BWW Stage Mag Broken Curses - Zephyr Theater Stage Mag

Please leave your email for upcoming announcements and events

Broken Curses 

 
at Zephyr Theater
 
 
Written by
William Scales
 
Directed by
Cer Collins
 
Starring
 
Keir Thirus
Cedric Bates
Clark Lewis
Reina Shaunté
Janette Auguar
 
Mariah Tavares 
Jessica Shaday
J.R. Richardson 
 
 
 

Follow Us:

"Broken Curses" is a gripping family drama that follows Nathan and Erica Payne as they struggle to rebuild their lives after a family tragedy. Deep emotional wounds and generational trauma that threaten to pull them all apart.

This stage play will take you along their “journey of healing through faith, community, and self-reflection, as the character searches for strength in solitude and service; confronting their pain, as they slowly try to find their way back to each other, discovering that even in the face of unimaginable loss, grace, forgiveness, and love can lead to restoration.”

Cast

Keir Thirus
Nathan Payne
Reina Shaunte
Erica Payne
Mariah Tavares
Destiny Payne
Cedric Bates
Quincy Payne
Janette Auguar
Debra Payne
Jessica Shaday
Tasha
Clark Lewis
Adrian
J.R. Richardson
Robert

Creative Team

Cer Collins

Director/Executive Producer

William Scales

Writer/Executive Producer

Carole Copeland

Producer

Jessica Shday

Producer

Matthew Moss

Technical Director

Cedric Lilly

Musical Director

Meet the Cast

Keir Thirus

Nathan Payne
Keir Thirus - Nathan Payne Keir Thirus hails from Chicago, starting in theater and making his feature film debut in Universal Pictures The Express: The Ernie Davis Story. Since moving to Los Angeles, his TV credits include The Family Business (BET), Trope (BET+), The Magic Prank Show (NETFLIX), The Block Trilogies (TUBI), Second Chances (TUBI), General Hospital (ABC), True Detective (HBO), Dollhouse (FOX), To Tell The Truth (ABC), The Substitute (NICKELODEON), and Grey Streets (Amazon Prime). Keir's stage performances in Chicago garnered him various awards and nominations, including winning the Most Promising Actor Award and receiving a Best Leading Actor nomination from the Black Theater Alliance Awards, and taking part in winning the Best Ensemble Award from The African American Arts Alliance's Black Excellence Awards. In Los Angeles, he won the award for Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Dramedy from the LA Webfest, and enjoyed a successful run in the Ovation Recommended, Robey Theatre Company's production of Knock Me A Kiss, for which he received a Best Lead Male nomination from the NAACP Theatre Awards. Keir has also done voiceover work for Adidas, DC Comics THE RIDDLER: Secrets In The Dark dramatic podcast, the Mental Hope audiobook on Audible, and the Black McDonald’s Operators Association, among others.

Reina Shaunte

Erica Payne
Reina Shaunte - Erica Payne Reina Shaunte is thrilled to be playing the role of Erica. Though Reina Shaunte has many credits on stages abroad and in film, but she is not a stranger to LA stages. Reina Shaunte was nominated for an LA Theatre Alliance Award for her performance as a lead actress in the West Coast Premiere of Dessa Rose. Her role as Deena Jones was critically acclaimed in the LA production of Dreamgirls to the sold out houses and encore performances at the Saban Theater in Los Angeles , CA. Some of her other stage theatre credits include Once on This Island, Aida, Ain't Misbehavin', Little Shop of Horrors, Hairspray, and Passing Strange. She made theatre history(named as Shaunte Corrina Tabb) being apart of the original Studio Theatre's production In the Red and Brown Water by Tarrell Alvin McCraney in Washington DC. Reina Shaunte got her start in theatre, but is now in leading roles on one of Youtube's most watched series, Dhar Mann Studios. Reina Shaunte has also appeared on TV and film in guest starring on BET's House of Payne, Starz's Step Up 3, Netflix's Selena, and Amazon Prime. Reina Shaunte is managed by Lorna Tate and Cheryl Martin at CMA and represented by Sharon Morris at Actors LA. Reina Shaunte gives honor to God and her husband Doc for continuous love and support. Thank you Cer and Will for the opportunity to tell this story with this amazing cast!

Mariah Tavares

Destiny Payne
Mariah Tavares - Destiny Payne Mariah Queen Tavares, born on February 28, 2014, in Torrance, California, is an emerging Afro-Latina American actress. Mariah has built an impressive portfolio, featuring appearances in numerous films, television shows and commericals and stage plays. Her versatility as an actress has allowed her to take on a variety of roles, showcasing her ability to adapt to different characters and genres while maintaining an authentic connection with her audience. Mariah is not only recognized for her on-screen performances, but also for her professionalism and strong work ethic. She understands the importance of continuous growth and learning in the acting world. As she continues to navigate her career, Mariah Tavares remain focused on her goals. Always seeking to push the boundaries of her abilities while maintaining her authenticity. With a promising trajectory ahead, she is determined to leave a lasting impact on the entertainment industry and is poised to become one of its most notable talents in the year to come.

Cedric Bates

Quincy Payne
Cedric Bates - Quincy Payne Born in Minneapolis, MN. Cedric is an Actor with a strong presence and a gift for drama and comedy to deliver compelling performances across various genres. C. Bates "It is nice to be important but it is more important to be nice"

Janette Auguar

Debra Payne
Janette Auguar - Debra Payne Janette Auguar, a member of SAG-AFTRA, brings her passion for storytelling to both stage and screen. She hosts the uplifting talk show “A Spiritual Connection” on TUBI and is the author of “The Grace to Walk Away”, available on Amazon. As a contributing writer for Gospel International Magazine, Janette continues to spotlight voices of faith and inspiration. She has graced numerous stages nationwide and holds a B.A. in Professional Theatre from South Carolina State University, where her award-winning performances first took shape. Today, her love for the arts and ministry thrives through her work with the Drama Ministry Leadership Team at The Way World Outreach Church. For more, visit aspiritualconnection.tv or connect with her on Facebook and Instagram.

Jessica Shaday

Tasha
Jessica Shaday - Tasha Jessica Shaday is a native of Los Angeles, California. She’s a graduate of CSU, Dominguez Hills obtaining her B.A in Theater Performing Arts. Her love for The Arts elevated through Theatrical Productions and Films. She continued her studies from The Richard Lawson Studios where her love for Writing and Directing coexist with her Love for Acting. @TheJessicaShaday

Clark Lewis

Adrian
Clark Lewis - Adrian Clark is an actor from Las Vegas, NV. As much as he loves being in front, and behind of the camera, his heart is in theater. Clark has been in multiple stage plays in and out of Los Angeles. He was successful in writing, producing, and starring in his hit stage play “ONE MAN SHOW” where he portrayed a messy talk show host. He recently directed his first film “Congress & Cali” which is currently streaming on Peacock and Tubi.

J.R. Richardson

Robert
J.R. Richardson - Robert Richardson Pierre was born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, and immigrated to the United States at age eight, settling in Massachusetts. His upbringing in Haiti and the challenges he faced growing up in a new culture shaped his resilience and dedication to his craft. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Theater from Clark Atlanta University, strengthening his formal training in performance arts. Further enhancing his discipline and strength of character, he served nine years in the U.S. military, an experience he credits with honing his willpower.On the creative side, he holds credits as a writer and producer, showcasing his skills behind the camera and in content development.

Cer Collins

Director/Executive Producer
Cer Collins - Director/Executive Producer Spencer M. Collins IV is an award-winning director, producer, playwright, and actor whose work centers on amplifying underrepresented voices within the Black and LGBTQ+ communities. He founded BLACMail Productions (a nonprofit organization) to create content that tells stories often unheard outside these communities. Golden Globes+1Golden Globes+1 Collins's journey into the world of acting, directing, and producing was not merely a career choice—it is his assignment. His artistic path was profoundly influenced by a pivotal encounter with the legendary Sheryl Lee Ralph, whose fearless advocacy for HIV/AIDS awareness and unwavering support for the LGBTQ+ community inspired Collins to embrace his own authenticity in both life and art. Perception Magazine Collins's artistic vision is rooted in authenticity and empowerment. He believes in the transformative power of storytelling to foster understanding and healing within communities. His work often explores themes of identity, resilience, and the complexities of the human experience, aiming to shed light on the nuanced realities of marginalized individuals. That's why he's proud to present “Broken Curses, written by my brother, friend and fellow writer William Scales, which is another powerful example of storytelling that confronts alcoholism and the struggle to break free from generational curses. Through his multifaceted career, Spencer M. Collins IV continues to champion narratives that reflect the diversity and richness of the Black and LGBTQ+ experiences, striving to create spaces where these stories are not only seen, but heard, and valued.

William Scales

Writer/Executive Producer
William Scales - Writer/Executive Producer William Scales, born and raised in Lynwood, Ca

Carole Copeland

Producer
Carole Copeland - Producer Carole Copeland, Director, Producer and Location Manager is a retired educator from Washington, DC who is grateful to now be living her life-long dream in film and television. Her credits include numerous projects and positions in both film and television. She has varied industry experience; and is a member of SAG-Aftra, Teamsters 399 and LMGI, and is PGA eligible. In 2024, her short film, Brownies was accepted into Diversity in Cannes, and won 2 awards! And in 2025 she co-wrote & directed her 1st short film, Something About Tomorrow which also screened in Cannes 2025!!

Jessica Shday

Producer
Jessica Shday - Producer

Matthew Moss

Technical Director
Matthew Moss - Technical Director I’m a Los Angeles–based creative with a background in technical direction and venue operations for theatrical productions. I’ve served as a technical director for venues, overseeing lighting, sound, and stage operations, while also assisting in the management of rental spaces to ensure seamless performances and events. My experience includes supporting productions across Hollywood, including work with the Hollywood Fringe Festival. Driven by curiosity and passion, I’m always looking for new ways to push the boundaries of my creativity and technical craft.

Cedric Lilly

Musical Director
Cedric Lilly - Musical Director Cedric "C-Sharp" Lilly was born and raise in Compton. He is an accomplished musician who's performed with some of the music industries best. Some artist include: Xzibit, The Game, Roe, Justin Bieber, Angie Fisher, Teyana Taylor, Jill Scott, B Slade, Aloe Blacc, BJ The Chicago Kid, Bobby Brown, Chico De’Barge, Michel’le, Jacob Lusk, Vesta Williams, Danny Boy, Letoiya Williams, Roy Hargrove, Mickey Howard, Terrell Carter, Andrea Jones, Q. Dixon, Kenyon Dixon, and James Wright, just to name a few! He has been the musical force behind a number of plays and theatrical productions. His sound is remarkably unique and can stir up the deepest emotions. He has written, composed, directed and arranged original music and scores for numerous theatrical stage productions and musicals. Some of his credits include “The Whole in The Wall”, Produced by Jeffrey Page, “Nylons”, “Come Sunday”, “Men Cry Too”, “Reap What You Sow”, “Shh... Quiet As Kept”, “Under The Freeway”, Written, Produced and Directed by Brandi Burks. “Can God’s Love Reach You In The Dark”, Written, Produced and Directed by Spencer Collins, “Elephant In The Room”, “Invisible Dani”, Written, Produced and Directed by Keyana Richards and the musical stage play, “Who’s That Lady”, Written, Produced and Directed by Keenan Zeeno. He is an NAACP Theater Award Nominated Musical Director! Cedric is currently writing, arranging, and producing songs with R&B artists Jacob Lusk (American Idol) and Teyana Taylor! He has been selected to be the musical director for ICEF school districts fall and winter musical productions, for two of their Los Angeles inner city campuses. He is a graduate and a student of Musicians Institute College of Contemporary Music, earning certifications in Audio Engineering, Post Production, Music Composition and has earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Studio Recording!

Photos

Photo
Photo
Photo
Photo
Photo
Photo
Photo

Please leave your email for upcoming announcements and events

Guestbook

Sponsors

Learn More About Stage Mag