THE CAST/PRODUCTION STAFF
Directors - Pastors - Choir - Youth Choir - Musicians - Congregation - Ushers - Nurse's Auxiliary - Special Guest Apperance
“THE DIRECTORS”
Tracey Stephenson
“Director”
Tracey Stephenson is the Minister of Music at New Life Fellowship Worship Center on Old Court Road. Theatrical credits include a starring role in the biblically-based stage play romantic comedy FOR BETTER OR WOR$E as “Theresa”, and a leading role in the biblically-based comedy stage play Widows In The Hood as “Widow Three”. She is the daughter of New Life Fellowship Worship Center Founders and Pastors, Revs. Edward and Helen Ferguson. While Tracy is making her directing debut on the gospel comedy stage play scene, with her main focus having been on singing and choir directing, her directorship of a major theatrical piece is also a natural fit. Tracey is also a Minister, Soloist and Musician. Her husband Brian is also in this production. The Baltimore native and entrepreneur is also a Praise and Worship Leader at New Life Fellowship Worship Center, a member of the New Life Drama Ministry, and has performed with numerous recording artists.
Minister Carol Williams
“Assistant Director”
Minister Carol Williams served as Assistant Director for the stage play romantic, spiritually-based comedy stage play comedy, FOR BETTER OR WOR$E, which was performed at Martin’s West in 2007, and Artscape 2007. She also served as Assistant Director for the biblically-based stage play comedy Widows In The Hood. Minister Williams also had a leading role in the production, portraying “Widow One”. She attends New Life Fellowship Worship Center on Old Court Road, where she is an Associate Minister. Minister Williams is the daughter of the church’s Founders and Pastors, Revs. Edward and Helen Ferguson and is one of Director Stephenson’s sisters. The Baltimore native and entrepreneur, is a member of the New Life Drama Ministry, sings on the church’s choir, works with the Youth Ministry, and has also performed in other plays performed by her church.
Sandra Meekins
“Stage Manager”
Bio Coming Soon
THE CAST
“THE PASTORS”
Kim B. Chase
“Rev. Right Just, Jr.”
Kim B. Chase is a broadcaster, drummer, percussionist, tap dancer and ministry teacher in the Baltimore area. Kim is no stranger to the stage in Baltimore. He has performed in tap dance numbers at the Lyric and Dundalk Community College. Acting credits include the reality show Redeemed, which was produced and directed Dr. Jean E. Donnell, and The Best View Ministry, a paraministry of River of Life Christian Center. Over the past four years, Kim has performed with The Joe Jones Ministries in their series of plays about the church: Ecclesia (Robert), Epistle (Ruben Stutter) and Examplez (Kim). Kim loves the performing arts. He has had the pleasure of studying tap dance at Experimental Movement Concepts in Baltimore. Kim is married to Karen Chase, who is also in this production. He attends the River of Life Christian Center, where Apostle Bennett Donnell and Prophetess Jean Donnell serve as Pastors.
Talven Pearsell
“Rev. Leroy Locke”
Talven Pearsell is making his theatrical debut in DisChord In The Choir. He received his undergraduate degree from Morgan State University and graduate degree from Towson University. He is a math teacher in the Baltimore County Public School System. Talven is a member of Gentlemen of Quality, Incorporated as well as Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated. His favorite hobbies include: spending time with his three favorite ladies (wife, mother, and mother-in-law), playing sports, and mentoring youth. Talven, who says that God is first in his life, is a member of New Hope Way of the Cross Church in New Jersey.
“THE CHOIR”
William R. Brown
“Dr. Raymond Jennings”
William R. Brown started exercising his theatrical talents at a young age. In addition to his love for the arts, William is also a model and poet. He has utilized his writings in both ministry and Spoken Word. William renewed his love for the theatre when he appeared in FOR BETTER OR WOR$E as “Fornicatin’ Fred”. Other credits include Christmas at Mommy’s House. He also played an important role behind the scenes in The Teachers’ Lounge. William also mentors young adults. He dedicates his performances to his twin sister Tracy Harris and theatrical mentor Robert Lee. William attends New Harvest Deliverance Church on Park Avenue where the Rev. Sidney Briley is Pastor.
Rose Mary Backus Davis-Hamm
“Sister Violetta Jenkins”
Rose Mary Backus Davis-Hamm is a familiar face on the Baltimore educational scene, but she is also a recognizable figure in the city’s theatrical circles. Her theatrical credits include The Teachers’ Lounge (Jennifer Johnson) Scrooge, Romeo and Juliet, and God’s Trombones Jump & Shout!” (Rev. Sister). Television and movie credits include Homicide: Life on the Streets, Detention, and The Corner. A character in David Simon’s book “The Corner,” was based upon the role she played at Francis M. Wood during the time she was assistant principal at the school. Rose served in the Baltimore City Public School System for 30 years, retiring in 2001 as principal of Frederick Douglass High School. She came out of retirement from 2005-2007 to develop the Institute of Business and Entrepreneurship at Walbrook High School. Rose is a member of the Morning Star Baptist Church of Christ on 1000 W. Fayette Street, where the Rev. Dr. Samuel Ray is Pastor.
Monte Lemon
“Brother John Hall”
Monte Lemon is making his triumphant return to the stage, and is quite familiar with Coppin State University’s James Weldon Johnson Auditorium. His last performances on the James Weldon Johnson stage came by way of the Eubie Blake's Summer Theater Program. These performances include West Side Story (Lt. Shrank) and Guys and Dolls (Rev. Arvide). Monte who is also an aspiring playwright, has also written and performed various plays and skits through the Drama Ministry of James Tabernacle A.H.C. where he attends. When he isn't performing or writing, Monte works at M&T Bank Stadium.
Rev. Johnnetta R. Lomax
“Sister Jeremiah Jackson”
Rev. Johnnetta R. Lomax, is an accomplished actress, singer, and storyteller. She was a member of the group “Love, Peace, and Understanding”, who performed at New York’s famed “Apollo Theatre” in New York, created a demo, and auditioned with major recording studios. Known as “Mama Johnnetta”, she has performed as an African dancer (The Dance Menagerie), and is a performance poet (New Breezes). She has also been on the bill with Dick Gregory, and has performed in dinner theaters. Other credits include radio and television commercial appearances. She has performed at the Baltimore Museum of Art, Walters Art Gallery, AFRAM, Artscape, and churches throughout the Baltimore Metropolitan area. Johnnetta says she holds the distinction of being the first African American to graduate from Villa Julie College. Professionally, she works in the field of legal and executive secretarial support. Johnnetta is a member of Patterson Asbury A.M.E. Zion Church on Division Street, where she serves as a Deacon. Johnnetta says, “God said it, I believe it shall be done! Alleluia!”
Deborah A. Williams
“Sister Essie Mae Brown”
Deborah A. Williams has a love for the performing arts – acting, dancing and singing. She has acted extensively in college productions, including a major role in “The Gospelers” which was performed at the University of Pennsylvania. She also performed the leading role in the church comedy, “After the Church Supper. In April 2008, Deborah danced as a member of the Community Dance Project in a performance that was held at the Baltimore Museum of Art. She has also performed in Spring and Winter concerts sponsored by the Experimental Movement Concepts Dance Studio, and was featured in an article about adult dancers in “Baltimore’s Child” magazine. Deborah has been a member of many choral groups including various church and college choirs, the Social Security Administration Chorus, and the Waverly Community Choir. Professionally, Deborah is a Branch Chief in the Office of Systems at the Social Security Administration. Deborah is a member of Pennsylvania Avenue A.M.E. Zion Church. Deborah would like to thank her family for their support, and she thanks God for all His many blessings.
Leonard Edward Stepney, Jr.
“Choir Member” and "Peachez"
Leonard E. Stepney, Jr. has always had a sense of humor and playfulness. Leonard is best known for his portrayal of the ever-saucy, “Pea Chez” and has been in several stage plays written by playwright Joe Jones. Leonard’s credits include Epistle, Triune, and most recently, the critically acclaimed, Examplez. Leonard is currently filming a production of a film scheduled for release in Spring ’09. Leonard discovered his ‘calling’ when he was asked to join the Male Chorus at the Greater Gethsemane Missionary Baptist Church (GGMBC), where he attends. He has worked for the Mass Transit Administration for over 19 years, and has three children Jania, Brendon and Derriq. He is a member of several choirs at GGMBC, and also has coached Little League Football, basketball and baseball. The native Baltimorean serves as President and CEO of “A Step Above All Limousines”. Leonard is an avid music lover, with Gospel and Neo Soul being his ‘sounds’ of choice.
TOP
“THE YOUTH CHOIR”
Asha Battle
“The Youth Choir”
Asha Battle is a fourth-grader at Church Lane Elementary School. The nine-year-old attends New Life Fellowship Worship Center. Asha, who is represented by the casting agency Linda Townsend Management, recently appeared in a commercial for Washington Gas. Asha has appeared in productions at Church Lane Elementary School and loves to draw, color, and watch movies.
Tyrell Nelson
“The Youth Choir”
Tyrell Nelson is making his theatrical debut in DisChord In The Choir. Tyrell who likes to play football, attends Old Court Middle School. The youngest of three children, Tyrell attends New Life Fellowship Worship Center, where he ushers, sings, and plays the drums.
“THE MUSICIANS”
Aliyu Dabo
“Drummer”
Bio coming soon
Cassie Hatten
“Sister Dartha Dots”
Cassie Hatten made her début stage performance at the Lyric Theatre in David’s Rock as “Bathsheba Servant”. Other theatrical performances include FOR BETTER OR WOR$E, and Widows in the Hood. As a child, she also performed in plays. She is a fashion model for Flair Modeling Agency and says she loves to strut fashions. Cassie currently is pursuing a degree at the College of Notre Dame in Business Management/Marketing. In her spare time, she enjoys shopping and reading. She also loves spending quality time with her two sons and friends. Cassie attends New Life Fellowship Worship Center on Old Court Road, where the Revs. Edward and Helen Ferguson serve as the Pastors. She serves as a Praise and Worship Leader, is a member of the church’s choir, and is an encourager to members of the church’s congregation. Above all, Cassie loves to pray for a closer walk with God and says, “No matter what turbulence come in life, determination will help you to survive.”
Joe Jones
“Mario”
Joe Jones is not only an anointed and gifted musician and vocalist, but God has also blessed him to be a songwriter, playwright, and stage director. Joe has written and produced five plays thus far -- Logos, Triune, Ecclesia, Epistle and Examplez. All of the characters, songs and scenarios depicted in each play parallel some of the things that actually occur in the lives of believers and non-believers. Comedic spins are added to each drama to provide entertainment, but Joe’s ultimate goal is to win souls for God’s kingdom and to help better lives. He is also in the process of building his own recently established production company, Joezmanystreamz. He also renders music in the Federal government workplace, which affords him the opportunity to share his talents whether it's through singing the "National Anthem" or songs of the gospel of Jesus Christ. He serves as Musician/Director of the Greater Gethsemane Missionary Baptist Church Male Chorus.
Steven Turner
“Dr. William Nelson Madison & Dr. T.M. Walker”
Steve Turner has been on the Gospel Music scene for many years. He has served as the organist for “The Lift Every Voice & Sing” television program on WMAR TV 2, and Praise Community Choir’s presentation of Lord! I'm Coming Home! He has traveled with the recording group “Bells of Joy” and has been on stage with “The Mighty Clouds of Joy”, “Slim & the Supreme Angels” & “Doc McKenzie & the Gospel Hi-Lites”. He is the CEO of Praise Unlimited Ministries, and Executive Producer and host of “The Artist-In-Unity Radio Outreach” program and “The Praise Radio Outreach Hour!” His musical roots stem from serving on his Mother's choir, “The Radio Chorus of the 1st Apostolic Faith Church”, which Steve says is recognized as the first Gospel Choir to minister on a weekly radio broadcast in Maryland. He has also written musical columns for Hallelujah Magazine and The Urban Star. Steve is a member of Christ Temple Christian Fellowship Church on Maryland Avenue where the Rev. Dwain White serves as Pastor.
“THE CONGREGATION”
Charles Carter
“Mr. Johnny Jacobs”
Charles Carter lives for the theatrical experience. Charles has been featured in many productions, which include the televised reality show Redeemed (Thad). Stage credits include The Epistle (Giggy), and The Triune (Charles). He was featured in a production of For Black Boys Who Have Considered Homicide When The Streets Were Too Much (Brother 34) at Morgan State University. In addition to his acting career, Charles has a mentoring program for prison inmates and strongly believes that life is a major stage performance with every individual knowing his or her personal role. An entrepreneur, Charles is a graduate student at Morgan State University. He attends River of Life Christian Center where the Apostle Bennett Donnell and Prophetess Jean Donnell serve as Pastors.
Evangelist Gwendolyn Fancher
“Mrs. Johnnie Lee Jacobs”
Evangelist Gwendolyn Fancher is an active teacher and preacher in the Baltimore area. Evangelist Fancher is a familiar face in Ursula V. Battle’s productions, with theatrical credits including a leading role as “Sister Granny Grip” in the biblically-based stage play romantic comedy, FOR BETTER OR WOR$E, which was performed at Martin’s West in 2007, and Artscape 2007. Other credits include portraying the role “Geraldine” in the biblically-based stage play comedy Widows In The Hood. Evangelist Fancher retired from the Social Security Administration after 30 years of service, and is the director of “We Are Family Daycare.” She is a member of the New Life Fellowship Worship Center, where the Revs. Edward and Helen Ferguson serve as Pastors. She serves the church in many capacities, which includes working with the Youth Ministry, the New Life Summer Camp, and planning and coordinating programs and events.
Jeannia Forrest
“Sister Geraldine Thompkins”
Jeannia Forrest loves the Performing Arts, and says has always enjoyed Theatre and Film. She has performed in many musicals, including the title role of “Dolly” in Hello Dolly. Her other musical credits include: Finnegan’s Rainbow, How to Succeed in Business, and Without Really Trying. She also has performed in college short films and many church dramatizations. The former second grade teacher is currently interested in providing voiceover sound to any area of production, including reading and recording children’s books on tape. She attends Christian Life Church on Liberty Road in Woodmoor where the Rev. Hugh Bair is Pastor.
Pamela Leak-Loney/Ms. Maybelle
“Sister Maybelle”
Pamela Leak-Loney has appeared in movies, television, radio and theatrical productions. Movie credits include The Basement Stalker and Something The Lord Made. Television credits include HBO’s The Wire, while theatrical credits include The Teachers’ Lounge. Pamela is a host on the WB television show “Keeping It Real” and is a co-host on WOLB’s “The Larry Young Morning Show”. She is also a full-figured model with Travis Winkey Modeling Studios and is the familiar face seen on the Katz Insurance commercials and soon, the Mass Transit Administration (MTA).
The Baltimore native has been the opening act for The Softones, The Marvelettes, The Persians, The Temptations, The Whispers, Shirley Caesar, Kirk Franklin, Dottie Peoples, Gerald Levert, and comedians Rickey Smiley and Semore. She has performed her signature comedic character “Ms. Maybelle” at Burke’s Comedy Factory, The Improv, Five Seasons, BET Comedy Showcase and Jokes On Us. Pamela is a member of the Maximum Life Christian Church, where she serves on the Outreach Ministry.
Brian Stephenson
“Deacon Will E. Samuels”
Brian Stephenson loves the arts. He is a familiar face with “Write On Productions” playing a starring role in the spiritually-based comedy stage play FOR BETTER OR WOR$E (Clayton). In addition to his acting ability, Brian is also an entrepreneur, specializing in installation of ceramic tile, marble and home improvement. He also is a sound technician and is always willing to lend a helping hand whenever needed. Brian is an active member of New Life Fellowship Worship Center, where he serves as a Deacon.
Leonard Edward Stepney, Jr.
“Choir Member” and "Peachez"
Leonard E. Stepney, Jr. has always had a sense of humor and playfulness. Leonard is best known for his portrayal of the ever-saucy, “Pea Chez” and has been in several stage plays written by playwright Joe Jones. Leonard’s credits include Epistle, Triune, and most recently, the critically acclaimed, Examplez. Leonard is currently filming a production of a film scheduled for release in Spring ’09. Leonard discovered his ‘calling’ when he was asked to join the Male Chorus at the Greater Gethsemane Missionary Baptist Church (GGMBC), where he attends. He has worked for the Mass Transit Administration for over 19 years, and has three children Jania, Brendon and Derriq. He is a member of several choirs at GGMBC, and also has coached Little League Football, basketball and baseball. The native Baltimorean serves as President and CEO of “A Step Above All Limousines”. Leonard is an avid music lover, with Gospel and Neo Soul being his ‘sounds’ of choice.
“THE USHERS”
Jasmine Brooks
“Usher”
Jasmine Brooks is a plus size runway model, and has partaken in this fulfilling career for nearly three years. She has modeled with Flair Studios, Travis Winkey Modeling Studios, and SH Productions for various events. Jasmine is also an actress and television show host. She is set to begin a program to receive an advanced degree in pharmacy and says she loves the Lord. She attends New Life Fellowship Worship Center under the pastorship Revs. Edward and Helen Ferguson.
Annette S. Gilkesson
“Usher”
Annette S. Gilkesson is making her stage debut in DisChord In The Choir. Professionally, she has been employed by the Baltimore City Public School System for the past 33 years as a teacher and school counselor. Her undergraduate work was done at Morgan State University and her graduate work was done at Coppin State University and Johns Hopkins University where she received her Master’s Degree. She is a charter member of the Baltimore TWINKS, a national social and civic organization. Currently, she is the President of Greater Baltimore Chapter of Gamma Sigma Sigma National Service Sorority. Annette has been a member of Huber Memorial Church for eleven years where she serves as an usher and church school teacher.
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“THE NURSE’S AUXILIARY”
Vernice Y. Kee-Jordan
“Sister Margot Braxton”
Vernice Y. Kee-Jordan is delighted to be performing alongside such a talented group of performers as she makes her stage debut in DisChord In The Choir. Vernice was excited when asked by Ursula V. Battle, to audition for the play, and graciously accepted the character of “Sister Margaret Braxton” after being cast for the character. Vernice enjoys vintage, old-fashioned stories, and uses a combination of speech, gestures, mime, puppets, music and dance to perform them for children. Vernice is the owner/operator of a licensed, accredited, and credentialed family childcare service. Vernice attends Greater Harvest Baptist Church on Saratoga Street where the Rev. Errol D. Gilliard, Sr. serves as Pastor.
Special Guest Appearances