A Long Way From Home, ENCORE for APAP Cast

Ms. D is excited to portray Shanna in “A Long Way From Home,” the second installment of The Shining Star Productions’ “Lesson in Blood” Trilogy. She has also performed in the Shining Star Productions’ “Resurrection,” portraying Sadie. With the Crystal Image Performing Arts Production, she appeared as Mamma Miner in “The Buffalo Hero of WWI: The Wayne Miner Story,” “The Divine Assignment Murder Mystery Series” and “Oedipus the King.”

Gina is a New York–based actor who first became interested in acting during her teenage years. After finishing her college education and earning a master’s degree, she enrolled in acting classes, where she had the chance to work with the American Jazz Theater. During this time, she wrote and performed a short play titled ‘Blindsided,’ playing Alicia, a sharp, energetic woman whose relationship turns abusive—a role that pushed her to explore emotional depth and resilience on stage. Like many life paths, Gina’s journey was happily interrupted by the birth of her daughter, leading her to focus away from acting for more than twenty years. Now, over two decades later, she’s returning to the stage with fresh energy and a renewed dedication to her craft. She also utilizes her strong background in public speaking, music, and improv, bringing versatility, presence, and authenticity to her performances. Passionate about storytelling and collaboration, Gina approaches each opportunity with a commitment to excellence, creativity, and a willingness to learn and grow.

Rommell received his BA in Theatre Arts from SUNY New Paltz, where he portrayed such roles as, Brutus Jones in Eugene O’Neal’s “The Emperor Jones." He first caught the acting bug at the age of ten, performing in “The Temple of Youth” at Lehman College, and was also inspired from watching his grand¬father’s sermons every Sunday. Other theater credits include: “The Breakout,” (The Flea Theatre) “A Raisin in the Sun,” (Paul Robeson Theatre) “Somebody’s Calling My Name,” (The Raint Theatre) “The Healing Zone,” Audelco Nominated for Best Ensemble (Black Spectrum Theatre) "Death by Poker" ( Nuyorican Poets Cafe) and "The Resurrection" (American Theater of Actors) which was nominated Best New Off-Broadway play by Broadway World. Rommell would like to dedicate his performance to the Bricks Crew. @rommellsermons

Joy is a native New Yorker, actress, and mother. She first appeared in Anne L. Thompson Scretching’s debut stage production Looking for Love in Darkness as Milly, and many years later reprised her role as Aunt Lucy in A Lesson in Blood (March of this year). This current production marks her fifth collaboration with Thompson Scretching. After beginning her career in her 20s as a stage and commercial actress, Joy paused to raise her family while also guiding her son, Brandon Khalil, as a young performer. With her children now grown, she has returned fully to acting, bringing depth, authenticity, and a commanding presence to every role.

Kevin Leonard is a classic American actor. A timeless artist who could perform in any era. Casted in plays such as August Wilson’s 1930's period piece about blues Legend Ma Rainey “Ma’ Rainey’s Black Bottom” where he played the role of the defiant ‘Levee.’ A Christian minister in James Baldwin’s civil right's era Emmett Till inspired stage play “Blues for Mister Charlie.” The role of ‘Sal’ in “Den of Thieves” by Stephen Adly Guirgis. A mannequin in “Mannequin Diaries” a dramatic-comic satire of unedited stories and experiences of the fashion industry documented by eleven mannequins. A professor and a father in a classic New England family in “Love Parade.” ‘Lionel Fantom,’ an Oakland raised DJ in the performance contemporary stage piece “Four to Seven.” @leonardism101

Laquan Hailey is proud to be returning to the stage, at the American Theatre of Actors. His most recent includes: Iona university: “Master Harold & The Boys.” Off Broadway: “Dream a Little Dream.” Off-Off Broadway: “Resurrection.” Stella Adler studio: “SWEAT.” He’s an actor born and raised in New York and Graduated with conservatory training from Stella Adler studio of acting. Laquan would like to thank all of his family for believing in him and supporting him. Without your love and support none of this would be possible. @Lay_hailey

This is Phil’s thirteenth play since restarting his acting journey after more than 35 years working as a cinematographer and camera operator on major motion pictures and TV series, including serving as the original cameraman on “Law & Order”, and several Spike Lee movies, including “Malcolm X” and “Jungle Fever”. He’s thrilled to be a part of this wonderful cast. A former radio and television announcer he has continued a side career as a Voice Over actor. Phil enjoys umpiring High School baseball and competing in curling. Phil lives in Brooklyn. Phil is seeking new representation.