistant Choreographer
SheKendra Parrish
Villager/ Ensemble
Sarah Romeo
Villager/ Ensemble / (u/s) Narrator (Hope)
Leilani Del Rosario
Dancer
Antonia Scott
Dancer
Keith Wilson
Joseph/Dancer

Creative Team

Zaylin Yates

Founding Managing Director/Director/Props Designer

Terrence Pride

Producing Artistic Director/Choreographer/Costume Designer

Naomi Ray Barnett

Stage Manager

Giovanny Montufar

Creative Director

Elijah Wood

Musical Director

Isis Roberts

Vocal Director

Lauren Dixon

Lighting Designer

MNM Theatre

Set Designer/Builder

Harold Petion

Assistant Stage Manager

Kayla Santiago

Assistant Stage Manager

Donnell Mccant

Drummer

Charlemagne Sands

Bassist

Abasi

Djembe Player

Ann Payne Nimmons

Props/Costume Assistant

Constance Ivan

Visual Artist / Set Painter

Meet the Company

Jaylen Bell

Dancer (u/s) Joseph
Jaylen Bell - Dancer (u/s) Joseph Jaylen is excited to be in his first Brévo Theatre production.

Jamaine Benjamin Jr.

Wise Man/ Ensemble
Jamaine Benjamin Jr. - Wise Man/ Ensemble Jamaine (Jae) Benjamin Jr. is a 24-year-old Afro-Caribbean American actor who began performing at age 13. The African Heritage Cultural Arts Center served as his “dojo,” where he honed his craft and developed a passion for storytelling. A graduate of Dr. Michael M. Krop Senior High School’s theatre magnet program, Jae also discovered his talents in choreography and directing. He has since performed throughout South Florida, connecting with audiences from all walks of life. Through his dedication and artistry, Jae strives to inspire young Black and Brown youth to embrace their potential and shape the future of their communities.

Thamar Capretta

Villager / Ensemble
Thamar Capretta - Villager / Ensemble Thamar Capretta (Ensemble) is excited to be part of Black Nativity’s production. Her love for music began in her high school choir, where she first discovered the joy of performing. Thamar continues to share her passion for singing at Church by the Glades and First Baptist Fort Lauderdale. She has also performed as part of an ensemble with the classic rock band Foreigner. Thamar made her stage debut in Black Nativity at Brévo Theatre and is thrilled to return for her second production. She is grateful for the opportunity to grow as an artist and be part of such an inspiring creative team.

Daniella Coby

Villager/ Ensemble
Daniella Coby - Villager/ Ensemble Daniella is super excited to be doing her first show with Brevo Theatre. She loves singing, teaching dance, and creating content on social media (all handles @iamdaniellacoby). Daniella has appeared in recent shows such as Little Shop of Horrors, Hair, Firebringer, and Ride the Cyclone. Daniella would like to thank her family and closest friends for all of their love and support!

Anika Dara

Villager/ Ensemble
Anika Dara - Villager/ Ensemble ANIKA DARA is an artist & entertainer hailing from Brooklyn, New York. Of her many hats, she especially enjoys singing, dancing & acting. This will be her second production with Brevo Theater (Black Nativity), as part of the ensemble. A lover of performing on camera & stage- she also plays instruments including the guitar, and ukulele. As well as spending some of her time writing. One of her favorite things about the theater is getting to work & play with friends that are family. She thanks God, her family, friends, & everyone that’s shared support and guidance on her journey. You can keep up with her at www.anikadara.com & follow her on all social media & streaming platforms at @anikadara.

Melvin Dawson

Wise Man/ Ensemble
Melvin Dawson - Wise Man/ Ensemble Melvin C. Dawson, III was born December 26, 1989 and from an early age, Melvin discovered a passion for performing through acting, singing, and dancing. Over the years, that passion blossomed into a dynamic career in the arts. He has graced the stage in numerous theatrical productions, including Grease, The Music Man, Purlie, Zen Substitute, Pippin, Li’l Abner, Copacabana, Avenue Q, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown, and The Soul of a Black Woman. Beyond the stage, Melvin’s powerful voice and musical talent have allowed him to share platforms with world-renowned artists such as Celine Dion, Fantasia, KeKe Wyatt, Dave Hollister, Ledis, Carl Thomas, Christopher Williams, Bishop Melvin Dawson & Genesis Fellowship Delegation, Meachum Clarke & Company, and Bobby Jones, among others. Now stepping into a new chapter, Melvin is continuing his musical journey by writing and producing his own original music. With his first solo project on the horizon, he remains dedicated to inspiring audiences and sharing his gift with the world.

Jahmiah Defoe

Villager/ Ensemble
Jahmiah Defoe - Villager/ Ensemble Jahmiah is an honor student in the 10th grade at Dillard 6-12 High. While majoring in Theater, she has discovered her love of instruments and is currently playing the piano. In addition, she plays the tenor saxophone in Dillard’s Marching Band. Jahmiah loves to dance, act and sing. She is a member of Spotlights at Broward Center for the Performing Arts where she has participated in several of their pilot productions. Jahmiah is also choreographing L.A. Lee YMCA’s Teen Broadway production due on stage in February 2026.

Evelaure Denis

Narrator (Faith)
Evelaure Denis - Narrator (Faith) Evelaure Denis is a Haitian-born actress and singer based in South Florida. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the New World School of the Arts/University of Florida, where she appeared in productions including Lucky Stiff (Rita), On the Town (Flossie’s Friend), and Ragtime (Ensemble). Beyond her academic work, she performed in Why Mosquitoes Buzz (Rabbit) and took on lead and supporting roles in Heroes in My House with Fantasy Theatre Factory. Her favorite role, Saida in Oskuneru, remains closest to her heart for its emotional depth and the opportunity it offered to explore human resilience.

Christopher Gamble

Villager/ Ensemble
Christopher Gamble - Villager/ Ensemble Christ is excited to join this production for its' second year.

Meredith Gustave

Dancer
Meredith Gustave - Dancer Meredith is excited to be in her first Brévo Theatre production.

John Hamilton

Narrator (Hope)
John Hamilton - Narrator (Hope) John Hamilton is a Miami-based actor originally from the Turks and Caicos Islands. He discovered his passion for performance at age fifteen, transforming humble mirror rehearsals into a growing career on South Florida stages. His credits include Once on This Island (TonTon Julian) with the Black Theatre Alliance of South Florida, Crowns at the African Heritage Cultural Arts Center, and Black Nativity with Brévo Theatre. John brings authenticity, heart, and cultural pride to every role. Beyond the stage, he explores storytelling through photography and cinematography.

Liam Hierro

Wise Man/ Ensemble
Liam Hierro - Wise Man/ Ensemble Liam Gael Hierro, originally from New York City, is a passionate 16-year-old performer with a strong background in musical theater. He has played major roles including Link Larkin in Hairspray at Parkway Middle and Young Tarzan in productions at Dillard High School. Most recently, he starred as Troy in High School Musical with Brevo Theater. Additional credits include The Wiz, D.W. Washburn/Saved, and JACKED!. Liam has received training from Melvin Huffnagle and Terrence Pride. He currently attends Dillard High School, where he studies musical theatre, and plans to pursue a BFA in college. He brings energy and heart to every role.

Cameron Holder

Narrator (Love)
Cameron Holder - Narrator (Love) Cameron Holder is a local Miami actor and writer, 26, has his BFA Theatre degree from Florida International University. He is excited to return to Brevo Theatre and perform Black Nativity once again. He has recently done a national tour with Bright Star Theatre based in North Carolina featuring shows such as “Sleepy Hollow”, “Tell-Tale Tale”, and “Franken-Bully”. Some of his theatre credits from SoFlo are “Avenue Q”, “Romeo & Juliet”, “Taming of the Shrew”, “Christiana Lysistrata”, “Charlotte’s Web”, “Cinderella”, “From Brooklyn to Boca”. When not performing, Cameron likes to read, travel, and spend time with friends and family. He would like to thank everyone for coming to support the arts and rejoice in the beautiful craft of live theatre.

Chelsea Larose

Villager/ Ensemble
Chelsea Larose - Villager/ Ensemble Chelsea Larose is a performing and technical theatre artist. She has been a performer since six-years old doing Aladdin Jr. Chelsea completed her high school building her technical career alongside acting, graduating as the president of the Thespian Honor Society. After starring as Sally in The Lightning Thief, she is pursuing her Theatre B.A. at Nova Southeastern University for Musical Theatre. Over the summer, she worked with the Miramar Cultural Center doing Matilda Jr as an assistant teaching artist. She has recently finished her show-run of RENT by Jonathan Larson and is ready to take on more opportunities.

Ajia Northern

Mary/Assistant Choreographer
Ajia Northern - Mary/Assistant Choreographer Ajia Auriel Northern is a versatile performer and choreographer with experience spanning stage, television, and film. As Assistant Choreographer and Dance Captain, Ajia Auriel brought dynamic movement and leadership to “Summer” The Musical at Aurora Theatre and In The Heights at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina. Stage credits also include a featured role in the dance ensemble of Black Nativity with True Colors Theatre Company. On screen, Ajia has appeared in the ensemble and background for major productions including Big Momma’s House 3 and MTV’s Teen Wolf. Lastly, Ajia received professional training from several prestigious institutions: Alvin Ailey Dance Intensive (Ballet, Horton, Musical Theatre), Dance Theatre of Harlem (Ballet, Graham), the Alabama Dance Festival (Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Horton), and Broadway Dance Center in NYC (Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Musical Theatre, Hip Hop, Stiletto). With a foundation in both classical and commercial dance.

SheKendra Parrish

Villager/ Ensemble
SheKendra Parrish - Villager/ Ensemble SheKendra Parrish, a Fort Lauderdale native is always excited for all opportunities to be a part of live theatre. Her performance credits include, Violet (Music Hall singer), Polaroid stories (Persephone), A chorus Line (Vickie/Ensemble), 9 to 5 (Doctor/Ensemble), Of House and Home Stage Reading (Art prevails project), Seeking (Mama Mattie), The Happening (Ensemble), and she was cast in little shop Of Horrors (Chiffon). SheKendra enjoys spending time with her family and friends, reading, and ultimately teaching theatre to the next generations. SheKendra is so grateful and excited to be a part of the black Nativity Cast.

Sarah Romeo

Villager/ Ensemble / (u/s) Narrator (Hope)
Sarah Romeo - Villager/ Ensemble / (u/s) Narrator (Hope) Sarah Romeo is an FAU graduate with a BFA in Performance. She's absolutely thrilled to be joining this cast. This will be her first Brevo Theatre Production and she cant wait to share this show with you. Her past roles include The Pink Elephant (Jamba), Rocky Horror Picture Show (Phantom), Avenue Q (Gary Coleman), Heros in My House: A Magical Musical Journey Through Black History (Jada) Whats Best for the Children (Gitmo,Acorn), Little Shop of Horrors (Crystal), The Many Wondrous Realities of Jasmine Star-Kidd (Jasmine), A Chorus Line (Connie Wong). She'd like to thank everyone who's supported her over the years!

Leilani Del Rosario

Dancer
 Leilani Del Rosario - Dancer Leilani Del Rosario is happy to dance and share this production of Black Nativity with the public. She was in Brevo's last production of Me and My Miami, and has been dancing since the age of five. With her first professional theater show at the age of seven being Anansi the Spider as well as a high school production of Seussical the Musical. This is Leilani's first time doing Black Nativity and says, “This has been a great learning experience thank you to everyone " She is going to continue doing theater and reach for the stars. Enjoy and happy holidays!

Antonia Scott

Dancer
Antonia Scott - Dancer Antonia is a dance & choreographer that started her artistic journey here in Broward county fl at the age of 3. Quickly growing a passion for this art Antonia trained in many styles from; Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Modern, Hip-hop & Tap. Antonia participated in performing arts magnet programs at Parkway middle school & Dillard High School. While in high school Antonia also competed competitively at many major competitions earning high adjurations. High school is also where Antonia gained her love for teaching and choreography and taught at local studios in the Broward county area until she graduated. Upon graduating high school Antonia moved to Los Angeles to further her dance education. While in LA, she performed in stage shows like Carnival and Club Jete as well as booking commercials for Disney + and a music video with artist Renee Rapp. She also got the opportunity to put her own work on stage at NACHMO LA. Antonia returned to Broward to cultivate a space and community in the place she first fell in love with dance. Antonia is currently acting as choreographer and rehearsal director at Brevo Theatre. Antonia’s passion for dance extends beyond words and her hope is that her work will inspire others and give audiences an escape from their everyday life.

Keith Wilson

Joseph/Dancer
Keith Wilson - Joseph/Dancer My name is Keith Wilson, and I am a resident of Miami, Florida. I hold an Associate of Arts degree from Miami Dade College, a BFA in Dance Theatre from Barry University, and recently earned an MBA in Business Administration. As a dance major, I have dedicated significant effort to mastering various dance genres such as Graham, Modern, Jazz, and Ballet. I participate in daily practice sessions with both professionals and individual trainers. I am proud to have collaborated with esteemed artists including Brianna Perry, Missy Elliott, Kelly Rowland, Nicki Minaj, Frank Amour, Trina, KC and the Sunshine Band, Ozuna, Farina, Catalina, LL Cool J, and Flo Rida. Additionally, I have showcased my talent at prestigious events such as The M Ensemble, BET Awards, MTV Awards, Latin Grammys, Telemundo, Vibra Urbana, Miami Bash, Rolling Loud, and Super Bowl LIV. My experiences working with renowned artists and performing at distinguished events have been instrumental in refining my dance skills and expanding my stage presence. Currently, I serve as the Dance Instructor at Shenandoah Middle School’s Museum Arts Magnet School. Leveraging my extensive expertise, I am dedicated to nurturing and developing the talents of the next generation of dancers.

Zaylin Yates

Founding Managing Director/Director/Props Designer
Zaylin Yates is the Founding Managing Director of Brévo Theatre, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to advancing equity in the arts by elevating the voices of young Black artists and spotlighting emerging talent across disciplines. Under his visionary leadership, Brévo has produced critically acclaimed, socially relevant programming that engages diverse audiences and fosters community dialogue through the performing arts. The organization is widely recognized for its bold storytelling, inclusive casting practices, and commitment to cultivating the next generation of theatre professionals. In addition to leading Brévo Theatre, Zaylin serves as Manager of Community Engagement at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County, where he designs and implements initiatives that connect South Florida communities to transformative cultural experiences. His work bridges arts access and education, deepening civic engagement through live performance and strategic partnerships. Read More about Zaylin A graduate of Florida A&M University, Zaylin holds an M.B.A., a B.S. in Business Administration, and a B.A. in Theatre Performance. His cross-sector expertise in nonprofit management, creative production, and community-building informs his strategic approach to arts leadership. Over the past decade, he has produced, directed, and performed in a range of theatrical works, always with a focus on authentic storytelling and cultural relevance. Zaylin’s impact extends beyond the stage. He has sat on grant review panels for the Florida Department of State’s Division of Arts & Culture, Broward Cultural Division, and the South Arts Advisory Council, helping to shape arts funding policy and support for regional organizations. He is the recipient of the Joel A. Crane Golden Spirit Award, Lead With Your Art, Community Trailblazer Award, a South Florida Legacy 40 Under 40 Honoree, and an ICABA Salute to Men Who Lead Honoree. Zaylin’s work is driven by a core belief: that the arts are a powerful tool for social change. Through strong governance, visionary programming, and community-rooted engagement, he continues to build spaces where underrepresented voices are heard, valued, and celebrated.

Terrence Pride

Producing Artistic Director/Choreographer/Costume Designer
Terrence “TM” Pride is a native of Quincy, Florida, and a graduate of Florida A&M University in theater performance and dance. He received his Master of Education in Urban Education from Florida International University in 2022. He has choreographed over 60 pieces of work, including musicals and dance recitals. A man of many talents; director, choreographer, dancer, costume designer, and teacher. Terrence can be seen on the stage or behind the camera; Rialto Theatre’s American Black Princess, HBO’s Love Craft Country are two of his most recent productions. He completed his third year as a principal dancer with Peter London Global Dance Company in 2022. His career as a professional teaching artist began in 2012, as the director of the arts program for 21st Century Fun2Learn Camp for four years in Gadsden County. He continued his work in arts administration at the Joan Kroc Atlanta Theater Camp, Florida Studio Theatre in Sarasota, FL, Apalachee Tapestry School of the Arts in Tallahassee, FL, Ailey Camp Miami at the Adrienne Arsht Center, and lastly Dillard Center for the Arts in Fort Lauderdale. Terrence curated Definitive Arts: Arts Integrated Education, lessons for the classroom teacher infuse common core with fun and energetic elements of drama and dance! As a scholar and advocate for cultural and arts education, he aspires to create safe and nurturing spaces for arts and cultural exploration and representation through theater and dance. Through his involvement with local and state grant committees, The E.A.T.N. Project, which connects communities and schools, and the South Florida Afro Pride organization which promotes health and wellness amongst the black LGBTQAI+ community, Terrence is actively engaged in community and collaboration. Recently, T.M. Pride received the Sara Spencer Child Drama Award from the Southeastern Theatre Conference for his dynamic and engaging work for young people.

Naomi Ray Barnett

Stage Manager

Giovanny Montufar

Creative Director

Elijah Wood

Musical Director

Isis Roberts

Vocal Director

Lauren Dixon

Lighting Designer

MNM Theatre

Set Designer/Builder

Harold Petion

Assistant Stage Manager

Kayla Santiago

Assistant Stage Manager

Donnell Mccant

Drummer

Charlemagne Sands

Bassist

Abasi

Djembe Player

Ann Payne Nimmons

Props/Costume Assistant

Constance Ivan

Visual Artist / Set Painter

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Board of Directors

Lakeisha Frith

Austin Gaskin

Steven Guez

Corey Mitchell

Zaylin Yates

Terrence Pride

Thank You To Our Sponsors

Cultural Arts Partnership with the Fantasy Theatre Factory

The Warten Foundation

Wayne and Lucretia Weiner

The Broward Center

Pompano Beach Cultural Affairs

Miami Dade County Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council

 

 

 

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