Once Upon a Rhyme: A Musical Tale Cast

Introducing Azariya Bates, a multi-talented dancer and theatre artist hailing from the vibrant city of Washington D.C. After graduating from KIPP DC College Preparatory, she embarked on her artistic journey at Bowie State University. With a passion for dance that ignited at the age of 9, Azariya has continued to flourish as a performer in the arts. Her impressive repertoire includes captivating performances in various shows across numerous stages within and beyond the DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia) area. Azariya's dedication to her craft shines through every step she takes and every role she embraces.

Meet Kishara Bates, an incredibly talented dancer and student at KIPP DC College Preparatory. As the co-captain of the Dance Ensemble at her school, she showcases her passion for dance and leadership skills. With a remarkable journey that began in 3rd grade, Kishara has been captivating audiences with her performances ever since.

Introducing Danielle Benson, a versatile and talented performer in the arts hailing from Uptown Washington DC. Danielle graduated from KIPP DC College Preparatory Academy in 2020, marking the beginning of her promising artistic journey. Throughout her high school career, Danielle showcased her talent and dedication to the stage by participating in multiple productions. Her passion for theatre led her to hold the esteemed position of president of troupe 8708 of the National Thespian Society, further solidifying her commitment to the performing arts. Continuing to pursue excellence in her craft, Danielle has had the incredible opportunity to work alongside Broadway professionals such as Billy Porter and Alex Newell. These experiences have enriched her training and provided invaluable insights into the industry. Beyond honing her skills as a performer, Danielle actively engages with and contributes to her creative community. She understands that collaboration and connection are essential elements of artistic growth. With an unwavering love for performing, Danielle continues to follow her passion while leaving an indelible mark on every stage she graces.

Jailah Bowman, a talented singer and dancer from Reston, Virginia, relocated to DC midway through the school year. She made her debut in the theatre world with her performance in “High School Musical.” With her sights set on a career in musical theatre, she is determined to make it a reality.

Introducing Aniya Carter, a talented dancer and singer hailing from NW Washington DC. Aniya is currently attending Cardozo EC and has set her sights on making musical theatre her career. Her passion for performing has already led her to exciting opportunities. Aniya showcased her talents in her school's production of "High School Musical," leaving a lasting impression on audiences. Now, she takes on the role of a dancer in the captivating new show, "Once Upon a Rhyme." With each step she takes and every note she sings, Aniya is dedicated to honing her skills and pursuing her dreams in the world of musical theatre.

Introducing Amari Chambers, a recent graduate from Bowie State University with a degree in Theatre Arts. Amari's love for the stage extends beyond performing, as she also thrives in working backstage to bring productions to life. Currently serving as the Open Captioner at Mosaic Theater, Amari ensures that theatre experiences are accessible to all audiences. Additionally, she showcases her organizational skills and attention to detail by taking on the role of stage manager for various projects. While performing holds a special place in her heart, it is within the realm of theatre that Amari's true passion lies. Her dedication and commitment shine through in every aspect of her work.

Introducing Khadejah, a talented artist originally from Washington DC SE. After attending AMDA NY for Studio Acting, she is thrilled to be back in DC to continue her career and pursue her passion. Khadejah's journey has led her to the exciting opportunity of being a part of Once Upon A Rhyme. Filled with joy and enthusiasm, she embraces this new chapter in her artistic endeavors. With a strong foundation in acting and a drive for growth, Khadejah is poised to make an impact on the stage and beyond.

Introducing Dantrell Dean, a talented and independent music and theatre artist hailing from NE Washington, DC. Dantrell's artistic journey has been marked by his passion for both music and theatre. After graduating from the Potomac Job Corps with a culinary arts degree, Dantrell embarked on his artistic pursuits. He has had the privilege of performing with the prestigious Hirshorn Museum, showcasing his talents to captivated audiences. In addition to his performances, Dantrell is also actively involved in building his own record label and producing studios. This entrepreneurial spirit allows him to explore new avenues of creativity while nurturing emerging talent within the industry. With a unique blend of musicality and theatricality, Dantrell continues to make waves in the arts scene as he pursues his passion for both music and theater.

Introducing Damir Hill, a versatile athlete with a passion for creative drama. Hailing from Washington, D.C., Damir has showcased his acting talents through his participation in "High School Musical" at Dozo Drama. Currently in the 11th grade, Damir eagerly anticipates his final year in high school, where he will continue to explore and develop his artistic abilities. His journey thus far has been filled with excitement and fulfillment, and there's no doubt that there are even greater things to come. With a dedication to honing his craft and a drive for success, Damir is poised to make waves in the world of creative drama. Stay tuned for what this talented individual has in store!

Introducing Jeremiah I Hughes, a versatile and talented individual who shines as an actor, artist, and dancer hailing from the vibrant NW Washington DC. His journey in the world of theatre began at KIPP DC College Preparatory, where he discovered his passion for the stage. As an alumnus of the esteemed National Conservatory Of Dramatic Arts, Jeremiah has honed his skills and expanded his artistic repertoire. With an impressive portfolio boasting over 14 productions, including notable works such as "Sherlock Holmes: Mystery Of Baskerville," "The Royal," "Almost, Maine," "Newsies," "In the Heights," and "The Tempest," Jeremiah has showcased his exceptional talent on stage. Additionally, he has also taken on roles as assistant director or stage manager in four musicals throughout his theatre career. Jeremiah's dedication to his craft is evident through his commitment to continuous growth and learning. He has had the privilege of training under renowned Broadway actors like Maxx Reed, Anthony Wayne, Craig D'Amico, as well as esteemed stage and film actors such as Ray Ficca and Ricardo F. Evens. Driven by a desire to entertain and captivate audiences far and wide with his performances, Jeremiah is poised to make a lasting impact in the world of entertainment.

Introducing Lorenzo Johnson, a talented actor and artist hailing from the vibrant Northeast Washington D.C. Lorenzo is a proud graduate of KIPP DC College Prep, where his passion for performance was nurtured. Lorenzo's journey in the world of theatre has been marked by versatility and growth. He began his theatrical career as part of the ensemble in "Bring It On: The Musical," showcasing his ability to adapt to different roles. From there, he took on the iconic character Usnavi in "In The Heights," captivating audiences with his portrayal. Continuing to expand his repertoire, Lorenzo then embraced the role of Corny Collins in "Hairspray: The Musical." Displaying his range as an actor, he delved into Shakespearean works by taking on the role of Dromeo of Syracuse in "Comedy of Errors." Additionally, Lorenzo showcased his talent as Race in "Newsies." Recognized for his exceptional skills and dedication to his craft, Lorenzo has been awarded scholarships twice for the Broadway Dreams Summer Intensive program. With each new role and experience, Lorenzo continues to grow as an artist and captivate audiences with his performances.

Introducing Tashawn Jones, a talented 14-year-old student attending Cardozo High School in Washington DC. Tashawn possesses a diverse range of artistic interests, including singing, dancing, acting, and drawing. His journey in theatre began with his first production, which was produced by his teacher Caity Schneeman. Under her direction, Tashawn participated in his school's production of "High School Musical," igniting his passion for the stage. Since then, Tashawn's talent has taken him on incredible adventures around the world. He has had the opportunity to perform at various renowned venues such as SYEP (Summer Youth Employment Program), Broadway stages, National Theatre, and Theatre 202. With each performance and experience he encounters along the way, Tashawn continues to grow as an artist and leaves a lasting impression on audiences near and far.

Introducing Chandler Jordan, also known as Chancellor Jay, a talented artist hailing from SE Washington, DC. Chandler is a graduate of NC Wesleyan College, where he earned his BA in Entertainment Arts. With a diverse range of talents, he excels as an actor, producer, and singer-songwriter under the name Chancellor Jay. Chandler's artistic journey has seen him grace prestigious stages such as the Lincoln Theatre. His exceptional performances have garnered recognition and opportunities to showcase his talents through the Broadway Dreams Foundation. In addition to his stage presence, Chandler's musical prowess has been acknowledged with a Wammie Award Finalist nomination in R&B/Soul (2021). With each endeavor he undertakes, Chandler brings passion and creativity to the forefront. His dedication to his craft shines through in every performance and production.

Demiah Latreece (Deborah) is a multi-talented singer, actor, and performer hailing from New York City. A graduate of the American Musical and Dramatic Academy, Demiah recently captivated audiences with her debut at 54 Below in Scott Siegel's Broadway: The Next Generation. Her passion for musical theater ignited at the age of 15, propelling her into a dynamic career on stage. With a fervent love for her craft, Demiah eagerly embraces the opportunity to share the spotlight with her incredibly talented and supportive castmates.

Introducing Hope Lehman Payne, a talented actress hailing from Washington DC. Currently in her senior year at Cardozo Education Campus, Hope has already made her mark on the stage with notable roles. In the production of "High School Musical," she portrayed the character of Kelsi, showcasing her versatility and ability to bring characters to life. Additionally, Hope took on the role of Andrea in "Prospect High: Brooklyn," further demonstrating her range as an actress. With each performance, Hope continues to captivate audiences and hone her craft as she prepares for an exciting future in acting.

Introducing Jo'Hari Payne, a talented individual hailing proudly from Washington, D.C. As an alumnus of Richard Wright PCS, Jo'Hari has already made significant strides in his artistic journey. His dedication and talent have led him to collaborate with esteemed professionals in the Broadway industry, including the Tony award-nominated director Kristin Hanggi. These experiences have enriched his skills and provided invaluable insights into the world of theatre. Jo'Hari's boundless enthusiasm shines through as he joins the OUAR team, eagerly anticipating the opportunity to bring this captivating story to life. His passion for storytelling and performance fuels his drive to create memorable experiences for audiences. With each new project and collaboration, Jo'Hari continues to grow as an artist while leaving a lasting impact on those who witness his talent on stage.

Introducing Tyler Spears, a humble theatre enthusiast hailing from KCP. Tyler has graciously offered his assistance with the show, bringing his passion and dedication to the table. Throughout his journey, Tyler remains grateful for the unwavering support of his family, friends, and everyone who has believed in him. Their encouragement has played a significant role in shaping his artistic endeavors. Tyler's commitment to growth led him to the illustrious Broadway Dreams program, where he received professional training and valuable feedback. Embracing both praise and constructive criticism, he continues to refine his skills as a performer. With each opportunity that comes his way, Tyler approaches it with humility and gratitude while striving for excellence in the world of theatre.

Jajuan Stringfellow, also known as 'SB,' is a rapper hailing from Northwest Washington, D.C. He is a proud graduate of Anacostia High School.

Introducing Miriam Wilkes, a dynamic dancer and theatre artist hailing from the vibrant SE Washington, DC. At just 22 years old, Miriam has already made remarkable strides in her artistic journey. She is a proud graduate of National Collegiate Prep and also spent her freshman and sophomore years at Duke Ellington School of the Arts, where she pursued her passion for theatre. Miriam's love for dance, acting, and musicals ignited at the tender age of 7. Throughout the years, she has honed her skills under the guidance of esteemed mentors such as Shene' Jones in dance, Raquis Petree in acting, Nova Tate in singing, and with invaluable support from Anthony Jones as she matured as an artist. Her talent has earned her lead roles in acclaimed productions including "The Lion King," "The Wiz," "Annie," among others. Additionally, Miriam dedicated four years to dancing with the Katherine Smith Contemporary Dance Ensemble during high school. Her commitment to excellence led to being appointed as dance captain during her junior and senior year. Miriam's passion for performance knows no bounds as she continues to push boundaries and explore new artistic horizons.

Introducing Jordyn Young, a multi-talented actress, singer, and poet based in the DMV area. With 18 years of experience under her belt, Jordyn has dedicated herself to refining her technique and honing her skills as an artist. Jordyn's artistic journey began in the church choir, where she discovered her love for music. Over time, she seamlessly blended this passion with her joy for acting and fascination with words, creating a unique fusion of all her creative pursuits. Currently a rising senior at The University of the Arts, Jordyn is on track to receive her BFA in Acting in the spring of 2022. Throughout her studies, she has embraced opportunities to grow as an artist and develop a powerful voice. Driven by a desire to inspire future generations of artists, Jordyn aims to use her platform and voice to make a lasting impact on the artistic community.