The Renaissance Guild

Black Nativity Cast Bios
All Photos by Ron Abrams unless noted

Alma Ball Nathaniel (Old Woman/Ensemble) is a native of the Sweet Home community in Seguin, Texas. She is the youngest of twelve siblings and is a graduate of the Class of 1950 at Sweet Home High School. Mrs. Nathaniel is a mother of six children and grandmother of fourteen and great-grandmother of four. Her favorite scripture is Psalm 37:25. She has a great passion for encouraging the younger generation and others that are in need.

Anita Steemer (Female Narrator/Ensemble) Her performances of mimicry, has been featured in many Christian plays throughout two of the seven continents; that of North America, from the East coast to the West coast, and as far away as Europe. Her most concern is for the youth of today, that they would come to know God for themselves and seek Him in all facets of their lives.

Anthony L.D. Hall Jr. (Praise dancer/ Choreographer) is a college student at Northeast Lakeview College majoring in Radiology and minoring in Fine Arts, and also volunteers with Acts of Kindness and many more organizations. This is Anthony’s first play with The Renaissance Guild. He was on the dance team (hip-hop) while in high school (Wagner Class of 2009), and the Holy Redeemer Praise Team, also being honored to minister in dance for the 2008 Martin Luther King March, with his brother. He wants to thank The Renaissance Guild for this opportunity. He really wants to thanks Ms. Danielle King for everything, his family friends for the support and the most high-His Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Bedell Springs (Ensemble) This marks her first time doing something like this since high school and it has been a wonderful experience. She would like to give thanks to her God and the very important people who support her always; her kids Tanya, Tommy, Taryn, and her Beautiful Grandkids A.J., Taraja, Nakailia, and Trey who has her whole heart. Thanks to her church family and the youth of Dodd Field Chapel who keeps her on her toes and young at heart. Blessings!

Belinda Williams (Ensemble/Vocalist) makes her stage debut in this production. She is a Certified Special Education Teacher and School Counselor with a Master’s in School Psychology. Her interests are in family activities, music, singing, theater, and she strives to be a woman after God’s own heart.

Breanna Thompson (Ensemble) is a native of San Antonio, Texas. A practicing Christian, and graduate of Business Careers High School. This is Breanna’s debut in a production of The Renaissance Guild. She plans to continue in many more productions, singing and acting.

Briana Coleman (Ensemble/Vocalist) is a practicing Christian who is making her debut in the TRG production The Black Nativity. She plans to continue her career in more TRG performances. She would like to give thanks to her friends and family for the support.

Brenda Height (Ensemble/Woman Testifying in church) this Georgia girl has been testifying, preaching, and teaching since she was eight years old. She knows very well the calling that Gods have on her life and have been through plenty of storms to know and to share that “trouble don’t last always” and “her trails comes to make her stronger”. She enjoys her quite time sitting on the front porch and making “a joyful noise unto the Lord” and family fellowship.

Charles Riley (Shepard Ned/Ensemble) was born and raised in San Antonio, Tx. In 1998 he graduated from John Jay High school. With TRG he has done “Fences”, “Dearly Departed”, “ Ma’ Rainy’s Black Bottom”, “Runors” and numerous One Acts. He is also appearing on the TLC channel’s show “Personal Justice”, and In a commercial for Amazon.com. Charles is very excited about how everything will come together. All praises due to God!!!

Chasity Fulmer (Angel/Vocalist) graduated from Sam Houston High, was founder of the Royal-t Stepteam that is now an elective course at John Jay High School. Chasity is also a past member of the Americorp program in San Antonio, TX, CCDS girl scout leader at Cameron elementary in 2002. She has a certification in nursing.

Daphne Kaplan (Praise Dancer) is a member of Dodd Field Chapel Gospel Service and has been a member of the praise dance team for the last 3 years. This is her first acting performance in the production of The Black Nativity play where she will be the ensemble and a praise dancer. “Life Is Good!”

Ella Nathaniel (Female Narrator #1 ) This Texas native makes her stage debut in TRG’s The Black Nativity, she has acted in several productions for her church. She is an ordained Elder in the PFC Churches and a practicing nurse for over 20 yrs. She loves God, her kids, grandchildren, family/friends and the Great State of Texas.

Ellen Washington (Vocalist) had her acting debut in the Rose of Sharon Ministries drama, HIStory Part I & II. She has sang background vocals for 3 of the Bobby McMorris B Mo Holy Productions plays ‘Something From Da Past,’ ‘Caught N Candy,’ and ‘He Loves Me, He Loves Me Knot.’ She attends Redeeming Grace Christian Church, under Bishop Brent Bryant, where she assists in praise and worship with the praise team and sings in the choir. She is married to Jonathan Washington and they have 2 small children.

Emilee Jones (Ensemble/Vocalist) is making her debut performance in this production. She is a 5th grader on the Honor Roll and enjoys singing, playing volleyball, and spending time with friends. Her grandparents call her “Sugarlumps”.

Evonne Nathaniel (Angel/Vocalist) was born in Ft Ord California to military, native Texan parents. From an early age, music has been a part of her life. Recognizing their children’s natural harmony and singing ability; Evonne’s parents pushed her and her two old siblings to develop their own musical style. Evonne has shared the stage with Kirk Franklin, Mary Mary, Michael Ward, and Kirk Carl as well as been a featured soloist for artist the likes of Donald Lawrence and Lamar Campbell.

Garfield Swaby (Male Narrator #1/Shepherd – Ted) has several plays and awards to his credit. This is his second performance in a Renaissance Guild production. His favorite saying is, “Yes! I am naturally this handsome.”

Jacob Gutierrez (Shepherd-Zed) has been on stage since the fourth grade appearing in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Macbeth, and Don’t Touch That Dial. He is currently a sophomore in high school where he is a member of The Basics dance club. Jacob will be graduating in 2013 and is planning on attending Texas State University.

Jaelavonniah Johnson (Ensemble) is an eleven year old fifth grader at Salado Intermediate School. Jaela has enjoyed years of Pop Warner Cheerleading with the Longhorns and SE Apaches. Jaela is an excellent cook and enjoys reading books and singing. This is her first play. She has won 3rd place in District 2 on ‘Our Part of Town Talent Show in 2009.

Janece Johnson (Ensemble) is a thirteen year old eighth grader who plans on becoming a veterinarian. Janece joined the church choir at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church at a young age and has been in plays at school and church. Janece enjoys singing, dancing, and cheerleading. She is a also a member of Advanced Theatre Arts at Legacy Middle School.

Jarae Miles (Ensemble) sang with the youth choir as Holy Redeemer Catholic Church during her childhood and teen years. Jarae is a member of (Sigma Alpha Iota) musical sorority and enjoyed singing with Prairie View A&M University Concert Choral. She is also a member of AKA and International Music Fraternity for Women, Inc. Jarae has a newborn son and is completing her undergraduate degree at UTSA. Jarae is also mother to a new born baby boy, Jarrett.

Jeneen Harris (Praise Dancer/Choreographer) a Detroit native, made her first acting debut with TRG’s ActOne series performing as Regina in “Giving Up”. Prior to joining TRG, Jeneen has performed with local church & community drama groups. She has also written and produced a play “Land of Shiloah”. Jeneen is the founder of Great Jubilee Dance Company and Ministries where she educates and mentors in the art of dance within the San Antonio community and surrounding areas.

Jillian Jones (Mary/ Praise Dancer), born in Okinawa, Japan and raised in San Antonio, Tx, will be making her debut in this play as an actress. Jillian will also be performing in this play as a praise dancer. She is currently attending UTSA and majoring in psychology. She wants to thank God for giving her this opportunity to work with such a diverse and wonderful cast and crew. She also thanks her parents, family and friends for their support.

Jimmie L. Steemer II (Musician/Ensemble) has made his acting debut at the Carver Cultural Center, San Antonio, TX; in The Zen Substitute, a production by The Renaissance Guild as actor and musician. The acrostic of his name, Jesus Is My Master-Designer In Everything.

Johnique V Bowzer (Angel/Vocalist) is a risen star in the San Antonio music and theatre scene. Though she is humble her friends refer to her voice as incredible, stunning, and soulful. She is currently pursuing a degree in Biology which she hopes to turn into a successful career as a singing Doctor. She believes music can heal the broken, heart, soul and body. In addition to all of this she is a super duper woman of God. She enjoys long walks in her spare time.

Johnathan McPeters (Ensemble) has participated in numerous church and school plays and is making his stage debut in TRG’s production of the “Black Nativity”. Like his Dad (Marcus) and Mom (Karen) who are also a part of the Black Nativity cast, Johnathan says he too has gotten the acting bug and is looking forward to performing in future TRG productions. Johnathan encourages his audience to “stay tuned”.

Karen McPeters (Ensemble) has worked in various stage productions at Kingwood College in the Houston area including “Quadroon Ball” and “Do Black Patent Leather Shoes Really Reflect Up” which landed her several scholarships from the Fine Arts Department. She is honored to be a part of Black Nativity and working with such an amazing cast and crew. She wants to thank her family for traveling from Houston to support her and her family (Marcus, Johnathan and Briana).

Kenny Patterson (King #3/Elder) is performing for the first time with The Renaissance Guild; however, he’s no stranger to the stage. In San Antonio, Kenny has appeared in performances with the Woodlawn and Trinity University theaters. He has also appeared in a number of productions across the Midwest. When he’s not performing, he works for the Alamo Colleges, and he is also pursuing a doctorate degree.

Lorenzo D.F Hall (praise dancer) Lorenzo is a senior at The Lee Academy of Science & Engineering (class of 2011). This will be his first play with the Renaissance Guild and he’s an active member at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church- the only black Catholic church in San Antonio. He’s on the praise team there and is an active volunteer with Acts of Kindness (AOK) under the direction of Mrs. Veronica Berry-Jones. Lorenzo would like to thank The Renaissance Guild for this great opportunity, and he sends love to his family friends supporters and his mostly god.

Lucy V. Briggs (Innkeeper/Vocalist) has been an avid supporter of TRG from their first season and has performed in several of the Act One Series. Lucy dedicates this performance in memory of her Father who was a minister of the gospel, who taught her with joy and great conviction the nativity story and proclaimed it to the world. “Thanks Dad, I love you.”

Marcus McPeters (Singer) is a native Houstonian who moved to San Antonio Texas in 2006. He started his singing career at North Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Cleveland Texas and has been invited to sing at various churches and community events. He makes his stage debut in TRG’s production of the “Black Nativity”. Marcus says that he has gotten the “acting bug” and is looking forward to working in future productions with TRG.

Michaela Edwards (Little Girl) is thankful and blessed to be a part of “Black Nativity.” She has performed in “Seussical the Musical,” as the Baby Kangaroo. Michaela also sang a solo while portraying the Virgin Mary in the 2009 St. Luke Catholic Church’s Christmas program, where she attends school. She is an active member of the award winning, Holy Redeemer Catholic Church Youth Choir, and puts her heart into her singing.

Patrick Gathron (Male Narrator #2) is a Dallas, TX native, who is attending school as a sophomore as the University of Texas at San Antonio. Patrick first began his acting career in his theatre arts class when he was thirteen years old. Since then he has starred in school plays all the way to his senior year in high school. This is the first production play that Patrick performed in since graduating from high school, and says that he is excited and will take his acting career a long way.

Pauline I. Perry (Narrator #2/Ensemble) is a practicing Christian who loves praising God in songs and dance. She is a retired Army Personnel Manager who served 22 years on active duty in the US Army. She hails from Jamaica and this is her debut in the Black Nativity, SATX. Pauline holds a dual Masters degree in Human Resources and Management from Webster University and recently received her Master of Arts degree in Community Counseling from St Mary’s University.

Robert Tre’Vonte’ Young (King #2/Ensemble) is a 17 year old student at the School of Excellence in Education, Hawkins Campus. He is a gifted and multi-talented young man. The Lord has Blessed him the gift of song, because he has been singng since he was three years old, and directing since he was two years old. Being multi-faceted, Robert not only sings, but he is also a musician. He plays the drums, piano/keyboard, organ, and percussion. Robert is a member of New Covenant Missionary Baptist Church.

Ruel Martens (Shepherd – Jed) is a local talent who has experience in several productions with the Renaissance Guild. He also has experience as a voice-talent along with commercial print and video work. Professionally, Ruel works as a Pharmaceutical Sales Rep and he is also active with his church, The Maranatha Bible Church. Ruel has also been involved with Big Brothers & Big Sisters Program. His interests are Health & Fitness, Sports, Geography, History, Travel, and Cooking. Ruel thanks God, his family and friends for support!

Scharlette Donald (Angel/Vocalist) is an actress, vocalist, and writer. She has participated in multiple TRG productions since 2007. She has performed in multiple local music venues in San Antonio, Dallas, and Austin as she continues to pursue her passion of music, theatre, and writing.

Shaundra Gail Lamkin (Vocalist) studies in the performing arts began at Brackenridge High School. Her studies continued at St. Philips College and Huston-Tilloston College in Austin, TX. Shaundra has spent 10+ years in the gospel/jazz community of San Antonio as a vocalist, an artist/stage manager, event promoter, and avid supporter. Her most recent performance was her first with TRG in Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom. Shaundra is also dedicated to helping raise awareness for Autism which affects 1 in 90 children.

Shian Kaplan (Praise Dancer) Born in Georgia and raised in Texas, she has been dancing for seven years at the Dodd Field Chapel. Shian also loves to draw and cook. Recently she enlisted in the Marines, and is ready to start this new chapter of her life. Shian, later on, plans to get her Masters in Art Animation.

Thomas M. Harris (Joseph/Ensemble) makes his stage debut with TRG. He is a Sergeant First Class in the United States Army with 15 years of service. He is a singer and enjoys spending time with his beautiful wife Gwynne and their three beautiful children: Deasia, TJ, and Kamari. He is a member of Redeeming Grace Christian Church and wants to thank his family and friends for all of their support.

Tonya Kaplan (Ensemble/Choir Director/Praise DANCER) currently is a member of Dodd Field Chapel at Fort Sam Houston. She’s a native of Princeton, Ky. She received her education at San Antonio college of Law Enforcement, to work with juveniles and adult detention centers. She also is going back to school to get her nursing license.

Tramelle D Jones (Vocalist) is a non-profit professional who enjoys making a positive impact on her community, both in her work and leisure time. She is a “Big Sister” with Big Brothers Big Sisters and leads a Girl Scouts Troop. She’s been involved in music since she was very young. She currently performs with the Donald Beford Reunion Choir and performs the National Anthem at various events. This is her first theatrical performance.

Black Nativity Crew Bios
All Photos by Ron Abrams unless noted

Danielle King (Director) is a practicing Christian, Co-Founder of The Renaissance Guild-San Antonio’s Premiere Black Theatre Company, and founder of DramaChild Productions. Her recent theatre performances include roles in Hairspray, Rumors, Crimes of the Heart, Ethics Follies, Black & Blue, and the musical Crowns. She has won several Alamo Theatre Arts Council Globe Awards, including her last two for Best Actress in a Drama for Blues for An Alabama Sky, and Best Supporting Actress in a Musical for Nuncrackers. Her upcoming project in February includes reprising her award-winning role as Truvy in TRG’s Steel Magnolias.

Sharon Lisa Smith (Assistant Director, Costumes Designer) is a Director, Writer, Actress, Poet, Co-owner of Hallelujah Films. She is an ATAC Judge for San Antonio, is represented by Condra Artista Talent Agency, and was over True Vision Church Drama Ministry for 7 yrs. She has been in several stage plays and was the Lead Actress for “I’m Still A Man”, and “A Way Out” A B MoHoly Produtions. She has been in over 15 TV commercials including HEB, Target, Taco Cabana, Via, and Ancira, several short films, and in the 2006 Movie “The Return”. She is truly blessed and Loves the Lord, without God none of this would have been possible.

Adele Sewell (Stage Manager) had her debut to the stage in the musical Hairspray at The Woodlawn Theater. Adele, having watched so many performances from a young age, decided to finally take a step out of the audience and onto the stage. In performing, she found it to be such an invigorating experience, and being able to work behind the scenes has been a new and exciting endeavor. Adele would like to thank Danielle King and The Renaissance Guild for such a wonderful opportunity.

Jonathan Washington (Musical Director) is a San Antonio native. He took a early interest in playing instruments at just the age of 6. Since that age he has learned to play the drums, bass guitar and the keyboards. He has served under some great ministries in the San Antonio area and is blessed to be the current Minister of Music at Redeeming Grace Christian Church. He’s also and a member of The Owners Jazz Band.

Jesse Arenas (Light Designer) is the Head of Production Lighting at San Antonio Sound & Light. He is the company’s webmaster and also helps in the lighting design on permanent installations. Recently he designed the lighting for a corporate event that produced a musical revue on Broadway in New York City. He has worked in production in San Antonio for over 13 years. He worked with Renaissance Guild for over 8 years and loves working with such great people and shows the company produces.

Ron Abrams (Photographer – abramsphotography.com) was born in Tampa, Florida and moved to San Antonio after retiring from the US ARMY in 2005. He received his BS in Management in May of this year. He has photographed for the Renaissance Guild from 2008 to present. Fabulation, and ActOne series plays are of his latest photography projects and has done exceptional work in presenting the great photography you see in this flyer.

Ivan Smith (Videographer) is the Assistant Director and Co-owner of Hallelujah Films where he is the film director and editor. He has been in a few stage productions and short films, but his love is behind the lens. He has filmed several plays at the Carver Theatre, many weddings, and has also filmed several of the Annual Martin Luther King events. Ivan can be reached at isechoices@aol.com.

Paul Riddle Jr. (Producer) is a Co-Founder and President of TRG. Paul began his acting career over 16 years ago and some of his on stage appearances include The Gin Game, Raisin In the Sun, Ceremonies in Dark Old Men, Fences, Betrayal and Blessed Assurance. Paul produced several ActOne and Mainstage plays including the ATAC winning production of A Raisin in the Sun. He is happy to watch others on and off stage enjoying the magic of theatre. Paul continues to thank God and all of the support from patrons, family and friends.