Around the Snake Turn Cast

Sonja is thrilled to be back with Pipeline Playwrights where she last portrayed Ida B. Wells-Barnett in "It’s My Party!" Past works include "What the Constitution Means to Me" (AD/ASM), "Once on This Island" (SM), "Legally Blonde "(Producer) and "For Colored Girls" (Lady in Yellow). Sonja thanks her tremendous village!

Matthew J.Murray (Kwame) is excited to take the stage for the World premiere of “Around The Snake Turn.” He is excited to be taken on this material with a stunning cast and killer stage crew. Thanking family and friends for their continued support on his Acting journey.

Desirae Brown is an upcoming junior at Ball State University, majoring in the BFA Musical Theatre. They are so excited to make their professional theatre debut at Pipeline Playwrights this summer and want to thank their parents for believing in them thus far!

Norlian is a Cameroonian-American actor from Laurel, Maryland. He is a dedicated student of his craft. He recently received the Irene Ryan Award for “Outstanding World-Building.” He approaches each performance with discipline, curiosity, and a commitment to service.

Aliya is excited to make her Pipeline Playwrights debut! Aliya’s recent onstage credits include "Once on This Island," "Hairspray," and "Evil Dead the Musical." Aliya recently made her New York City debut at 54 Below in a “Leading Ladies” cabaret. Aliya would like to thank her friends and family for their support in her creative endeavors!

Brenda is thrilled to join Pipeline Playwrights in “Around the Snake Turn.” She recently appeared in “Once on This Island” and previously performed in “School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play.” She is committed to telling stories that change hearts and minds everywhere.

Rowan is a DC-based actor and graduate of Duke Ellington School of the Arts (vocal performance) and the University of California, Irvine (drama). She co-founded UC Irvine’s Black Door theater company, providing space for black actors to create, perform, and express artistic autonomy. Recent shows include “Women Playing Hamlet” and “Dream Girls.” She is ecstatic to be part of this production.

MarQuis has been a proud member of the DMV theatre community (both professional and community) for over 20 years. Besides acting, directing, and hosting his podcast, MarQuis enjoys helping clients craft their stories and sound confident on stage. HUGE thank you to the theatre community, who continue to support the arts at this critical time in history.

After twelve years in Nashville’s arts scene, Candace-Omnira is bringing her sparkle to the DMV. A storyteller at heart, she believes theater is a vehicle for creating conversation and building community. Recent credits include “Fat Ham” and “Our Town.” She hopes her work helps everyone feel seen, creative, and connected.

Sia Li is a passionate actress who graduated from Studio Acting Conservatory. Recent credits include “Pillow Fortress,” “Fair Play,” “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “Antigone,” and “Dance Nation.” - Zuzu. Sia Li gives all love and gratitude to her supportive community, family, and friends!

Chalse is a Nigerian-American actress, born in Prince George’s County, MD. She recently completed studying Meisner technique at Terry Knickerbocker Studio. Her recent work includes “Is God Is” and “Sundays at Chalse's,” an annual storyteller showcase. Chalse thanks God, family, friends and fellow artists for their support and inspiration.