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"Tutti Frutti: The Life and Music of Little Richard" has been an incredible journey. Initially directing the story of such an iconic artist and legend like Little Richard has been an immense honor. The cast dedicated their time and effort to bring this adaptation to life, and I am extremely proud of each of them. I also want to extend my deepest gratitude to Dedrick Weathersby for trusting me with the responsibility of telling this remarkable story. This production, presented by Super Bad Theater Company, is truly one for the ages, and I believe it will be remembered for years to come.

Sincerely 

Snoop Robinson

Director's Message

Song List

 ACT I

#01 All Around The World

#02 Every Hour (Little Richard) 

#03 Ready Teddy

#04 Send Me Some Lovin 

#04A Send Me Some Lovin

#05 Tutti Frutti (Little Richard, Upsetters)

#06 Heh Little Girl (Billy Wright, Ensemble) 

#07 Stacked Deck (Billy Wright, Ensemble)

#08 Down By The Riverside (Rosetta Tharpe

#09 Up Above My Head, I Hear Music In The Air (Rosetta Tharpe & Marie)    

#10 Strange Things Happening Everyday

#11 Caldonia (Little Richard, Upsetters, Ensemble)

#12 Baby (Little Richard, Audrey) 

 ACT II

#13 Girl Can’t Help It (Little Richard, Upsetters

#14 All Night Long (Little Richard, Upsetters)

#15 Rip It Up (Little Richard, Upsetters, Ensemble)

#16 Rip It Up (Pat Boone, Ensemble)

#17 Tutti Frutti (Pat Boone) 

#18 Long Tall Sally (Little Richard)    

#19 Long Tall Sally (Pat Boone) 

#20 Miss Ann (Little Richard, Upsetters)

#21 Ooh My Soul (Little Richard)

 #22 Lucille (Little Richard)

 #23 Baby Reprise (Audrey)  

#24 The Most I Can Offer, Just My Heart (Little Richard) 

#25 Good Golly Miss Molly (Little Richard, Upsetters) 

 #26 God Is Real (Ernestine) 

#27 I’m Quitting Show Business (Little Richard

#28 Slippin and A Slidin (Little Richard, Upsetters      

Cast

Creative Team

Meet the Company

Demetrius Perry

Mr. Richard Penniman

Demetrius Perry is a native of Longview, TX, and a 2003 graduate of KD Studios Acting School. A versatile powerhouse in the arts, Demetrius has established himself as a triple threat—writing, directing, and starring in original productions such as The Way God Sees Me, The True Meaning of Christmas, and Why the Church Died. His extensive stage credits include standout roles in Fight for My Life, Mama Nem’s House, The Gospel of Oz, and I Can Do All Things. On screen, Demetrius appeared in the film The Kilgore Cowboy and has been featured in commercials for major brands including Nike, The Dallas Stars, and Herring Mitsubishi. Beyond traditional scripted work, Demetrius is a dynamic force in the world of improvisation. He is well-known for his work in Longview Wild ‘N Out and his memorable performances in Longview In Living Color, where he most notably brought the house down as "Wanda."

Dedrick Weathersby

Little Richard

Dedrick Weathersby, A Emmy Award Winner with Theatre Corner on PBS/KPBS, episode is still available on The PBS app under Season 2. A Broadway World and NAACP Winner for Best Lead Actor in a Musical. Extremely Excited to take on the role of Little Richard. Few Favorite roles: Regional/Tour: DreamGirls (Jimmy James Thunder Early); Ragtime (Coalhouse Walker Jr); RENT (Angel); IN THE HEIGHTS (Benny); Hairspray (Seaweed); The Fantasticks (El Gallo); The Music Man (Harold Hill); Much Ado About Nothing (Don Pedro); RENT (Collins); The Mountaintop (Dr. Martin Luther King Jr); Ain't Misbehavin (Andre) and Remembering James- The Life and Music of James Brown (James Brown), Most Recently seen in Scottsboro Boys, CABARET and A Soldier's Play. While not on stage, you can catch Dedrick in multiple Nationally Syndicated Commercials and voicing the role of Bernie Canter in the hit video game NBA 2K25. All Praises Goes to God for his undeniable Favor and Grace! www.dedrickweathersby.com

Codey Casey

Scott

Cody Edward Raymond Casey is thrilled to be a part of Tutti Frutti, his first professional performance! She recently received her certificate of achievement in acting from Diablo Valley College, where he played roles such as Judge Hathorne in The Crucible and Patchy the Pirate in SpongeBob the Musical. He hopes you enjoy the show!

E'tian Parker

Clint Brantley

E'tian LaRue- A Longview, TX native who has had a love of acting since grade school, as well as while attending Grambling State University. Perfecting his craft at Encore Theatre in Houston as well as other production companies allowed him to perform alongside, Carl Payne, Robin Givens, Shirley Murdock, Darrin Henson, Clifton Powell, Dedrick Weathersby and others. He is very excited to take on the Role of "Clint Brantley" and join the cast of Tutti Frutti The Musical! E'tian was last seen in Super Bad Theater's company of Remembering James- The Life and Music of James Brown as Bobby Byrd. "I have a passion for this Art form, being able to embody a character and make it believable is truly a gift, and it is a pleasure to share the stage with others who have the same talent"

Benjamin C. Roberts

Bumps Blackwell/Pastor

Benjamin C. Roberts is a recent alumnus of Georgia Southern University, where he earned a double degree in Computer Science and Theatre. His recent stage credits include serving as the Narrator and Preacher in Black Nativity, understudying the roles of Cory and Lyons in August Wilson’s Fences, portraying Sly in Detroit ’67, and appearing as Gregory in Romeo and Juliet. Through these productions, he has developed a strong foundation in classical and contemporary performance, storytelling, and ensemble work. Passionate about blending technical skill with creative expression, he continues to explore opportunities both onstage and behind the scenes.

Yvonne Cobbs

Sister Rosetta Tharpe/Ensemble

Yvonne C Cobbs is a powerful artist, vocalist, and the voice behind Ask Dr. Cobbs on KBLX, Believe Radio, and KDYA’s Steven Parker Show, where she brings health, hope, and healing to the airwaves. Known for her rich, soulful voice and compelling stage presence, Yvonne has performed throughout the Bay Area and served as music director for the Lorraine Hansberry Theatre’s Soulful Christmas for over a decade. She is also the Minister of Music for the GMWA Northern California Chapter, blending her passion for gospel, wellness, and community engagement. Through music, education, and advocacy, Yvonne continues to uplift and empower audiences across generations. Yvonne C. Cobbs is an exceptionally gifted artist whose powerful voice and commanding stage presence have led her to perform alongside music legends such as the Grateful Dead, Patti LaBelle, and Kirk Franklin. A top 20 finalist on BET’s Sunday Best, Yvonne has captivated audiences both nationally and internationally. She currently serves as the Minister of Music at Harmony Missionary Baptist Church in Oakland, CA, under the leadership of Pastor Emmett Sean Mapp and also the Minister of Music for the Northern California Chapter of the Gospel Music Workshop of America, under the leadership of Chapter Representative Dr. Steven Roberts. A versatile performer, Yvonne has brought jazz classics to life in her portrayals of Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday, and has starred in theatrical productions including Black Nativity, Mahalia: A Gospel Musical, and The Amen Corner. For over a decade, she has served as Music Director and featured artist for the Lorraine Hansberry Theatre’s beloved holiday production, Soulful Christmas: A Gospel Holiday Concert. In 2023, she released her original song, Blessed to Be Here, which was selected for the New Music showcase at the National Gospel Music Workshop of America in Greensboro, NC. The song was accompanied by sheet music and performance tracks to support choir directors across the country. With a career rooted in faith, artistry, and community, Yvonne continues to inspire audiences through every heartfelt performance.

Dominic Antonich

Art Rupe, Alan Freed, Pat Boone

Dominic is thrilled to be a part of his first production here at Lester Center for the Arts in Tutti Frutti: The Musical. Recently, he made his stage debut with Town Hall Theater in Snowbound: A Holiday Tale. He began his professional career in acting this past year and is excited to take part in this wonderful production. He holds a B.S. from UC Berkeley and is pursuing further education with the American Conservatory Theater. He thanks you and hopes you enjoy the show!

Laiona Scott

Ernestine Campbell, Ensemble

Laiona Scott is a 22-year-old actress who has been acting since the age of 15, with experience in theatre, television, and film. She recently played a lead role in Life Among the Aryans with the Black Repertory Group, marking an important step in her stage work. She has also appeared in film projects and commercials, gaining on-camera experience and working closely with creative teams. Laiona has a strong passion for the performing arts, and is driven by the energy of live performance and on-camera work. She is eager to keep growing, learning, and taking on new creative challenges

Whitney Washington-Lampkin

Audrey Robinson

Whitney Washington-Lampkin is a multifaceted talent from Dallas, TX. She is known for captivating an audience through her performance abilities of acting, singing, and dancing. Lampkin started her entertainment career early in childhood when her seventh-grade teacher, who, unbeknownst to her, was a director and noticed her charisma while reading a syllabus. He asked her to audition for his musical and she made her debut which went on a multi-city tour. Lampkin has since gone on to be in over a dozen productions including theatrical, film, and television. When she is not in front of the camera or an audience you can find her as the key makeup artist for a film, television show, or video. She also enjoys writing and plans to release a few upcoming projects. Her mission is to enlighten and educate the world about current social injustice through film, television, and music to bring an end to the damage and root causes. One of her favorite quotes is: I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me.

Michaela Sadler

Ensemble/Dance Captain

Michaela is a recent graduate of Cal Poly SLO with a degree in Theatre Arts and a minor in Dance. She has a passion for musicals, her favorites being Gunsmokin’ (Female U/S) and The Werewolves of Arroyo Grande (Female U/S) at The Great American Melodrama, and The Lightning Theif: The Percy Jackson Musical (Ares) at Cal Poly. Making her professional Bay Area debut, she is beyond excited to be a part of this incredible show and share the story of Little Richard with you all. Feel free to follow along her theatre and dancing journey on Instagram! @michaelasadler

Taryn Hannigan

Ensemble

Taryn Hannigan is a proud East Bay resident and is so happy to be part of the arts community again! After graduating from Chapman University, she began working professionally at international theme parks before returning to California. Recent credits include Neon Sparkle in Murder on the Dance Floor (Plethos Productions), Bianca in Othello (Theatre Rhinoceros), Ensemble in Jackie and the Beanstalk (East Bay Children’s Theatre), and Betty in All in the Timing (Diablo Valley College). Follow her on Instagram @tarynhannigan

Jataun Gilbert

Ensemble

Jataun “Juice” Gilbert is a dynamic actor, filmmaker, and creative force with a bold, streetwise style and a relentless work ethic. Based in Los Angeles, Juice has spent the last several years building a standout resume across film, television, and digital media—playing emotionally charged characters, directing cinematic content, and collaborating with top-tier talent. Known for bringing passion, edge, and authenticity to every role, Juice has worked on everything from independent dramas to viral commercial content, while also developing original series and branded collaborations under his Juice Box Media imprint. Whether on camera or behind it, he’s all about telling powerful stories, making smart moves, and leaving a lasting impact. With a growing presence on platforms, Juice is poised to take his career to the next tier while staying grounded in purpose and execution.

Vernon Hall

Bass Guitar/Band Lead

Chris Brochard

Lead Guitar

Mike Frost

Drums

Aaron Patterson

Piano/Keys

Kyle Dooley

Tenor Saxophone

Ryan Rodgers

Trombone

Taylor Mendez

Production Stage Manager

Taylor Mendez is a Bay Area born independent stage manager who fell in love with the art of stage management and direction at the age of 15. Since then she has been in pursuit of her passion and making a name for herself in the Bay Area theater world. Despite Stage Management being her first true love, Taylor has honed her craft over the years, holding the title of Production Stage Manager, Technical Director, Production Manager and Front of House Manager for theaters and companies throughout the Bay Area such as: Oakland Theater Project, SFJazz, Paramount Theater, Lorraine Hansberry Theater, Ashby Stage, Town Hall Theater, SFBATCO, Magic Theater, and Crowded Fire Theater just to name a few. She is honored to be working with Lesher Theater again and welcoming Tutti Frutti to the West Coast for its grand premiere.

Dedrick Weathersby

Writer/Artistic Director

Dedrick Weathersby was born on April 6, 1990 in Marshall, Texas and raised in Longview, Texas. Emmy Award Winner for Best Interview and Discussion with Theatre Corner on PBS/KPBS. A Broadway World Award Winner and NAACP Award Winner. As a child, his dream was to become a professional actor/singer and impact the world and his community through his storytelling and music. Years and dreams later, he's living that dream, paying it forward and still have more to do. Dedrick has quietly given over $100,000 worth of scholarships for graduating students of color whose life dream is to pursue business entrepreneurship and the performing arts professionally. Dedrick cherishes his individualized path of training, performances and connections in numerous, Community, Regional, Musical, Plays and Broadway Tours. Dedrick is a proud member of Actors Equity, SAG-AFTRA and Dramatist Guild Union, for Playwrights. ​ The proud Founder and Executive Director of Super Bad Theater Company and Weathersby Productions LLC/Publishing. Dedrick independently released two studio projects titled Remembering James (Tribute to James Brown) and "5 Minutes Til Places" (Songs of Broadway); available on all streaming platforms. Dedrick is an accomplished author of 6 published books, his most recent literary success would be "How I See Myself" Short Inspirational Vignettes for African American Youth. Dedrick is a firm believer, if you remember those humble beginnings, you can use each moment for future endeavors and "You can NEVER lose, betting on yourself and Giving is connected to your healing". Dedrick, has written numerous Plays and Musicals, his notable successes would be Remembering James- The Life and Music of James Brown and The New Teacher (A Stage Play Comedy). 'Remembering James'- The Life and Music of James Brown opened on February 10, 2019 to a SOLD OUT audience and continued for a 6 month run with the collaboration of Boxcar Theatre & the Creators of Speakeasy San Francisco. The show Embarked on a National Tour from 2019-2020 (Pre-Pandemic) and performed over 60 Shows. Dedrick would continue touring to states and cities based on request from fans, promoters and theater partners from March 2021 until closing on May 14. 2022. The New Teacher (A Stage Play Comedy) premiered in Dedrick's hometown of Longview, TX on February 19, 2022 with the collaboration of Longview Independent School District (Bramlette Elementary) and performed a Encore on March 12, 2022 backed by Popular Demand. This show will continue to provide artistic opportunities to youth in marginalized communities where Theatre is not apart of the schools curriculum. This play is being revamped to add 13 original songs, this would qualify as a full length children's musical. This musical has plans to be available for licensing and renting.

Snoop Robinson

Director

Snoop Robinson (Director), a native of Dallas, Texas, discovered his passion for the fine arts at an early age. Snoop has gained many accolades throughout his years in the entertainment business in film projects such as “Her Eyes” (Short Film of the Year), “Love and Drugs” (Best film of the year), and “Unexceptional love”(Movie of the Year), “Why Women Trip”, “A Sir Charles Christmas” and “My brothers Wife”. Not only does Snoop impress his audiences through his films but also through his hit stage plays such as “Why Women Trip”, “Who Are We to Judge”, “Frenemies”, and “You Can't Raise a Man” and over 20 other productions from on the stage to producing and directing the content. The time and energy he puts into his craft has given him the opportunity to receive awards such as “The Real Boss Award” as well as the “Entrepreneur of the year Award”. Snoop produced and directed, “She’s Not Our Sister,” the stage play, which sold out on opening night and launched him the opportunity to showcase his film on The Gospel Music Channel also known as GMC. “She’s Not Our Sister” was the top-rated show in GMC network history. GMC TV and Swirl Films turned this stage play into the first scripted television series which featured Kellita Smith and Jackee Harry. Snoop’s diversity as a writer, director, actor and stage designer has allowed his work to hit the shelves of Wal-Mart and other streaming sites such as Netflix and Tubi. Snoop is a national household name with films such as the critically acclaimed “Black Diamond”, “Unexceptional Love”, “Deceptions of Love”, “Stolen Virginity”, Why Women Trip” and “Older Man Younger Women”. Snoop is well respected for his directorial techniques and as the creative genius behind many successful stage plays such as, “Torn between 2 Lives”, “Body Parts”, “Dream Girls” and other successful projects. Snoop is extremely excited to collaborate with the Super bad theater group and writer Dedrick Weathersby on the new venture of the musical “Tutti Frutti - The Life and Music of Little Richard,” anticipating that audiences won't stop talking about it after experiencing this captivating production.

Tajianna Okechukwu

Assistant Director & Projections Designer

Tajianna Okechukwu is an actor and filmmaker based in the Bay Area. She earned a double degree in Acting and Film & TV Studies from Azusa Pacific University. She has worked with companies like PBS, Google, A24, Marvel Studios, and more. She was the Video Projections Designer for The Black Feminist Guide to the Human Body and has stage-managed a handful of theatre productions [EDIT ANNIE (Crowded Fire Theater), HALIE! The Mahalia Jackson Musical (Lorraine Hansberry Theatre), and CROWNS (Contra Costa Civic Theatre)]. Her film Cracks in the Foundation earned Best Direction at WILDsound and screened at UCLAxFilmFest. An excerpt of her pilot script HERITAGE was featured in Betti Ono’s The Next 15 Minutes: Full Spectrum Futures showcase, a live staged reading highlighting Bay Area sci-fi writer-directors. In her screenwriting and directorial work, Tajianna explores satirical narratives centered on the Black experience through an Afro-surrealist lens. Tajianna is passionate about avant-garde storytelling that aims to shake culture and shift paradigms in society. She is extremely honored to be supporting oversight of the Tutti Frutti production!

Rashon Sharp

Musical Director

Hailing from North Brunswick New Jersey, Rashon Sharp delivers a unique package of some of the most healing and soulful Smooth Jazz, Gospel, and Reggae music. Rashon is notorious for adding his saxophone to all genres of music such as Rock-n-Roll, Jazz, Indie, and more. He has toured all over the East Coast in festivals, solo one man band, tribute bands, gospel choirs, and more. Throughout his studies and mentorships, Rashon owes his musical career and sparked passion to Jamie Egan (Catch 22). Throughout the past 17 years, Rashon has been in recording sessions, live performances, managing, booking, and hosting events, and so much more in the music industry. He believes in sharing his musical knowledge and has been a private music instructor to all ages and levels. Rashon has held multiple musical residencies in NJ, NY, NC, VA, and TX.

Tracey Freeman-Shaw

Associate Choreographer

Is thrilled to work with Super Bad Theater Company on the West Coast Premiere of Tutti Frutti the musical! She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Theater & Dance from CSU Sacramento. Professional choreography credits include The Producers at the El Dorado Casino in Reno, NV, Beauty & the Beast in Anchorage, Alaska, Lion King Jr. for Camp Music Circus, Little Shop of Horrors at Sierra Repertory Theater, Chicago and The Rocky Horror Show at San Jose Stage, My Fair Lady starring Maxwell Caulfield in Anchorage, Alaska, her 8 person and 9 puppet reimagined Fiddler on the Roof performed in Riverside, California, and Curious Incident of the Dog at Jesuit High School. Tracey is about to celebrate her incredible first year with The Walt Disney Company as a Dance Educator for the Imagination Campus at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, CA. A very special thank you and congratulations to all crew, all cast, and any creatives that worked on this show! And love to my husband Jayson.

Henry Rosenberg

Lighting Design

Henry is a high school student and aspiring engineer who has worked on numerous school productions in many roles, including sound design, lighting design, and audio mixing. He is especially grateful for the opportunity to serve as lighting designer for his first non-school-based production, Tutti Frutti.

Everest Tomasello

Assistant Stage Manager/Prop Master

Everest is a high school director, aspiring actor, playwright and published researcher. They are eternally grateful to make their backstage debut in Tutti Frutti as Assistant Stage Manager. Previous stage management credits include Urinetown at UCLA.

Tommy Newman

Costumes & Props Intern

Tommy Newman (he/him) is 17 and a junior at Monte Vista. Typically you can see him acting in ICDT! pac productions. His most notable credits include ‘A Midsummer Nights Dream’ (Costumer), ‘Look Homeward, Angel’ (Costumer), ‘Clue!’ (Director/Set Designer/Actor), ‘Urinetown’ (Mr.McQueen), ‘9 to 5’ (Dwayne/Mr.Tinsworthy), and ‘Newsies’ (Davey). He is excited to have a chance to further explore the tech side and professional world of theater in this production of Tutti Frutti The Musical!

Whitney Lampkin

Hair & WIg Designer

EK Bonner

Managing Consultant

E.K. BONNER, a native of Longview, TX has a great passion for the Arts! He is an actor, producer, director, and playwright! He has worked with and featured in his play productions various renowned actors such as Brian White, Pooch Hall, Darrin Henson, Countess Vaughn, The Late Tommy Ford and many more. EK also has a big heart for youth! His desire is to continue to mentor and motivate youth of today and encourage them to stay on the right path!! One way he effectively does this is by being the choreographer and director of his Christian dance & mime group called Dramatic Praise for over 20 years! This group of youth have travelled across the nation performing in places such as Dallas, New York, and Atlanta, GA. Currently, he teaches Theater Arts in Texas at a public middle school and he’s also an entrepreneur that has been running his Barber & Beauty Salon business for 20 years. He has been happily married to his wife Tina Bonner for 16 years and in his spare time he enjoys spending time with his teenage triplet boys! He is honored and excited about being the managing director of Superbad Theater Company.

Ryan Rogers

Music Department (Trombone)

Ryan Rogers teaches band and music at Twain Harte School and Summerville Elementary School. Mr. Rogers has played trombone with Superbad Theatre Company in The James Brown Experience and Tutti Frutti: The Musical. Ryan is the founder and tuba player of Lucky CuZn Brassband, and was a tuba player with the 4th Infantry Division Band, Fort Carson. Ryan’s recent theatrical experiences include playing the role of Sweeney Todd (2025) and as Sam in Mamma Mia (2026) with MYACT, Sonora.

Sheryl Lucky

Costume Consultant

Christine Williams

Assistant Stage Manager/Production Intern

Photos

Multimedia

Cast Set for TUTTI FRUTTI: THE MUSICAL West Coast Premiere

The Architect of Rock 'N' Roll is coming to the West Coast. Super Bad Theater Company, LLC and Lesher Center for The Arts has revealed the official cast and creative team for the West Coast Premiere of "Tutti Frutti: The Life and Music of Little Richard."

​Leading the production is the award-winning Dedrick Weathersby, stepping into the titular role as the legendary Little Richard. This electrifying musical journey explores the trials, triumphs, and transformative sound of one of music's most influential icons.

​The West Coast Premiere Cast

​The production features a dynamic ensemble of performers bringing the pivotal figures of Little Richard's life to the stage:

Little Richard is played by Dedrick Weathersby; Clint Brantley is played by E'tian Parker; Mr. Richard Penniman is played by Demetrius Perry; Scott is played by Cody Casey; Sister Rosetta Tharpe is played by Yvonne Cobbs; Ernestine Campbell is played by Laiona Scott; Bumps Blackwell is played by Benjamin C. Roberts; Billy Wright is played by Josh Alvin; Audrey Robinson is played by Whitney Lampkin; Pat Boone, Alan Freed, and Art Rupe are played by Dominic Antonich; and the ensemble includes Taryn Hannigan, Jataun Gilbert, Michaela Sadler, and C.L. Willis.

​Bringing the iconic score to life is a powerhouse live band: Vernon Hall, Aaron Patterson, Mike Frost, Chris Brochard, Kyle Dooley, and Ryan Rodgers.

​The production is helmed by a distinguished team of artists dedicated to preserving the legacy of the "Innovator and Originator."

The Artistic Director and Writer is Dedrick Weathersby; the Assistant Director is Tajianna Okechukwu; music arrangement is by Justin Rayna; choreography is by Tracey Freeman; the Stage Manager is Taylor Mendez; the Assistant Stage Manager is Christine Williams; and the Production Interns are Everest Tomasello and Tommy Newman.

TUTTI FRUTTI: THE LIFE AND MUSIC OF OF LITTLE RICHARD Makes Dallas Premiere

Dedrick Weatherbsy, a Longview Texas native who now calls San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles home, will premiere another show covering another Music and American Legend. Weathersby had great success with his successful show, Remembering James- The life and Music of James Brown and closed the show on May 14, 2022, after 3 years of touring the theatrical and concert version of the show. "Tutti Frutti The Musical," based on the life and music of Little Richard, will premiere Saturday, December 21st at the renovated Kalita Humphreys Theater in Dallas Texas.

Weathersby said it's his duty to stay true to the music and the man. His Musical Director Rashon Sharp, echoed the same while speaking on the musical component of the show. "I grew up on all types of music and I must give it justice; this is the reason why I started playing multiple instruments".

Weathersby's mindset: How would you feel if someone was doing your story? "I act like Little Richard and some family members are in the audience," he said.

Weathersby's father was a disc jockey in Marshall, Texas. As a young boy, he was allowed to touch his father's record collection and a part of that collection was James Brown and Little Richard.

"I was so engulfed in Michael Jackson throughout my childhood and through high school," he said.

He has come to understand his father's explanation about Little Richard's role in challenging what a black man looks in all facets and true musical impact.

His favorite Little Richard tune to sing is "Rip It Up."

It's a fun and lively song that brings people together from all walks of life.

Weathersby knew at a young age he wanted to be a triple threat after this term was introduced to him by his Theater Teacher (Mattie Cuba). Living in the Texas Bible Belt, he said he was viewed more as a dancer, public speaker and actor.

"I didn't have the voice until I went to college at now closed Lon Morris, the oldest two year college, located in Jacksonville TX at that time," he said. "I found my soul and voice when I went away from Longview (Texas),".

Theater brought him to the Golden State. He landed roles in "Cinderella" "Dream Girls," "Hairspray", "Ragtime" and "Rent," to name a few.

He started out as ensemble/swing in "Tarzan" The National Tour and ended up with the role of Turk after two lead actors were not able to continue their contract. I was young within the industry and was excited to do what I loved and learn from seasoned vets.

He's premiering "Tutti Frutti"- The Life and Music of Little Richard out of responsibility to give proper homage to Little Richard's life and rock and roll musical influence. This show is unique because it covers Little Richard's life from 1949-1957 when Little Richard first abruptly left the industry at the peak of his career.

Dallas Theater Center was agreeable in accepting this show for the Holiday season, a part of their motto of diversity within the Dallas-Fort Worth Metropolitan Area.

In addition to the show itself, Weathersby and Super Bad Theater Company have added talented Dallas, East Texas, Los Angeles, and New York-based artists to the Cast. Twon Marcel Pope will take on the principal role of Mr. Richard Wayne Penniman, the older and wiser version of Little Richard. Kayla Marshall as Ernestine Campbell, Little Richard's first and only documented wife. Matthew Simmons as Scott, a young and ambitious reporter for a credible news journal company. E'tian Parker will take on the role as Clinton Brantley, Little Richard's manager/promoter. Whitney Lampkin as Audrey Robinson, Little Richard's spit fire of a girlfriend during his formidable years. Davian Jackson as Bumps Blackwell, Little Richards co-writer and composer of a lot of his hit songs. Landan Berlof as Art Rupe, Pat Boone, and Alan Freed, major historical figures in the world of Rock N Roll. Theresa Shenell Stuckey as Sister Rosetta Tharpe, one of Little Richard's mentors and major influence and considered The GodMother of Rock and Roll. Tamya J. Simmons as Ensemble and Sister Rosetta Tharpe u/s. Averi Cross as Ensemble, Dance Captain, and Audrey Robinson u/s. Jada Jay as Ensemble. Ashley Tysor as Ensemble, Jamaal Randall as Upsetter/Ensemble, and Dennis O'Neil as Ensemble/Art Rupe u/s

Weathersby said he would love to see the show on Broadway and ultimately with a residency at a popular Las Vegas Casino.

Written by Dedrick Weathersby, produced by Super Bad Theater Company's Board of Trustees, and directed by Snoop Robinson, the production features Musical Direction by Rashon Sharp, Assistant Musical Direction by Mike Herron, and Choreography by Terrance M. Johnson. Stage Manager is Jiles King, Assistant Stage Manager is Yvette Harris and Managing Director is EK Bonner. 

Performances will be held Saturday 12/21/24, 2:30 p.m./7:30 p.m. at the Kalita Humphreys Theater, 3636 Turtle Creek Blvd, Dallas, TX 94553 (Dallas Theater Center)

Cast Set For The Premiere Of TUTTI FRUTTI- THE LIFE AND MUSIC OF LITTLE RICHARD At The Dallas Theater Center

Super Bad Theater Company has announced Their Outstanding Cast for Tutti Frutti- The Life and Music of Little Richard (A New Musical) led by Award Winning Actor Dedrick Weathersby.

ABOUT THE MUSICAL

Tutti Frutti The Musical, is a full length stage production, telling the story of The Architect of Rock and Roll, Richard Wayne Penniman, better known to The World as Little Richard. From his early days (1948) being discovered by the Godmother of Rock and Roll Sister Rosetta Tharpe and being inspired by the talents of Billy Wright and Esquerita. Starting out and spanning nearly 7 years of what would become a monumental career until his abrupt stop (1957). In 1985, A young and ambitious writer for a prominent news journal company is given the daunting task of interviewing Mr. Richard Penniman for the Inaugural Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Class story, albeit reluctant of taken an assignment for a "Non Well Known artist" Scott finds himself in a whirlwind of information and digesting the true Rock and Roll History. He will discover how a divided music industry, troubled but impactful childhood, sexual fluidity, ever so changing of the sounds of music and the murder and love for his father. shaped Mr. Richard's work. A live band accompanies, bringing the passion of his music alive while offering a message of freedom, breaking racial boundaries, artistic exploration and being bold enough to be Authentically You.

Tutti Frutti- The Life and Music of Little Richard

By Dedrick Weathersby
Directed by Snoop Robinson
Musical Direction- Michael Herron
Arrangement- Justin Rayna
Choreographer: Terrance M. Johnson
Stage Manager: Morgan Becker
Assistant Stage Manager: Jiles King
Costume Designer: Passion Hampton

• Dedrick Weathersby* as Little Richard Penniman
• Twon Marcel Pope as Mr. Richard Penniman
• Matthew Simmons as Scott
• Kayla Marshall as Ernestine Campbell/Ensemble
• Whitney Lampkin as Audrey Robinson/Ensemble
• Patreece Dade-Ohakam as Sister Rosetta Tharpe/Ensemble
• Davian Jackson as Bumps Blackwell/ Billy Wright/Ensemble
• Landan Berlof as Pat Boone/Alan Freed/Ensemble
• E'tian Parker as Clint Brantley/Ensemble
• Ben Tinsley as Art Rupe/Ensemble
• Julianna Cauterucci as Ensemble/Dance Captain
• Averi Cross/Ensemble/Audrey Robinson u/s
• Treve "TJ" Davis as Ensemble
• Ashley Tysor as Ensemble
• Tamya J. Simmons as Ensemble/ Sister Rosetta Tharpe u/s 
• Jada Jay as Ensemble

*The Actor appears through the courtesy of Actors' Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States.

Tutti Frutti- The Life and Music of Little Richard Premieres Saturday December 21, 2024 at The Dallas Theater Center (Kalita Humphreys Theater)

Acknowledgements

A NOTE OF GRATITUDE

I want to first say Thank You for Supporting and Attending The West Coast Premiere of Tutti Frutti: The Musical- The Life and Music of Little Richard (A New Musical). This show is a true celebration of being oneself, inclusivity and highlighting the era in time, in which Rock N Roll burst on the scene and had the country in a frenzy. From the coined name (Rock N Roll) from Alan Freed to the Architect of Rock N Roll,  Richard Wayne Penniman (Little Richard). I wrote this Musical specifically giving Mr. Richard's his well earned flowers in a theatrical way. To just post on social platforms or speak aloud of his contributions to music was not enough. His story needed to be told through this theatrical medium and dramatized for the stage. WHY NOT ME? I live by this, each time during the two years of researching and a year of writing this piece, I would feel discouraged when the words from my heart were not coming out or the feeling of lack thereof to continue writing. I have learned in my 30 plus four years of living, when God speaks, I listen. God gave me the words in which you will experience and it's a true testament of when your intentions are pure, everything else will follow. “What are considered differences, is the beautiful fabric that binds us as humans. Love conquers all and hate can’t survive when love is the majority.” Special Thank You to my Tutti Frutti The Musical Premiere Family, Super Bad Theater Company Family/Board of Trustees, SBTC Legal Team, Timothy Kosel, Sony Music Publishing. Kelly Blackwell and Danny Penniman. To my children, I hope Daddy makes you proud and YOUR dreams are only valid when YOU believe fearlessly.  

Sincerely 

Dedrick Weathersby

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