Meet Chanel

Name: Chanel Bragg

Age:31

Vocal range: Alto, Mezzo on a good day :)

 

Stage credits: Equity Membership candidate, Two time Zoni award recipient, Irene Ryan Nomination. I've worked several professional productions for Phoenix Theatre: ( Hairspray, Rent, Memphis, New Works (Mozart) ), Arizona Broadway Theatre:  (Buddy Holly Story, Hairspray), Fort Peck Summer Theatre: (Buddy Holly Story, Shrek the Musical). Childsplay Theatre: Super Cowgirl and Mighty Miracle

 

Bucket role list: Aida, would be everything;  Felicia in Memphis, Gary Coleman in Avenue Q, Billie Holiday in Lady Day at Emerson's Bar & Grill. I  Have been blessed to play all the other roles I have dreamed of being in.  Joanne Jefferson- Rent, Mrs. Mueller- Doubt, Ruth Younger- Raisin in the Sun, Effie White- Dreamgirls (This season at Desert Foothills Theater).
 

What inspired you to be a performer?

I was first introduced to theater as a tree in A House on Mango street in the sixth grade and I have been forever hooked. Not to mention, anytime I watch Viola Davis, Angela Basset or Phylicia Rashad and I am continuously  re-inspired.

 

Why did you want to help co-create The Soul of Broadway?

There was a need in the community for more diversity in theater. Although we have Black Theatre Troupe and Teatro Bravo, there was still a need to create a diverse show in the Valley that did not exist back in 2009. Our goal was to employ a troupe of very skilled African-American Singers to perform excellent Musicals that otherwise would never be done in Arizona, and to plainly say that we do exist within our theater community, and we are looking to get hired. 

Why do you think a show like The Soul of Broadway important?

Our hopes with the show was to create a network of black actors to work alongside each other in a cohesive effort to produce a quality product unlike anything that the Valley had been exposed to. But more than that, the show provided a history lesson that spotlights overlooked gems within the African American Genre of Musical theatre and allows those unique stories to be told.

Tell me one experience with the show that you won't forget.

I love seeing the audience react to a song of poignant nature. For me, it's whenever we perform the song "Black and Blue" from Ain't Misbehavin'. The song is not meant to be a happy one. It makes a powerful statement and shows a true look into the negative side of our history and to what our culture has endured.  Hearing the audible collective sigh of the audience after singing such a heavy song reaffirms the reason why it is important to keep pieces like this one in the light.

How do you choose what should be covered in a show like this?

It is a very long process of selecting material that will grab the audience, what sounds best on which singer we want featured, and an even flow of old blending into new. It is important to show where we come from and of course the evolution to where we are going.

Tell me your favorite songs or songs that you've performed so far and why?

"Easy as Life" from Aida.  It's the one show that if I got to play her, I could hang up the character shoes and feel like I can retire now. :)

Where do you see yourself as an actress in the next five years?

I hope that no matter what I am doing, I am staying true to myself, that I reach a level of success that enables me to take care of those I love the most, and that I have advanced in some way further  than where I am currently. I have been very blessed in my career locally, but it is time to start venturing out to see what else is out there to conquer. :)

Outside of The Soul of Broadway, name one of your favorite roles you've played and why?

I played Ruth in A Raisin in the Sun and it was a real challenge for myself at the time. I know I get cast mostly in musical theater, but my first love is straight plays. I always felt I was a stronger actor than singer.

Meet Anthony

Name: Anthony Bragg Jr.

Age: 30

Vocal range: Baritone/Tenor

Stage credits: Drummer for all of my life. Singing in the church.

What inspired you to be a performer and singer?
Singing is a different type of freedom, and there is nothing like it. It’s an amazing feeling to have people listening to you. I’ve always loved to sing and play drums. When you’re on stage on performing, it’s an exhilarating experience, and I love to see who I can touch. And for me, music touches so many people on so many levels and through song you can touch someone’s life. No matter what type it is whether it's Blues, R&B, Jazz, Gospel, Rock or Broadway.

Why did you want to be a part of The Soul of Broadway?

Originally, I was not in the show because someone else was suppose to perform but they dropped out. So I was approached by my brother (Mitchell Vantrease) and sister (Chanel Bragg), so I thought it would be cool do it. But at first I was kind of like 'I'm not sure I can sing  this Broadway type of music.' Then I realized that I could do it and ever since then I've had a blast with this show. The style was nerve wrecking a little bit but I always love a challenge.  I’ve done talent shows but it’s nothing compared to this at all. And at the end of the day, I wanted to do whatever I could to help my family out because it was something that my brother and sister created from the ground up. I'm glad that I could be there from the beginning for them. They really do have something special and I'm proud of them.

Why do you think The Soul of Broadway is important?
This show gives a look into Black musicals and how far we’ve come. And there are plenty of great musicals and plays out there that show our experience. But I’ve never seen anything like what The Soul of Broadway is trying to do. What makes The Soul of Broadway great is that you have some things that everybody knows like the music from Dreamgirls then you have some of the songs aren’t even known. It’s a great education and something that we can be proud of, then you put our energy and soul into and you have a wonderful show. This is important to our culture and wonderful to know that it’s Black shows, and it’s beautiful.

You're an original member of The Soul of Broadway. Tell me experience that you won’t forget from any of the performances.
I remember when I got a dose of what live theater is all about. LOL. We were doing Run and Tell That from Hairspray and Miguel (who sang lead vocals) was no one where to be found for his entrance. So we keep "ooh-ing" and he was nowhere to be found. I was like “where did he go." LOL. I just noticed that everyone kept "ooh-ing" until he came out.  And I loved when he would riff on that song because you never knew what he was going to do.

At the time you were a newcomer to theater when you joined The Soul of Broadway. How has it been working with everyone?
Everyone was easy to work with, and when it all came down it ,we were all there for another one. The camaraderie on stage and backstage is incredible. In rehearsals and even backstage, we are very supportive of one another. We were always back stage cheering on our brothers and sisters. That is what I love about this group, there are no egos.

Have you thought about doing a play or musical?
It’s crossed my mind as far as play. But what I really want to do is be on a tour from city to city and just sing. I plan to be performing. I will have a  CD and EP one day. Performing is what I really want to do and it will happen.

 

Meet Krystal

Name: Krystal Pope

Vocal Range: Soprano

Age: 26

Stage credits: By the Way, Meet Vera Stark (Anna Mae); Ragtime (Sarah), Lorca in a Green Dress (Lorca as a Woman)

Bucket list role(s): One the street urchins (Ronettes) in Little Shop of Horrors , Anyone in Aida, Female Greek Chorus in Hercules the Musical...whenever that becomes a staged production (come on people, any day now!) 

What inspired you to be a performer?
I love being a part of anything that's entertaining to the masses. As  children, we've all had to participate in a performance or two in one way or another. I remember how nervous I was standing up on stage with all my classmates, getting ready to do a Christmas or talent show of some sort, but how seamless it all was, and afterwards I went home with my happily entertained  family and all was well. I realize now that I was very fortunate to have the encouragement of family, friends, and the education system and to be part of a society that really appreciated the arts in different forms and gave opportunities for children to flourish in so many ways. To this day, I can't stay away from entertainment, especially live theater. There's something about seeing someone's raw emotion pouring out that is compelling and thought provoking. I love having the chance to step into that role, to develop an onstage persona, that leaves audiences thinking, laughing, crying, cringing, just feeling something! 

Why did you want to be a part of The Soul of Broadway?
I've had a chance to see most of the group members perform outside of our shows and they all have inspired me so much with their dedication and talent! Before I was cast as a member, I worked with Chanel Bragg in Blues in the Night at the Black Theatre Troupe. The caliber of her performance and her track record as a local actress made me immediately value her opinion and when she told me about what she and Mitchell had created, I knew it was a project worth pursuing. My only fear was that I wouldn't make it past the audition and even to this day, I am overwhelmed by the pure talent and genuine friendliness of everyone involved! It's been wonderful to hear the stories about where it all began and to be a part of where it's going! 

Why do you think a show like the Soul of Broadway is important?
We provide an experience not often offered to theater goers. It's a wide range of new songs that opens up the audience and encourages them, perhaps, to seek out these shows that aren't necessarily available in town. As a member, I too have been exposed to shows and music that I never could have imagined I'd have the opportunity to perform, outside of the comforts of my own home of course. Additionally, I was not really exposed to many African-American themed shows in college nor to our type of cabaret style as being something that could be openly received and continue to thrive. I have learned so much in my interactions with this group and I think it's important to continue to share that knowledge with others. 

Tell me one experience that you’ve had with the show that you won’t forget. 

My first show with the group out in Fountain Hills the first time was a thrilling experience. We rehearsed with our musical director and I just remember being in awe at all of the talent in the room. I have a habit of trying to watch shows and performances that I am involved in as if I am also an audience member. My cast members will always find me peeking through curtains or, if i can manage it, up by the booth. So, being a part of this new group, I was worried I'd be found out and reprimanded to get out of the way or stay out of sight. However, that first night of the show, and every night after, I realized my fellow group members loved to watch each other perform just as much as I did! I remember being backstage watching a member onstage sing the house down and looking to my left and right to see the other members listening just as intently! Then, the high-fives, and handshakes, and hugs that ensued after each person did "their thang" not only made me truly feel accepted, but validated the pure amazing nature of the members. The support and love and encouragement given to each other here never ceases to amaze me!

 

What has been your favorite song or songs to perform? And why?

 I really don't have a favorite song yet, I find myself falling in love with each piece of music and I love getting a new challenging piece to perform! I will say, however, that my strong choir background makes me partial to multi-harmonic pieces. There's just something magical about voices coming together to form one beautiful chord that gives me chills every time!

 

Where do you see yourself as an actress in the next five years?

I'm never sure about this question. There are always so many possibilities out there. I hope I am still performing in different ways, bringing entertainment to people all over! That can be in different forms as well. I love entertainment in all aspects whether that's the music industry, television, movies, the internet. There are so many stories out there just waiting to be told and I love being a part of the telling process. I don't ever know what the future will hold but I always am hopeful that there will be more opportunities to do what we do and then some. :)

 

Outside of The Soul of Broadway, name one of your favorite roles you’ve played and why?

When I was in high school I played Lady Larken  in Once Upon a Mattress and loved it! I had been very used to being part of a choir group and only a soloist on occasion so it was a new challenge for me and I felt like the production team gave and trusted me with an opportunity and I took it and ran. It was a new experience and made me fall in love with being on stage outside of strictly choir shows. I know the question asked for one but I've got two! Additionally, one of my most challenging performances to date was the portrayal of a non-fictional woman in her fight against breast cancer in The Journey: Living Cancer Out Loud. This was a monologue-based show so there was no singing for me to fall back on. It pushed me as a performer to stretch my range and develop skills that have only helped me in the long run. I will be forever honored that I was chosen to represent her as I spoke her honest words about the journey she was on and I am always grateful for each opportunity to perform in that production. 

Meet Matravius

 

Name: Matravius Avent

Vocal Range: Baritenor(ish)

Age: 32

Stage credits:

Benny - Rent

Coalhouse - Ragtime

Sid - Pajama Game

 

Bucket list role(s):

At the moment: Haywood - The Scottsboro Boys, Benny - In The Heights and any male character in Les Miserables (except Jean Valjean, a little too high for me).

 

You are an original member of The Soul of Broadway. How do you think it's grown and changed over the years?

I think I’m the only member to perform in every Soul of Broadway show thus far. It’s been fun to work with so many other singers over the years. And it’s a nice reminder of the talent pool we have here in the valley. Everyone brings something unique. And no matter the combination of players, the result is always a great show.

What inspired you to be a performer?

I’ve always been a music nerd. I grew up studying/performing at Denver School of the Arts through junior high and high school. But I was absolutely hooked when the National tour of Ragtime came through. One of my teachers got me a ticket to this new show that I’d never heard of. It was the first time I saw a black male lead in a show that large scale. I’ve been pretty much obsessed with the stage ever since.

Why did you want to be a part of The Soul of Broadway?

It was a way to collaborate with friends I’ve made since moving to Phoenix. We could do so without waiting for a show that we could all get cast in. For an actor, the book and music can only do so much for you. I think the experience you have is a huge factor in making the show great. You’re bound to have a great experience when you’re doing a show with your friends.

 

Why do you think a show like the Soul of Broadway is important?

For me, this show is about discovery. What can we do that allows us to showcase the versatility of our performers? What great shows are out there that aren’t produced often or at all here in town? This show allows us to showcase the flexibility of our performers and hopefully introduces the audience to songs/shows they wouldn’t usually see on valley stages. I’ve discovered a ton of things that I’ve never heard since beginning this show.

 

Tell me one experience that you’ve had with the show that you won’t forget.

There’s a lot that I won’t forgot. But I love our rehearsals. They feel like jam sessions. Lots of laughter and “stank” faces because someone tried something new with their song that really resonated with everyone else. The encouraging atmosphere makes it so easy to relax and just enjoy performing.

 

What has been your favorite song or songs to perform? And why?

I’m a sucker for harmonies. So "Black and Blue" from Ain’t Misbehavin’ is definitely toward the top of the list. It’s a pretty difficult song but when those chords lock, the feeling is incredible. My favorite featured song has to be “Go Back Home” from The Scottsboro Boys by Kander/Ebb. A beautifully written song that I never get tired of singing.

 

Where do you see yourself as an actor in the next five years?

Hopefully, the same place you see me now. Having fun performing on stage. Where? Who knows. Ask me again in five years. ;)

Outside of The Soul of Broadway, name one of your favorite roles you’ve played and why?

I don’t know if I have a favorite role. I love them all! But I’ll call out Smudge in Forever Plaid because the rest of the cast was other Soul of Broadway members Miguel, Mitchell and Derek.

Meet Anne-Lise

Name: Anne-Lise Koyabe

Vocal Range: Mezzo-Soprano

Age: 23

Stage credits: Lutibelle in Purlie (Black Theatre Troupe);  Sarah (u/s) in Ragtime (Mesa Encore Theatre); Dynamite in Hairspray (Arizona Broadway Theatre and Mesa Encore Theatre); Alice in Big River (Mesa Encore Theatre); Aunt Em in The Wiz (Stagebrush Theatre)

Bucket list role(s): Aida in Aida; Sarah in Ragtime (on Broadway); Anything in Porgy and Bess

What inspired you to be a performer?

I first experienced performing when I joined my middle school’s choir (A little reluctantly. I wanted to take home economics, but the class was full. Choir was my second choice). Having just moved from France to the United States, I was shy and didn’t control the language very well at first, so talking to people was difficult for me. However, I found that performing in front of people was very easy to do and made me feel a renewed confidence. This is what first pushed me into performing, the way it made me feel.

As I grew up, however, my focus moved from an inward inspiration to an outward one. I started to notice how my performances not only made me feel but how they made the people watching me feel. Now, the audience is my inspiration to keep performing. Knowing that I made someone’s day with my performance is awesome! When I look out in the audience and see that I am making someone feel something, it’s such an amazing feeling. It’s what is going to keep me going back to the stage.

Why did you want to be a part of The Soul of Broadway?

First of all I had already worked with most of the original members of the cast on other shows so I knew that being a part of The Soul of Broadway would be a great time with really talented people.

On the strictly performing side of things, having the show set up the way it is makes it an awesome experience. I have been able to sing songs from shows that I otherwise might not have had the chance to perform. The Soul of Broadway also provides a great diversity in both the styles of music and the types of roles presented so that during each show the cast has to transition from one character to a completely different one over and over again. I know that personally this has been a great challenge for me. It has pushed me to truly expand my range and my flexibility both vocally and as an actress.

Why do you think like show like the Soul of Broadway is important?

I feel like often, African American singer/actors are only expected to play a specific type of character and sing specific styles of music. I think the Soul of Broadway is a great way to showcase the versatility of African American performers. It also allows both the audience and the cast members to discover songs and shows that they might have not been exposed to otherwise.

Tell me one experience that you’ve had with the show that you won’t forget.

I have experienced so many great moments with the show that it’d be hard to pick just one. What I will definitely always remember from being a part of the Soul of Broadway, however, is the feeling I get performing with these amazing people. Whether we are singing an upbeat songlike “Brand New Day” or an emotionally heavy one like “Black and Blue”, the magic that we can create as a group just blows me away every time.

What has been your favorite song or songs to perform? And why?

That is a really difficult question as I don’t think there is a song I DIDN’T like to perform. I do love singing anything from Porgy and Bess or Ragtime as they truly showcase my classical training. Black and Blue is one of the group numbers that I love because, although it is very challenging vocally, it is such a beautiful piece that you can’t NOT be affected by it. I Know Where I’ve Been is another favorite group number. I have been in three different productions of Hairspray and have performed it a number of times in a cabaret setting including with The Soul of Broadway, and it makes me tear up every time.

Where do you see yourself as an actress in the next five years?

On Broadway? :) Well at least that is my dream. Although I will have reached my goal when I can say that I completely live off of performing.

Outside of The Soul of Broadway, name one of your favorite roles you’ve played and why?

 

Sarah in Ragtime remains one of my favorite roles to date. I just love the show itself. The story is such a powerful one and the music is gorgeous. The role of Sarah is an exciting one to play because there are very few lines and the character only appears briefly during the show but needs to have enough intensity to propel the story forward. As an actress it’s an interesting role to have to play because so much has to be said without words. As a singer, I could sing “Your Daddy’s Son” all day. The duets are also just so gorgeous both in music and emotion. I absolutely love this show and would never get tired of being in it.

Meet Miguel

Name: Miguel Jackson

 

Vocal Range: Tenor

 

Age: 35

 

Stage Credits: Gator in Memphis, Phoenix Theatre; Coalhouse Walker Jr. in Ragtime, Theater Works; Jinx in Forever Plaid, Mesa Encore Theatre; Billy, It's Only Life, ASU West; C.C. White, Dreamgirls, Hamilton Theater

 

Bucket List: Jamie in The Last 5 Years

What inspired you to be a performer?

I grew up in the church, and every Saturday was a full day experience. Singing was big in our family as my mother taught piano and played for our church. My father played the trumpet and we would sing as a trio often. Music was a huge part of the Jackson household. After doing years of Christmas programs in church, I figured I'd do the same in school, joining the drama club and also a big part of the music program (tuba, bass guitar). I've been on stage, even before I really knew why I was out there and what I was doing! (Laughing) Music is something that touches me in a profound way, and I love to be able to sing and look out and see if I'm making an impact. I believe music is one of the most true forms of expression, and I love to share what I have!

Why did you want to be apart of The Soul of Broadway?

After working with Mitchell, Matravius and Chanel in Ragtime, when I was approached to be a part of the initial version of this show, I was pleasantly overwhelmed! I was so impressed with the idea to showcase specific songs from specific shows in this setting, and I really jumped into it with both feet. Plus, have you heard these people sing yet? What musician worth their salt wouldn't want to be a part of this cadre of incredible talent????

Why do you think The Soul of Broadway is important?

If we don't know where we come from, we are destined to end up there again. A slight paraphrasing of a saying that I think is so true. By showcasing some of these prolific songs and shows, we give each audience member a true sense of the range of the African American performer. You get a chance to see how shows and roles have helped to shape a common experience and common bond. Hopefully after this show, you are able to look at part of our experience and appreciate it a little better. 

Tell me the one experience you've had with the show that you won't forget.

I remember the first time we put this show up, and just how nervous we were! We had no idea how it would be received and whether people would appreciate this fresh perspective. We were truly blown away by the positive response and knew we had something legitimate!! I've laughed countless times with these folk, sweat and bled, and they're just some of the finest performers I've had the pleasure of working with!

What is your favorite song you've performed in one of the productions?

Home from The Wiz is one of my personal favorites. It's originally sung by a woman (Dorothy) in The Wiz and so to be able to perform it was a real treat for me. Plus, being an import myself (Canadian, eh!), there was a small bit of homesickness to it. But even as this show has morphed, so have I. My home now is Arizona and I consider myself fortunate. So, all those things mixed in with the lyrics to give that song a personality for me personally. A close second is the song Black and Blue. Its stripped down and simple harmonies are haunting and soul stirring and leave you drained, but in that good kind of way.

Where do you see yourself as actor in the next five years?

Nothing concrete. I'd never be an actor if I need that level of forethought. However, I definitely can't leave the stage. I may move more into just singing than stage work, but again, I prefer to leave myself open to what presents itself to me. I'll never stop singing and hopefully my professional plans can somehow line up with that. I must say, however, that I'm incredibly fortunate to already work in TV. I'm currently a director for AZ Midday, our local show on Channel 12 from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Friday. I can't thank Channel 12 enough for being so flexible and helpful in letting me get away to do these types of shows from time to time.

What is one of your favorite roles?

I'd have to say Coalhouse. I've been fortunate to play him twice now and both times were the most profound experiences I had to that date. Both casts were tremendous in totally different ways, and Ragtime is just a powerhouse of a show. But every role not only helps me as an actor, but helps to shape my personal experiences also. I also love to do new works, things that people don't know going in to a show already. Being able to surprise an audience with an emotional ballad or a funny patter song.....there is truly nothing better.

Meet Tyra

Name: Tyra Young     

Vocal Range:  Mezzo Soprano 

Age: 26

Stage credits:
Lottie/Carmen – By the Way Meet Vera Stark
Zora Neal Hurston – Har Lem Ren
Dynamite Shayna - Hairspray
Bucket list role(s): Aida, Aida; Effie White, Dreamgirls

What inspired you to be a performer?
I come from a family of “sangin’ folk” my maternal grandmother traveled locally and sang with different gospel groups as a young woman. Later my mother, grandmother, great aunt, and later my aunt sang in a locally well-known gospel group.

As a child I can remember my mother(who was the lead choir director at our church) calling my sister, brother and I together and having us sing songs in three-part harmony, before she brought them to the choir to teach so she could see how it would sound.

My father relished in the stories of his grandmother being a professional dancer in New York City as a young woman. My mother herself danced throughout high school so my parents enrolled my sister and me in dance lessons when we were 5 and 3 years old.

I have always been very much the introvert. As long as I can remember I never had a problem with being alone or to myself. However I’ve been making melody with my instrument since before I was 1 years old. I started singing in my church Sunshine Band around 3 or 4 years old with that came the Easter and Christmas speeches we had to recite before the congregation every year and later the praise dances.

I’ve pin pointed that even though I have always been an introvert, having these constant platforms of expression reciprocated with encouragement and appreciation of my performance has made me confident in my quietness and everything else that I am as an individual.   Ultimately what I’ve come to realize, singing is healing for me and I’ve never felt more comfortable than when I’m animating the words of someone's truth right off the page.

Why did you want to be a part of The Soul of Broadway?

I wanted to be a part of Soul of Broadway because I knew that Chanel and Mitchell had a level of regard for theatre and standards that would not allow them to just throw anything together. I hadn’t seen this concept delivered with a high caliber. So when I was invited to audition of course I jumped at the chance! I am so grateful for this experience it has allowed me to learn so much about myself as a performer.

Why do you think like show like the Soul of Broadway is important?

This platform is so important because it gives more diversity in the Arizona theatre community. The Soul of Broadway is not a club, meaning it doesn’t exclude or discriminate against people because they aren’t well known or lack certain credentials. The only qualification is talent and willingness to grow as a performer. The Soul of Broadway's tendency to not be so apprehensive or threatened by new talent but to nurture growth is a winning formula.

Tell me one experience that you’ve had with the show that you won’t forget.

There hasn’t been one moment in particular that stands out for me at the moment. However I won’t forget the love and the chances that have been given to me. I won’t forget the feeling of family that I had during every rehearsal, blocking, and sound check with the talented, giving, hilarious people Soul of Broadway. I can't wait to do it again! 

What has been your favorite song or songs to perform? And why?

My favorite song to sing thus far has been “I Am Changing” from Dreamgirls because it was such a challenge, Effie is a dream role of mine, and the lyrics are a message of positive self-talk that spoke volumes to my life at that time.

Where do you see yourself as an actress in the next five years?

I very much protect the details of my ambitions, however I will say I see myself using my gifts to bring joy and healing to the people God places in my circle.

Outside of The Soul of Broadway, name one of your favorite roles you’ve played and why?

At the moment my favorite role is Lottie/Carmen the women that I’m playing now in “By the Way Meet Vera Stark” with iTheatre Collaborative. First of all it’s a straight play, which is always a breath of fresh air for me.  Also it’s always great when you can play a juxtaposition of women in one show. I love the challenge it has brought mostly because neither of the women at a glance are anything like me. iTheatre’s staff, the director, and the cast has made it a wonderful experience.