The Juneteenth Story

A’Myra Menard

Featured Dancer (Belle)

A’Myra Menard is a dancer, choreographer, and creative from Lafayette currently pursuing her BFA in Dance at University of Louisiana at Lafayette. She began her dance journey at the age of 15 at F.I.R.E Expressions under the direction of Leigha Porter, training in ballet, Horton, contemporary, tap, African, and jazz. A’Myra has performed in works such as Root, Preservation, State of LA Danse, and Evening of Dance, while also serving as a teacher, choreographer, and mentor for young dancers. Her artistic work often explores storytelling, cycles, identity, and human connection through movement. In recognition of her dedication and artistry, she was awarded the prestigious Marc Breaux Scholarship Award in Performing Arts from the UL Lafayette Dance Department. Passionate about both performance and community, A’Myra continues to grow as an artist while inspiring the next generation of dancers through education, creativity, and leadership.

Ahyris Navarre

Featured Singer (Belle)

Ahyris is a long time resident of Lafayette. She graduated from Lafayette High, and participated in the marching band. After graduating, she started working on her music career. Her exposure to many different genres helped her broaden her vocal range and type of singing. Songwriting had always been a passion for her and in 2019 she started writing songs for artists in the city. In 2020 she dropped her debut album "About Time". She has been perfecting her producer skills as well, helping to write, and produce several artists. Since then, Ahyris has been in several productions at Cite De Arts such as "Still Misbehavin", "The Marvelous Wonderettes", and "Disco Loves Rock". She's also featured in several bands including Co-lead singer in The Louisiana Reds and background vocalist for The David Sylvester Experience. Her focus and determination is sure to make her a powerful force to reckon with!!

Aubrie Clay

Peaches / Imani

Aubrie Clay is a triple threat performer; acting, singing and dancing. She may be shy but her personality shines on stage. Aubrie has performed in a variety of shows, such as, Peter Pan (Bear), Anastasia (Matchbox Girl), Matilda (Featured Little Kid), Frozen Jr (Hidden Folk/Oaken Family), Rhythm of Our Roots, and now The Juneteenth Story as Imani/Peaches. She recently performed and won 3rd place at BETA state convention, which she will compete again for Nationals June 21 in Nashville, TN. When Aubrie is not hitting the stage, she is FaceTiming friends, playing with her little siblings, crafting or shopping.

Donald Wright

Rev. Marshall / Ashmay

Born and raised in New Iberia, LA from the loving parents of Bertha Wright and the late Rev. Donald L. Wright, Sr., Donald began singing at the age of 4 with his family the Wright Gospel Group. He also began taking piano lessons at age 11 and began playing for 2 churches by age 13. He is a professional musician, composer, writer, and pianist. After graduating high school, he went on to attend Southeastern Louisiana University and obtained a bachelor's of arts music degree with an emphasis in vocal performance in 1998. Later on, he earned a Master of Biblical Studies from Tyndale Theological Seminary. Pastor Wright has traveled extensively across the United States, Canada, and South Africa. Being gifted with such an anointed and unique voice has made room for him to sing and tour with gospel icon "Kirk Franklin," beginning with the 2002 "Rebirth" album. He has also had the privilege of sharing the stage with the likes of John P. Kee, Yolanda Adams, Richard Smallwood, the late Rev. Timothy Wright, and the late Walter Hawkins just to name a few. Pastor Wright found his gift in acting where he starred in his 1st gospel stage play "Watch Them Dogs" in 1998. From there, there have been many others like When Daddy Got Saved, Juneteenth Story, and in 2014 his 1st independent film "Signed, Sealed, and Delivered." Recently in 2023, he debut in his 1st ever broadway musical "Rent." He is a proud father to one son Collin, and the proud pastor of Star Pilgrim Baptist Church.

Duane Terry

John / Daddy

Erric Duane Terry — Duane, who we know him by, is a gospel recording artist who is actually from Liberal, Kansas but moved to Lake Charles, La., during his high school years then to Lafayette where he lives presently. He is a graduate of LaGrange High, attended McNeese State University, and the University of Southwest Louisiana. Duane is well known by others for his contagious smile, positive attitude, uplifting spirit, and energy given when on stage doing what he does best, and that is, Singing, Praising and Worshiping God. He grew up in a church surrounded by music. His mother is the legendary gospel recording artist Evangelist Ruby Terry, and he has multiple family members who are familiar in the gospel industry. Duane Terry, founder of Duane Terry & G.R.O.U.P. (God Representatives of Undignified Praise), started his ensemble in 2011 from a vision given to him by the Lord. His passion for music has afforded him many opportunities to perform with various artists known to the gospel industry such as, but not limited to: Tye Tribbett, Dorinda Clark-Cole, Marvin Sapp, James Fortune, Karen Clark-Sheard, Bishop Rance Allen, and the late great Timothy Wright. As a songwriter/composer, producer, music director, and music clinician, Duane believes that the lifestyle he lives should be one that is a representation of what is sung.

Emalise Stark

Caroline

Emalise (Ema) Stark is a 10-year-old actress from Lafayette, Louisiana, and a rising fifth-grade student in the LPSS gifted program. This is her second time portraying “Caroline” in The Juneteenth Story. The 2024 production of TJS was her stage debut. She is excited to once again perform alongside her brother, Logan, who play “Archie.” When she isn’t on stage, Ema enjoys crafting, baking, spending time with friends and family, and developing her gymnastics skills. She understands the importance of learning and sharing Black history and is proud to be part of this production alongside so many talented artists.

Grady Elmore

Massa

Grady has been active in local theater since 2021 and is honored to be a part of this production. Some of his favorite roles include Captain Von Trapp in The Sound of Music, Leporello in Don Juan In Chicago and King Arthur in Spamalot. Grady would like to thank you for supporting local theater and hopes to see you at future productions in the area.

Jalissia Benjamin

Esther / Alex

Jalissia is a dedicated and accomplished performer with experience across stage and screen. Her recent theater credits include Bartender: The Musical (2024), Freaky Friday: The Musical (2025), POTUS (2026), and Fabulation (2026). Her film and television credits include Sinners (2025), a 2025 Super Bowl commercial, and The Family Business: New Orleans (2025). A proud participant in annual Juneteenth productions since 2022, Jalissia is passionate about using storytelling to celebrate Black culture, history, and resilience. She continues to build a body of work that is both impactful and unforgettable.

Jayden Price

Jayden

Jayden Price is 8 years old and excited to make his stage debut in this 2026 production of The Juneteenth Story; written by his granny. This is his very first time performing on stage, and he is thrilled to be part of the show alongside his family. Jayden has enjoyed learning about theater and making special memories during rehearsals. He hopes you enjoy watching the performance as much as he has enjoyed being a part of it!

Joshua Wright

Featured Singer (Isaac)

Dr. Joshua Nathaniel Wright was born on August 5th 1983 in Hahn Rheinland-Pfalz, Germany. He is currently a native of New Iberia, Louisiana. He attended the University of Louisiana-Lafayette, graduating in the Fall of 2007 with a Bachelors of Liberal Arts in English minoring in Child Psychology. The UL-Lafayette Gospel Choir was one of his most memorable experiences on campus, and the birthplace of his artist name "The GospelJukeBox." He later graduated from Liberty University with a Master's of Arts in Theological Studies, and recently received his PhD in Christian counseling and therapy. He has appeared on many popular singing show competitions: American Idol, the Voice, Sunday Best, X-Factor, and Gospel Dream. He has also had the opportunity and pleasure to sing for and work with such artists as Dorinda Clark-Cole, Jason Nelson, Kurt Carr, and Vicki Winans. Joshua has also been fortunate to enter the challenging world of acting too. He performed in his first musical "Halie: The Mahalia Jackson Story," played Asagai in "A Raisin in the Sun," and in 2023 made his return to the stage in "Along the Nile" at UL-Lafayette as the High Priest Moosa. In 2024, he performed in the Broadway adaptation of "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical." Currently, Joshua is in the process of working and creating new ventures for his brand J.N. Wright Productions.

Kaedyn Brown

Peaches / Imani

Kaedyn Brown is a native of Lafayette and currently attends Lafayette Renaissance Charter Academy Middle. She has been a dedicated member of FIRE Expressions Performing Arts Conservatory for the past eight years, where she has continued to grow her passion for the performing arts. Kaedyn loves dancing and proudly serves as a Blue Sapphire on the LRCM dance team, as well as a member of the Tiger Phi Tiger step team. In addition to performing, she enjoys reading and has recently developed a love for playing the piano. Academically, Kaedyn is an honor roll student who excels in Reading and Math. She has received recognition for her outstanding character, particularly for demonstrating kindness and perseverance through challenges and school activities. She was also honored with a nomination for Student of the Year. Kaedyn is the daughter of Kennan and Nieka Brown. She has one brother, Kennan Jr., and a beloved dog named Coco. She is thrilled to share the stage with her mother and fellow cast members in this special production.

Kennedy Davis

Belle / Toni

Kennedy Davis is a senior at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing. A passionate storyteller, performer, and creative professional, Kennedy has participated in The Juneteenth Story annually since 2022, bringing history and culture to life through the arts. Outside of the stage, Kennedy has experience in marketing, event coordination, public relations, and community outreach. She enjoys using creativity to connect with others, whether through performance, content creation, writing, or public engagement. Kennedy is passionate about celebrating culture, preserving history, and inspiring meaningful conversations through storytelling. She is honored to once again be a part of The Juneteenth Story and would like to thank the cast, crew, and audience for supporting this important celebration of freedom, resilience, and community.

Logan Stark

Archie

Logan Stark is a 12-year-old actor from Lafayette, LA. He is a rising 7th grade Arts Academy student where he takes daily theatre classes. He is also part of the LPSS Talented Theatre program. He has performed in numerous productions in both school and around the community. When he isn’t acting, Logan enjoys soccer, video games, swimming, hanging out with friends, and playing with his dog. He likes spending time in nature, hiking and camping. This is Logan’s second year playing “Archie” in “The Juneteenth Story.” He is honored to be a part of this production and to share the importance of Black history with audiences.

Nieka Brown

Janet

Nieka Brown is a native of New Orleans and has proudly called Lafayette home for the past 27 years. With nearly two decades of experience in education, she currently serves as the Enrollment and Marketing Manager for Lafayette Renaissance Charter Academy PK–4 Campus. Nieka earned a Master of Arts in Education with a specialization in Family and Community Services from Ashford University and a Bachelor of Science in Child and Family Studies from University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Following college, she enlisted in the United States Army as a Specialist in Psychological Operations, where she proudly served during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. During her military service, she received the Army Commendation Medal along with several additional honors and recognitions. Outside of her professional and community work, Nieka enjoys staying active in the gym and participating in races, where she proudly collects medals from her accomplishments over the years. Nieka is married to Kennan Brown Sr., owner of Aww Shucks Food Truck. Together they are the proud parents of two wonderful children, Kennan Jr. and Kaedyn, along with their beloved dog, Coco. Nieka is especially honored and excited to share the stage with her daughter, Kaedyn, and fellow cast members in this special production.

Oyin Bode-Omolou

Queen Mother

Raymond Smith Jr.

Tom

Raymond Smith Jr. is a native of Alexandria, Louisiana, and currently resides in Lafayette, Louisiana. He enjoys exploring new restaurants, playing baseball, spending time at the park, riding his scooter, playing his Meta Quest, and reading. Juneteenth marks his debut acting role, making it an exciting milestone in his creative journey.

Roderick Tripp Jr.

Isaac / Matthew

RJ Tripp is a Lafayette, Louisiana native and a highly decorated former athlete who transitioned into the arts during his senior year of high school. Amid the global shutdown of 2020, he discovered a deep and instinctive passion for creative expression, marking the beginning of his artistic journey. RJ holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication with a concentration in Broadcasting, along with a minor in Theatre, from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. During his time there, he achieved notable milestones, including becoming a Verified Spotify Artist with over 1,000 streams and earning recognition as a Las Cruces Film Festival qualifier. With several years of experience across acting, music production, videography, and directing, RJ continues to expand his creative scope and refine his artistic voice. He is driven by a mission to inspire audiences through meaningful expression, produce work that fosters unity, and contribute positively to the cultural landscape through boundless creativity. His musical work can be found under the stage name RIPPUH on all major streaming platforms. A selection of his video shorts are also available at RoderickTripp.com

Teka Briscoe

Featured Singer

Tiffany Morgan

Mae / Mama Eunice

Tiffany Morgan was born in Brooklyn, New York. At the age of three, her mother brought her to Louisiana, unknowingly setting her on a path she is still walking today. Her artistic journey began at The Dance Factory of Franklin, where she developed a love for performance and creative expression. That foundation led her to the historic Carver Theater in New Orleans, where she participated in a year-long residency that further shaped her skills as a performer and storyteller. Over the years, Tiffany has built an impressive body of work on stage, appearing in productions including Single Black Female, The Vagina Monologues, Ain't Misbehavin', and To Kill a Mockingbird. She later made her silver-screen debut as Attorney General Jackie Styles in Gumbo 2. Beyond her work as an actress, Tiffany is an award-winning community activist, author, public speaker, director, costume designer, makeup artist, and advocate for survivors of domestic violence. Today, Tiffany serves on the board of Soulful Productions in Franklin, Louisiana, and is preparing to launch CORE, her own nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing arts-based therapy and creative opportunities to children. She is honored to be a part of The Juneteenth Story. Above all, Tiffany considers her greatest role to be that of a mother.

Tina A. Burkhalter

Aunt Emma

Tina A. Burkhalter is an actor, director, playwright, poet, and educator with an MFA in Acting from California State University, Fullerton. She is a founding member of Heritage Parc’s Black Theatre Experience (BTE) and recently co-directed and performed as Undine in Fabulation. She is thrilled to now appear in The Juneteenth Story as Aunt Emma. Past performance credits include Fences, Intimate Apparel, Precious Little, Dark and Stormy, and her original one-woman show My Life in Two Acts. Her directing credits include Fabulation, Topdog/Underdog, Stop Kiss, and Dog Sees God. Tina is an Associate Professor of Theatre at South Louisiana Community College, where she mentors emerging artists and storytellers. She also offers private acting and voice-for-the-stage lessons. An Irene Ryan Finalist and VASTA Vocal Excellence Award recipient, Tina is dedicated to storytelling that uplifts marginalized voices, fosters dialogue, and deepens community engagement. Learn more or book private lessons at TinaABurkhalter.com or on Instagram @tab1376.

Todd Alexander Jr.

Tom

Toy Celestine

Aunt Sissy / Mama

Toy Carmouche Celestine A native of Crowley, Louisiana, Toy Carmouche Celestine is no stranger to the stage. While she is known for her powerful and spirit-filled singing in church, she is honored to expand her artistic expression through theater. Toy has previously been a part of theatrical productions including Stranger In My House by J. Dugar, Single Bells by Jessica Hudson and Fabulation or the Re-education of Undine by Lynn Nottage. She is the devoted wife of Johnell Celestine, and together they reside happily in Opelousas, Louisiana. Toy is a proud graduate of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. With a deep love for education, she lives by the belief that “if you can think it, you can achieve it—and more.” In her spare time, Toy enjoys crafting, shopping, cooking and making memories with her family and friends, who remain her greatest support system. Above all, God is the center of her life, and she finds immense joy in using her gifts to inspire others and glorify Him through the arts. Her favorite scripture, Philippians 3:16, serves as a guiding principle: to walk in the truth you have attained and remain steadfast in purpose. Toy firmly believes that only what you do for Christ and His people will last.

Tucker Dufrene

Jeremy

Tucker Dufrene is a Lafayette native who recently just graduated with his bachelor’s from the UL School of Theatre and Dance. He is extremely honored and privileged to be a part of this production. He would like to shoutout his moms Miko and Charlotte, without them he wouldn’t be who he is today. He hopes all of you enjoy the show and become more educated in this culture as he has. Stay blessed.

Zekiah Smith

Featured Dancer (Isaac)

Zekiah Smith is a community dancer born and raised in Lafayette, Louisiana. Zekiah started his dance journey at Fire Expression Dance Conservatory (2014) under the ownership of Leigha Porter. His most recent performance was “Preservation” 2024 artistically directed by Leigha Porter. He also made several appearances at University of Louisiana at Lafayette Dance productions such as State a La Danse and Evening of Dance since 2024. This is Zekiah’s first Juneteenth Performance where he dance the role as Isaac!

Zoe Handy

Peaches / Imani

Zoe is 10 years old and loves using her imagination to create and bring new ideas to life. Whether she’s performing on stage, making art, or dreaming up something new, she enjoys expressing herself in creative ways. She is no stranger to the spotlight and loves the excitement of performing. Confident, determined, and full of energy, Zoe believes she can accomplish anything she sets her mind to. She is excited to be part of this production and hopes you enjoy the show!