ANANIA is an actor, singer, creator, and drag artist based in Brooklyn, NY. Credits include Lucky Stiff(Domonique— NYC), Kinky Boots (Lola— Chicago, IL), Into the Woods (Narrator- Boston, MA), opening for Bob the Drag Queen (LA, 2024), opening for Chappell Roan (Chicago, 2023). They’d like to thank their chosen family for being an amazing support system. @anania00

PRIMO THEE BALLERINO was born in Cincinnati, OH. At a late start at the age of 14, Primo started training at the School for Creative and Performing Arts in Cincinnati, Ohio. He has performed in many ballets such as Giselle, Dracula, Sleeping Beauty, The Nutcracker and more. Primo attended The Young Americans College of Performing Arts in Corona, CA and has traveled and toured to over 17 countries teaching dance, vocal music and confidence building through the arts. He has worked with some of the industry’s best choreographers, directors and producers. He was featured twice in the New York Times and had a 2-page spread in Dance Magazine. He most recently was a breakout star in the new Off-Broadway musical CATS: The Jellicle Ball at the Perelman Arts Center. Featured and recognized globally, he now works as a freelance instructor, dancer and voguer in New York City and across the country. Known as Thee Ballerino, Thee Human Tornado and Mr. $5k, Primo has now become a major statement in the Ballroom scene and many other artistic spaces.

BRYSON BATTLE is thrilled to be making his professional debut with New York Theatre Workshop in Saturday Church. A recent graduate of The Boston Conservatory at Berklee, Bryson is a dynamic performer who strives to break molds while pursuing his dream of becoming the next great entertainer. He can currently be seen on this season of NBC’s “The Voice” after receiving a 4-chair turn. When not on stage, Bryson enjoys making music, exploring all aspects of fashion and design, and collaborating with other artists. He is incredibly grateful to join the NYTW family and is excited to bring this production to life. Bryson would like to thank his supportive family, his friends, and his incredible team at Daniel Hoff Agency. @thebrysonbattle

VEYONCE DELEON is a rising performer in New York City, best known for her presence as a celebrated Women’s Performer in the ballroom scene. Born and raised in the Bronx, she discovered ballroom at 17 through The Door, a youth-focused community center that sparked her journey of self-discovery. Her credits include Being the Digital Griot by Rashaad Newsome (a Sundance-partnered exhibition later featured in the documentary Assembly), campaigns for Marc Jacobs, Vogue, Opening Ceremony, and Adidas, as well as editorials for i-D, Dazed, and Elle Singapore. She has trained at Atlantic Acting School and New York Theatre Workshop and continues to grow as both a vocalist and actor, with roots in choir at Frank Sinatra School of the Arts. She also studied visual merchandising at The High School of Fashion Industries. Veyonce makes her Off-Broadway debut in Saturday Church, a work that reflects her own story, finding chosen family and self-expression through movement. For her, it’s more than a role it’s a tribute to young Black and Brown queer people learning to live in their truth.

MICHAEL SAMARIE GEORGE is a proud queer nonbinary artist, actor, dancer, singer, and writer. Broadway: The Wiz. National Tours/Regional: Hamilton (Chicago Company) Mean Girls, The Devil Wears Prada (Chicago Company), 3 Summers of Lincoln (La Jolla Playhouse). Michael is thrilled to join the cast of Saturday Church, a production that holds special meaning for them. This heartfelt story resonates deeply, and they are excited to share its message of self-discovery and acceptance with audiences. Michael believes in the power of art to inspire and uplift, and they are dedicated to promoting visibility in the performing arts. Michael is grateful to their incredible representatives and family for their unwavering support along the way. With their unique voice and passion, Michael Samarie George is ready to shine on stage in Saturday Church and celebrate the magic of performance!

J. HARRISON GHEE (they/them) is a Tony Award-winning actor who made history as the first non-binary performer to win Best Leading Actor in a Musical for Some Like It Hot. They recently starred in the world premiere of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. Other stage credits include Kinky Boots, Mrs. Doubtfire, Chicago, and The Stingopposite Harry Connick, Jr. On screen, they’ve appeared in Netflix’s “Raising Dion” and FOX’s “Accused.” Ghee is passionate about using their artistry to inspire others to dream big and live boldly.

J’QUAY GIBBS (they/them) is blessed and highly flavored to be making their off-Broadway debut, especially at NYTW (Rentheads, unite!). They most recently played the role of King Herod in Jesus Christ Superstar (The REV) and was previously at sea as the host/vocalist of Le Cabaret Rouge on the MSC Seascape. Regional Credits: Angel Dumott Schunard in Rent, Justice Charlier in Rock of Ages, Ja’Keith Gill in Rock of Ages 2x, Leading Player in Pippin, Mike Nulty in White Christmas, Apollo Singer in The Buddy Holly Story. Education: BA in Musical Theatre at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. A Pittsburgh native hoping to be an example of the work of inclusion and representation in theatre. Unending love to my given family, my chosen family and Adunni Rose Talent. He’s an on-time God! Insta/TikTok: @jquaygibbs, jquaygibbs.com

FERNELL HOGAN (he/him) is excited to be making his New York Theatre Workshop debut! He was recently seen playing Martin in the Tony Award-winning Best Musical Kimberly Akimbo on Broadway where he originated the role. Other credits include The Prom (Broadway); Mean Girls (National Tour); Kimberly Akimbo(Off-Broadway); Mean Girls the Movie, “Law & Order: SVU.” Fernell is endlessly thankful for the support of his family and friends throughout his journey. Big thanks to Creative Talent Company and Nicolosi! @fernellhogan

DAVA HUESCA is an Obie Award–winning performer and choreographer recently named one of Dance Magazine’s “25 to Watch” in 2025. A native New Yorker and graduate of Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School and SUNY Purchase Conservatory of Dance, Dava works across concert dance, musical theater, and immersive performance. She is best known for her work in the hit Off-Broadway revival CATS: The Jellicle Ball, where she portrayed Rumpleteazer and served as Assistant Dance Captain. She has also performed with acclaimed companies such as the McKittrick Hotel, Yin Yue Dance Company, VIM VIGOR, and more. As a choreographer, Dava’s work is rooted in emotional storytelling, gesture, and fluid physicality. She has been commissioned by Whim W’Him Dance Company, Dance Lab New York, and Yale University’s Summer Drama Cabaret. She was the associate choreographer for the developmental choreography lab of Bob Marley’s Hope Road and also served as an associate to Laja Field for projects at Gibney PRO and the University of Minnesota. In 2021, Dava was honored as the inaugural Springboard Danse Montréal–nominated recipient of the Jonah Bokaer Arts Foundation AIR Founder’s Residency. She was also among the first cohort of choreographic artists selected for Gallim’s Moving Women Residency in 2020. Whether performing or creating, Dava brings a visceral intensity and curiosity to her work, drawing from her theatrical instincts and technical background. She continues to expand her practice across stage and screen, and blend her signature grounded contemporary and vogue femme movement vocabulary.

Oyoyo Joi is one of eight kids to HERO parents. NYC grown and so happy to be here. Broadway: Once Upon a Mattress, Moulin Rouge, MJ the Musical, The Book of Mormon. National Tours: The Book of Mormon, Memphis. Concert: Jesus Christ Superstar at the Hollywood Bowl.

JOAQUINA KALUKANGO received the 2022 Tony and Drama Desk Awards for Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical for her extraordinary performance as Nelly O’Brien in Paradise Square. She also received a 2020 Tony Award nomination for her performance in the critically acclaimed Broadway production of Slave Play. For that production she also received an Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Actress, and Broadway.com listed her as one of the top five performers (male or female) of the year. Most recently Kalukango executive produced and starred as the Queen of Disco, Gloria Gaynor, in the Lifetime movie “I Will Survive: The Gloria Gaynor Story,” reuniting her with producer Robin Roberts. Additionally, she recurred in both Taylor Sheridan’s limited series “Lawman: Bass Reeves” starring David Oyelowo and on the HBO series “Lovecraft Country.” Joaquina is a 2021 SAG Award nominee for Cast in a Motion Picture for her role as Betty X opposite Kingsley Ben-Adir in Regina King’s directorial debut, One Night in Miami. Other TV credits include Ava DuVernay’s series, “When They See Us,” and “Robin Roberts Presents: Mahalia,” directed by Kenny Leon. Additional Broadway credits include Into the Woods, The Color Purple, Holler If Ya Hear Me and Godspell.

KRISTOLYN LLOYD (she/her). Grammy and Emmy Award-winning actress. Acting credits include 1776, Dear Evan Hansen (Broadway). Off-Broadway: Liberation (Roundabout Theatre); Blue Ridge (Atlantic); Paradise Blue, Confederates (The Signature Theatre); Hamlet (The Public Theater); Invisible Thread (Second Stage Theatre), Heathers: The Musical (New World Stages); Cabin In The Sky (Encores/City Center); Little Women(Primary Stages). Selected Regional: Paradise Blue (Williamstown); Witness Uganda (A.R.T.); Hairspray, Rent(Hollywood Bowl). TV includes “Random Acts of Flyness” (HBO); “Elementary,” “Madam Secretary,” “Kevin Can Wait” (CBS); “ER,” “Chicago Med” (NBC); “Lie to Me” (FOX). @kristolynlloyd

KAREEM MARSH is a dynamic and versatile performing artist who has brought his talent to audiences in over 13 countries. His credits include the film adaptation of In the Heights, The Wiz on Broadway and its First National Tour (Dance Captain / Ensemble), Goddess at The Public Theater (Swing), Philadanco, and Holland America Cruise Lines. Kareem has been featured in Dance Magazine for his international work, first in 2017 and again in 2024. Follow him @kareemdances.

JACKSON KANAWHA PERRY is beyond grateful for this opportunity. Education: University of Michigan BFA in Musical Theatre/Minor in Afro American and African studies, UNCSA High School Drama. Select Credits: The Karate Kid the Musical (premiere) and shows at The Apollo Stages, Ogunquit Playhouse, Cape Playhouse. Glory to God, and special thanks to his agents, casting, mentors, friends, and family. @jk.perry

CALEB QUEZON (any/all) is from Tampa, FL. She graduated from the University of Michigan with a BFA in Musical Theatre in 2023 and was featured in their productions of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, HAIR,Sophisticated Ladies, and The Importance of Being Earnest. After graduation, Quezon has been seen in regional shows such as RENT at Theatre Aspen and Kinky Boots! at Riverside Theatre. They will be making their Off-Broadway debut with Saturday Church. She is represented by DGRW and Hyphenate Creative Management.

B NOEL THOMAS is a versatile performing artist and educator originally from Oakland, currently based in New York. A graduate of Oakland School for the Arts, she began her journey as a standout member and award-winning choreographer of the nationally recognized a cappella group Vocal Rush. Her distinct baritone-to-soprano vocal range allows her to take on a wide variety of roles across gender and musical style. She is passionate about storytelling, representation, and believes deeply in her personal motto: “Aspire to Inspire.” Her career spans stage and screen, blending powerful vocals, movement, and heart. She was featured on ABC’s “American Idol” and appeared in Theatre Forward’s 2021 Virtual Gala, performing alongside Jason Robert Brown, Kate Baldwin, George Salazar, Anika Noni Rose, and more. Her theatrical credits include The Toxic Avenger, for which she received the Bay Area Theatre Critics Circle Award and a Theatre Bay Area Award nomination, and Sister Act as Deloris, which also earned her a Theatre Bay Area Award nomination. Whether on stage, in the classroom, or through community-driven projects, B Noel Thomas continues to challenge expectations and create space for new voices. With a fearless spirit and a deep love for the craft, she brings joy, depth, and authenticity to everything she does.

DAMANI VAN RENSALIER is a passionate performing artist reigning from Paterson, NJ. She holds her BFA in Dance from Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University where she studied modern/contemporary dance styles. In 2019, Damani made her Broadway debut in the Broadway musical Hadestown giving her the opportunity to perform at the 93rd Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on NBC and record If The Fates Allow (A Hadestown Holiday Album) with the original company. After spending the pandemic kickstarting a nonprofit and hosting local art events, Damani began touring with the Angelica Company of Hamilton throughout the US as a featured ensemble member. She closed with the Angelica tour in 2023 and joined the Broadway company for six months, departing in January of 2024. Damani was then part of the world premiere of The Preacher’s Wife at the Alliance Theatre where she also served as dance captain and is currently in Boop! The Musical as a swing and original Broadway cast member. Damani is most proud of her uniqueness as a Black queer artist and looks forward to continuing growing and expanding her craft.

WADE WATSON is a freelance artist and NYC native. He’s toured nationally and internationally throughout his career. As an artist based in NYC, Wade has been exposed to all styles of dance. Wade spent majority of his career working in concert dance, which eventually led to music videos, movies, and theater! He’s worked with Classical Theater of Harlem in their productions of Macbeth and The 3 Musketeers. He was also featured in the hit show “POSE” on FX, as well as the hit show “Dickinson” on Apple TV+. Recently, Wade stepped into his role as Musa, in the new and original musical Goddess, directed by Saheem Ali, choreographed by Darrell Moultrie, and performed at The Public Theater. Also, Wade traveled to Accra, Ghana as well as Cape Coast as a company member with Jamel Gaines Creative Outlet. While there he participated in Outreach with the movers of Ghana and performed alongside the National Dance Theater of Ghana! Wade recently traveled to Cali, Colombia to perform in the “FINBA” festival as well as participated in outreach. Currently, Wade is signed with CESD agency gearing up for the opportunities that will arise in the near future.