REVIEW: Hairspray at Workshop Theatre – A High-Energy, Heartfelt Hit!

By Jane Peterson

If you’re looking for a night of infectious energy, dazzling performances, and toe-tapping tunes, look no further than Workshop Theatre’s production of Hairspray! Under the direction of Julian DeLeon, with musical direction by Taylor Diveley, this production brings all the fun, heart, and powerful messages of the beloved musical to life.

With music by Marc Shaiman and lyrics by Scott Wittman and Marc Shaiman, Hairspray transports audiences to 1962 Baltimore, where Tracy Turnblad dreams of dancing on the local Corny Collins Show. Along the way, she fights for inclusion and racial equality—an ever-relevant message wrapped in a colorful, high-energy package.

From the moment the curtain rises, the cast delivers. Abby Brewer shines as Tracy, perfectly embodying the character’s charm, confidence, and powerhouse vocals. She captures Tracy’s optimism and determination, making her a protagonist you can’t help but root for. Charlie Grant brings classic heartthrob appeal as Link Larkin, effortlessly balancing Link’s internal struggle between fame and doing what’s right. Erin Niland is a scene-stealer as Amber Von Tussle, the spoiled and scheming rival who brings just the right mix of comedic villainy and show-stopping vocals.

As Tracy’s delightfully awkward best friend, Isabella DeCola (Penny Pingleton) delivers an endearing and hilarious performance. Opposite her, M. Lamont Gleason (Wilson/EJ Lofgren) is a standout, exuding cool confidence and bringing smooth dance moves that light up the stage.

The adult cast is equally phenomenal. Davis Herndon (Edna Turnblad) gives a warm, hilarious, and heartfelt performance, bringing both humor and humanity to Tracy’s devoted mother. Her chemistry with Chris Kruzner (Wilbur Turnblad) is a highlight, especially in their charming duet, You’re Timeless to Me. Jessica Roth (Velma Von Tussle) is delightfully devious as the controlling, bigoted producer of The Corny Collins Show, while Christy Shealy Mills (Prudy Pingleton) plays Penny’s overbearing mother with just the right amount of exaggerated sternness, but whose turnaround near the end is hysterical.

And then there’s Mia Oliver, a newcomer to the stage in Columbia, whose portrayal of Motormouth Maybelle is nothing short of extraordinary. Her soul-stirring rendition of I Know Where I’ve Been was an unforgettable, goosebump-inducing moment that left the audience in awe. Her presence on stage is magnetic, and her vocals are nothing short of breathtaking. Definitely some Gospel experience here!

The ensemble deserves immense praise for their energy, vocal strength, and commitment to their roles. Each performer brings a unique personality to the stage, ensuring that every scene feels vibrant and alive. Joy Alexander’s choreography is dynamic, especially with such a large cast.

Visually, the show is a treat. The set, though minimal, works seamlessly for this production, with smooth transitions that keep the pacing tight. The costumes are spot-on, capturing the vibrant spirit of the early ‘60s with bold colors and fun silhouettes.

Running through March 22 at Cottingham Theatre, Hairspray is a must-see for theatre lovers of all ages. Tickets are available at workshoptheatreofsc.com or by calling (803) 799-6551. Don’t miss your chance to experience this lively, heartfelt production!

Poetry of the People featuring Brooklyn Brown

This week's Poet of the People is Brooklyn Brown. 

Every year, two or three young poets meander into Cool Beans and adopt Mind Gravy Poetry as their home away from home. They are in love with poetry, but put off by the way they have been taught poetry; they believe the best poetry is from the heart - understandable and not obtuse. 

Brooklyn is a bolt of light in a fearsome night and assures me that poetry is cradled in good young hands.

~Al Black

Twenty-year-old Brooklyn Brown is a student at U of SC and believes that art is activism. She practices this notion through her poetry. She hopes to be a voice for young people who are struggling with the ups and downs of early-adulthood while also confronting bigger world issues. A creative from a young age, Brooklyn often expresses the turmoil of her own adolescence in her writing. Brooklyn is inspired by the classic romantic and confessionary poets that came before her, and hopes to connect with her readers’ senses through concrete language and vivid imagery, believing that good poetry is not only understood, but felt.

Peeling Oranges 

I split my finger 

on a piece of paper 

yesterday. 

today, 

you want oranges. 

you enjoy the way

the pulp does glut 

your shallow throat. 

and if the consumption

should bring you pleasure, 

I will peel and peel–

only stopping for a moment

inbetween, to wince

at the citrusy sting.

____

Question 

I have a question—

for legislators who have

an obsession with oppression, 

and teaching lessons 

that put people in their proper places

assigned by the shapes

of the features on their face, 

or the colors of

the skins 

that they live in. 

I have a question—

for the men in these positions 

at the top of their systems, 

I have question, 

about my body, 

about its most vital organ, 

not my mitochondria heart, 

but my ovaries, of course. 

I think that they are art— 

But, do their brush strokes

maim you? 

because they paint a mirror image of

the same ones that

made you? 

Is it self loathing or a hatred 

for the woman who created the soul

that would grow to rule 

the bones of a man so cruel

as you? 

Is it because your mother put 

her foot down 

since your father was 

never around? 

Do you still feel the weight of 

her on your little head

each night before bed

while you lay to rest

next to your wrinkling wife, 

who you’d stab with a hunting knife

if the decision of that fatal incision 

would not make you

look like a bad guy? 

do you dream that

your work to earn 

the respect of your daddy even

after he’s dead will pay

as well as the price of the 

people you damned to hell,

because maybe, 

in heaven you’ll throw a ball

back and forth and 

and back and forth

with him? 

and your miserable actions

will be worth

the poison of your politics, 

because at least you remembered 

to pray about it?  

oh, and I have a question—

for the righteous and resolute; 

if I don’t believe in the same god as you,  

must I burn for the sins that

killed your savior? 

must I adhere to the rules of a ruler 

who I owe nothing to, just because 

you say that’s what I should do? 

are millions of us wrong just because 

you will die on the hill 

where you took a red pill 

that told you you were right? 

well, what if 

my mother’s words

are my hymns, 

and when I hear them

they give me breath 

like my mind has grown a lung, 

and I worship the earth—

because it is she

 who is my creator,  

I’ve been my own savior 

since birth, and I crucified myself to stand

up straight and tall today? 

Is it not good

enough for you, 

that I am imprinted

on the opposite side 

of your same copper penny?

Will you not rest 

until I pass 

your grueling test, 

until you’re sure that 

I’m a perfect copy

of your idealistic embossing?

I’m left deafened by your preaching 

that drowns out children’s cries

who we could have helped

if you’d just be quiet, and listen

for one minute. 

so my question is— 

If you died today

would you die a martyr,

or a failure? 

was your mission for goodness lost 

under your hunger

to indoctrinate innocents? 

Would Jesus be proud 

of your mansion,

while hungry kids imagine 

a fridge full of food 

in a kitchen as big 

as the one that your

god-honoring 

family dines in tonight? 

you make sure to lead 

in saying grace, 

but did you ignore

 your teenage daughters’ 

pale face

as she stares 

at her untouched dinner plate? 

Do you thank god for the meal

that the help prepared, 

and ask for blessings 

before your son runs 

to the bathroom, to hide 

eyes full of acidic tears

because he fears to be 

feminine, so feeling

feelings makes him scared? 

I have a question— 

for leaders who

don’t lead by example; 

is it purpose or power, 

that fuels you? 

is it oath or ego? 

that is my question.

____

Dreams

A river flowing through

my dreams, 

taking pictures far

from me;

good and bad, 

and in between–  

they all float down 

the angry stream; 

until my mind is fresh 

and clean,

and I wake up on my 

sheets serene,

only dampened

by the feelings

that the erosion

left behind overtime. 

I dreamt a dream

 of better things,

and then I dreamt 

I grew white wings 

and flew too close

to a star, ‘till I burned

and turned

torched and charred. 

Lard with color and 

poignant plotlines,

I dream some dreams 

of beautiful things– 

that dense and darken 

before I wake, 

and then my memory

my dreams doth take.

____

TREPIDATION

The trepidation 

of my twenties 

is tilling over my

noisy nerves 

which wont shut up 

about my body,

or the boy

that i'm afraid 

will get bored of it– 

and I think when

I am an old lady

I’ll eat the pies

I bake instead 

of giving them 

away;

I’ll put extra cream

 into my coffee cup;

I’ll write a book

 for young people 

to read;

I think I’ll smell

like nectarine–

and maybe I’ll learn 

to play guitar and sing. 

I think i’ll feed pigeons 

by a fountain, 

and climb

a big mountain;

just to say it’s 

something I did; 

I think I’ll mentor 

a creative little kid. 

I think I might frequent

local art galleries, 

and be known by some

as “that quirky old lady”;

I think I’ll travel more, 

with someone I  adore–

I think I will make a lot

of soup out of peas, 

that no one will like 

to eat but me. 

I think i’ll reach out to a friend

 from high school

and spend more

 of my summers

 in a swimming pool; 

I think i’ll wear 

a cute swimsuit, 

and ignore the way it fits

my herky-jerky divots. 

I think I’ll start to pray; 

not to god,

but to my mother, who

I wish could live forever 

and always be there 

to give me her best answers. 

I think I’ll have children;

 in the form of house cats– 

and wear colorful 

bucket hats. 

I think I’ll care less

 about what people

think, and I will finally love

 all of my body;

because when I wrinkle 

and begin to grey

I’ll thank my bones

 for carrying me 

every day– 

even when my tattoos

 begin to fade

I’ll still have stories

 to tell the twenty-somethings,

 as well

as secrets to take

 to the grave; 

and when I think

 about my face

and how it might look, 

in a few decades– 

I smile at the picture

and wish that

I could hug her

she looks like me, 

but softer;

she’s full of forgiveness

 and laughter

she's a spitting image 

of her golden mother, 

she’s got paleing hazel 

eyes like her father, 

and the confidence

 of her brother. 

But I am her,

and she is me–

 she is everything I can be 

So I don’t have to wait 

to heal my heart,

or create my art;   

I think I just have to start.

The Jasper Project Welcomes New Members to the Board of Directors

We’re excited at the Jasper Project to welcome the following new members to our Board of Directors! These seven new members bring a wealth of experience and new energy to our board and they have already gotten to work doing their parts in helping Jasper meet our four integrated priorities:

• Process – illuminating the unique processes endemic to all art forms in order to provide a greater level of understanding and respect for these disciplines.

• Community/Collaboration – nurturing community both within and between arts disciplines.

• Narrative – creating a more positive and progressive understanding of SC culture.

• Economy – being efficient stewards of arts funding committed to creating more with less.

Help us welcome Meeghan Kane, Rhodes Bailey, Pam Bowers, Lauren Casassa, Stan Conine, Dick Moons, and Liz Stalker who join our already assembled board members Wade Sellers (president), Keith Tolen (vice president), Emily Moffitt (secretary), Kristin Cobb, Libby Campbell, Kwasi Brown, Jon Tuttle, Bekah Corbett (operating director), and Cindi Boiter (founder, executive director).

Currently, Meeghan Kane leads community engagement efforts at the South Carolina State Museum, developing public programs and supporting and fostering community relationships and partnerships with fellow cultural institutions and organizations. Prior to joining the museum team, Meeghan taught history at Benedict College for over a decade, where she specialized in African American history, 20th century cultural history, and the history of the American South. She moved to Columbia, South Carolina, from Tampa, Florida, in 2006 to join USC’s graduate program in history after completing her B.A. and M.A. at the University of South Florida. These days, if she’s not at the museum, you’ll likely find her and her family enjoying nice meals in local restaurants, day tripping to the mountains, camping in SC’s state parks, road-tripping back home to Florida, and, most importantly, enjoying the arts and culture of the Midlands. Meeghan is excited to be a part of the Jasper board. She hopes to help artists and arts supporters build new ways to connect and reach new audiences.

Rhodes Bailey is an attorney and the owner of Rhodes Bailey Law, LLC, and a long-term member of the Midlands-based band Whiskey Tango Revue with whom he plays guitar and pedal steel. A graduate of the College of Charleston and the University of SC School of Law (2007), where he received the Trial Clinic’s Professionalism Award, Rhodes is married and has two children. Rhodes says he is “looking forward to collaborating with like-minded artists and fostering talent in our state.” He somewhat jokingly continues, “I hope to help solve problems as needed and keep my fellow artists out of Jail!”

Pam Bowers is a Chicago native, but for the past 20 years she has divided her time between Columbia, South Carolina, the Umbrian hill town she calls her second home, and her world travels. Pam has exhibited her work internationally at venues that include the Guilin Academy of Chinese Painting in China, the University of Fine Arts in Budapest, numerous venues in Italy, University of Newcastle in Australia, and the Ecole Nationale in Rabat, Morocco. Nationally she has exhibited at the Bowery Gallery, New York, Blue Mountain Gallery New York, ARC and WMG galleries in Chicago, and many other university or museum venues including the State Museum of South Carolina, City Gallery at Waterfront Park In Charleston, the University of North Carolina, Charlotte, and St. Mary's College of Notre Dame, among others. Pam has lectured on her work and conducted numerous workshops both here and abroad.

Lauren Casassa is originally from Tulsa, Oklahoma. She received her BFA in Painting at the University of South Carolina and has been awarded the Scholastic Art & Writing Gold Key Award for excellence in Visual Arts, the Yaghjian Studio arts scholarship at USC, and the 2018 Artfields Solo Award Exhibition at Jones-Carter Gallery. She has been featured in Garnet and Black, Daily Gamecocks, The State, Free Times, and Susie Magazine. She has lectured for classes at USC, SC State University, and spent a summer residency in Monte Castello, Italy. Exhibitions include group shows in Italy, New York, South Carolina and solo shows in Iowa and South Carolina. 

Stan Conine is the retired President and Broker-in-Charge of The Conine Group, Inc. and the former Campus Director of Birchwood Campus, SC Department of Youth Services (currently SCDJJ) and a Life member in the Circle of Excellence of Central Carolina Realtors Association. He has a B.S. in Sociology from Georgia College, an M.Ed. in Counselor Education from University of South Carolina, and a M.C.J. in Criminal Justice also from USC. Stan says, “I have long respected The Jasper Project for promoting and supporting local artists of all genres, and for creating and promoting events which make it acceptable, normal even, for folks from all neighborhoods, all backgrounds, and all educational levels to access, enjoy, and appreciate the creativity in the works of these artists.” He continues, “I hope that I will be able to help Jasper expand and extend its support to more people with artistic dreams, including the very young and the very old, and I hope that I will be able to help spur an effort to bridge the gap and encourage more cooperation and coordination among different arts organizations with common goals in the Midlands area.”

Dick Moons says he is a “retired corporate flunky,” certified sound practitioner, professional drum circle facilitator, dad, and grandfather. Dick says he joined the Jasper Project board of directors because he believes “in what Jasper is about, its mission, and the way Jasper has gone about implementing and fulfilling its vision.” He continues to explain that “being a part of a talented bunch of folks who donate their time and energy for nothing more than their love of the arts – and thereby making Columbia a far cooler place” is reason enough to join the Jasper team.”

Liz Stalker is a 2024 graduate of USC with honors and a bachelors degree in English. The winner of the 2023 Havilah Babcock scholarship for poetry, Liz enjoys poetry and filmmaking when she isn’t serving up caffeine at Curiosity Coffee Bar. A former intern with the Jasper Project, Liz says, “I joined the Jasper board because Jasper opened a world of local artists to me, and I would love to help do that for others.”

The Jasper Project Mission Statement

The Jasper Project is a project-oriented, multidisciplinary arts facilitator serving the greater Columbia and South Carolina communities by providing collaborative arts engineering and community-wide arts communication.

Jasper Congratulates Winning Student Poets in the My Streets, My Stories Competition

My Street, My Story:

Celebrating History and Community through Youth Expression

Sarah Mae Flemming

In 2024, Columbia-area high school students were invited to participate in “My Street, My Story: Celebrating History and Community through Youth Expression,” a visual and literary arts contest created by the USC Center for Civil Rights History and Research. Inspired by the Center’s exhibition, Intersection on Main Street: African American Life in Columbia, in the Columbia Museum of Art’s Our Story Matters gallery, students were encouraged to use their preferred methods of artistic or written expression to create a body of work drawing connections from the stories of community and resilience of the Historic Black Business District in Columbia to their own present-day experiences in their community. 

The Jasper Project’s executive director, Cindi Boiter, was asked to serve as an adjudicator of the creative non-fiction portion of the competition and subsequently offered to further promote the participants in the project by publishing the winning poems in Jasper Online.

Winnings student poets include first place winner Alana Hills, who is a 9th grader at Richland Northeast High School; second place winner, Maelyn Carter, an 11th grader also at Richland Northeast; and third place winner, La’Cora Howell, an 11th grader at Ridge View High School.

Congratulations to all three winners whose works are published below. And be sure to pick up a copy of the spring 2025 issue of Jasper Magazine (May 2025) where you’ll find Alana Hills’ poem in print!

Sarah Mae Flemming

by Alana Hills

In the quiet of the South, where the roads were long, Sarah Mae Flemming

Stood strong, where others felt wrong.

A woman of courage, though her name not yet known,

She fought for her rights, and she stood all alone.

In the year of ‘54, the city of Columbia’s heat, she took a seat where

The world would meet.

On the bus, in the back where the rules did not bend,

But Sarah Mae’s heart said, “This must end.”

She was no Rosa, yet her spark lit the fire,

A young woman’s act, a fierce, quiet desire.

Before the marches, the protests, the chains breaking free,

She challenged the laws with quiet dignity.

Her name, though less famous, was no less bold,

For Sarah Mae Flemming was part of the story untold.

She planted a seed, one not yet in full bloom,

That would later explode in the fight for room.

To sit where she wished, to stand on her feet,

Her quiet rebellion, her victory so sweet.

A life of resistance, a spark in the night.

Sarah Mae Flemming – a champion for right.

Alayna Hills is a ninth grader at Richland Northeast High school who is enrolled in both full-credit and half-credit classes with the goal of graduating early and attending college. “I want my poetry to be discovered so that I can be recognized for my writing abilities and so college professors will possibly acknowledge my work,” she says. “I have big goals, and I hope that my writing helps me reach them.”

~~~~~

Black Woman Extraordinaire

by Maelyn Carter

Black Woman Extraordinaire 

mess with her, don't you even dare.

Always willing to give those she loves her ALL because she cares.

Delicate as an exotic jewel or stone…She’s oh so rare.

Wearing her Sunday-go-to meeting hat with oh so much flair.

She and Grandpa James Oh what a couple!  What a pair!

And a powerful love is what they shared.  

She’s  seen so much pain and loss almost too much to bare. 

When she walks into the room with all of her century plus poise and grace they all stare. 

All those years still walking in her light yet she doesn't boast or put on any airs.

So fine and classy No one can compare.

She has experienced many of her years on this earth fighting discrimination, racism, oppression,

some say beyond repair.

All of it so unfair.

She says to me “Chile  wear your Full Armor of God and always prepare.

Grandma says live right and I declare, you will make it to the other side over there!

Where there is no pain, no suffering or despair.

Grandma says but you better beware because the devil is always trying to scare,

catch you in a snare and your salvation he will not spare

Grandma says always be aware trust in the Lord and Stay in prayer.

She doesn't have much but her knowledge and wisdom makes her a billionaire.

The best moments are sitting at her feet in her favorite old chair while she combs my hair.

Grandma says if you don't know your past you ain't going nowhere!

My great grandma 101 yah that's her Black Woman Extraordinaire!

Maelyn Imani Carter is an 11th grade student a Richland Northeast High School. For Maelyn, writing poetry is a way to express herself, inspire, and share her view of the world. She has published Compilations by Maelyn, which features twelve of her most powerful pieces. Maelyn has received several awards for her community outreach initiatives. She most recently was named the Lovis 2024 award recipient, an award given to student who make a major difference in their community. She has also recently performed at the Soda City Poetry Festival and has recited her poems in many venues throughout the state.

~~~~~

She

by La’Cora Howell

Sometimes, I just wanna escape. I just wanna get away from all my problems. Maybe I should. Just go. Drop it all and leave this world. I don’t fit in here. Not this city, not this town. Not here. Maybe on a different planet, my mistakes didn’t form a target on my back, or maybe I wouldn’t be an outcast. Maybe, if I was somewhere else, people wouldn’t judge every expression my face makes without control. My size, my face, my hair, my clothes, my skin.

Why hate? Why bother the unspoken? AM I fresh, new bait luring through the deep? Am I unwrapped? Unused? I’m choking. Am I dying? With only a part of me slowly at part. She’s exquisite. She's fearless. She's kind and successful in many ways. She's noteworthy and genuine. She wants to grow. She's ready to lead the way. I am tired. I'm tired of the deluge and weight of everything and everyone controlling how I feel and what I want and do and say and like and my whole entire existence, and i just want to wrap it all up and shove it in a tight little box and throw it off a bridge into a never ending river of pessimistic things and energy and let it all go. Drown. Drowning under the weight of everything everyone predicts and foretells on my life. I can feel their words shove their way through my throat and up my nose and in my ears, fiercely flooding my body, soon taking me under and suddenly, I get pulled out.

Why? Who would save me? I was almost ready to endorse this death. Ready to give up, and let my problems take my life. There he tells me; this isn't worth it. He speaks life back into my soul. He lifts me back up out of this flood and puts me on my feet. Just by his presence I could tell who he was. He holds my hand as he walks me to my proclamation. He shows me what I am and what's worth living and who needs me, so they don't get dragged down, just as I did. He showed me my real sympathy. He is God, my father, and then “she” was brimful. She was a free spirit and was ready to take control. She was whole.

La’Cora Howell, a 9th Grader from Ridge View High School, was inspired to write this piece by some of the experiences and hardships she has overcome “unblemished.” La”Cora says, “I have a true connection and truth with this poem, and I hope people going through similar things as I once did, and honestly still am, take this poem as inspiration.”

Congratulations to Jasper Project Board President Wade Sellers for Being Honored as a 2025 Recipient of the SC Governor's Award for the Arts!

CONGRATULATIONS WADE!

The SC Arts Commission announced today that the Jasper Project’s own president of our board of directors, Wade Sellers, is the 2025 recipient of the South Carolina Governor’s Award for the Arts in the individual artist category!

Wade Sellers (Artist Category) is an independent filmmaker in Columbia who produced his first film within months after graduating from USC in media arts. As the South Carolina Arts Commission’s first media intern, Sellers assisted with the Southeastern Media Institute where he later became an instructor. He became an in-demand lighting director and gaffer on commercials and corporate projects. His short film Gordon’s Ride was featured at the Independent Feature Film Festival. Sellers co-founded the non-profit Hybrid Films in 2002 to function as fiscal agent for underserved filmmakers in the region. Hybrid Films’ largest accomplishment was the Beg and Grovel Film Festival, the first true independent film festival in Columbia. His first Southeastern Emmy Award nomination came with South Carolinians in World War 2, a project he was commissioned to direct for South Carolina ETV. Sellers formed his production company, Coal Powered Filmworks, collaborating with local filmmakers and promoting independent filmmaking in South Carolina. In 2013 he founded the 2nd Act Film Project, helping 84 films be created by S.C. filmmakers solely for screening at 2nd Act. He has supervised more than 25 interns from USC and Benedict College since 2008, lectured and taught in the USC media arts department and was named a distinguished alumnus from the USC School of Visual Arts and Design in 2020. He has served as the board president for The Jasper Project since 2019.

Other 2025 honorees include Dr. Gail V. Barnes, professor of music education and director of the USC String Project. The organization Engaging Creative Minds which was established in 2012 as a private-public partnership resulting from a community planning process led by Charleston County School District; the College of Charleston; the cities of Charleston, Mt. Pleasant and North Charleston; the Charleston Regional Alliance for the Arts; the Youth Endowment for the Arts; and Crystal-Barkley Corporation. The Koger Center for the Arts at the University of South Carolina (Government Category) which supports exceptional art by hosting and presenting transformational experiences that enlighten, educate, entertain and inspire.  The Sumter County Gallery of Art (Organization Category), a non-profit, community-based institution formed in 1969, with a mission to present and promote diverse visual arts and artists, to increase knowledge and to provide art education opportunities to Sumter, Clarendon and Lee counties—an extensively rural region of the state, isolated from the major art centers in the U.S. by geography and economics. The SCGA is currently under the executive direction of Karen Watson.

Congratulations to all the award winners!

Jasper is delighted to share this news and we look forward to celebrating with Wade throughout 2025!

Columbia Classical Ballet presents Life Chance 2025 under the direction of Joseph Phillips!

It’s the time of year true ballet lovers eagerly wait for — LifeChance, a one-of-a-kind multi-dancer, multi-company performance so unique that dancers from all over the world clammer to claim their spots on the stage — is coming up on Saturday March 15th at 7":30 at the Koger Center for the Arts!

Columbia Classical Ballet has produced the unique dance benefit gala, LifeChance, to raise awareness and funds for a wide variety of charitable causes for over two and a half decades. LifeChance was originally created by Columbia Classical Ballet Founder Radenko Pavlovich, with the very first LifeChance benefitting the war-torn children of Bosnia, during their troubling conflict over two and a half decades ago! The LifeChance gala brings together some of the best dancers in the world, to share their gifts through a one-night only live performance at the Koger Center for the performing Arts in Columbia, South Carolina.

This year, under the direction of Columbia native, Joseph Phillips, the performance promises to be better than ever. Among the dancers performing are from the American Ballet Theatre, Léa Fleytoux, Jarod Curley, Elisabeth Beyer, and Takumi Miyaki. From San Francisco Ballet, Sasha Mukhamedov and Ruben Citores, and from Ballet Eloelle Grandiva, one of the few all-male comedic dance companies in the world, Walter Battistini and Jonathan Mendez. Joining these stellar performers will be Sakura Oka, previously of Columbia City Ballet, as well as the current company of Columbia Classical Ballet. However, with so many world class international dancers eager to perform in this renown performance, there’s no telling who the audience might find on stage!

As part of Columbia Classical Ballet’s greater mission of outreach, community involvement, and exposure to the artform of ballet, LifeChance gala tickets, like the company’s regular season program tickets, are offered at a fraction of what they would otherwise cost.

Columbia Classical Ballet is excited to welcome Joseph Phillips as its new Artistic Director. Phillips, a celebrated international dancer and choreographer, returns to his hometown of Columbia, S.C., to lead the company into a new era of artistic excellence and dancer development. He assumes the position following the recent departure of former Artistic Director Brooklyn Mack, who replaced Pavlovich a few years before.​

Often referred to as “the Golden Boy of Ballet” due to his winning more Gold Medals in prestigious international competitions than any American male danseur, Phillips brings a wealth of experience and acclaim to the role. He has graced the stages of renowned companies such as San Francisco Ballet, Miami City Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, Ballet Manilla, and Mariinsky Ballet, Primorsky Stage, where he became one of the few American dancers to ever achieve the rank of principal dancer. He is also widely recognized as an esteemed teacher and choreographer, and currently serves as Artistic Director of El Camino Ballet.​

Deeply rooted in Columbia, where his journey in dance began, Phillips' first ballet school was Columbia Ballet School under the tutelage of Anita Ashley. His first male ballet teacher, Anthony Hampton, a South Carolina native, instilled in him the belief that ballet is for everyone, regardless of gender. His passion for ballet blossomed further when he performed in his first Nutcracker with the Columbia Music Festival Association. He continued to hone his craft, training with Stanislav Issaev at the esteemed South Carolina Governor's School for the Arts and Humanities in Greenville, South Carolina. Throughout his career, Phillips has maintained a strong connection to his home state, notably as a guest artist with South Carolina Ballet. Over the past two decades, he has also continued to work with the Columbia Music Festival Association, Columbia Ballet School, and Carolina Ballet.​

"I'm excited to bridge my work with El Camino Ballet and Columbia Classical Ballet, creating opportunities for both companies to expand their reach and share their artistry," saysPhillips. "I envision bringing the unique creations of Columbia Classical Ballet to the West Coast, showcasing the talent and creativity that thrives in my hometown."​

"I'm honored to return to my roots and lead Columbia Classical Ballet into its next chapter," says Phillips. "Columbia holds a special place in my heart, and I'm deeply committed to nurturing the talents of our dancers and creating a company that is a source of pride for Columbia and a vibrant contributor to the international dance community."​

In recognition of his contributions to the arts, Joseph Phillips has been awarded ‘THE KEY TO THE CITY,’ declaring July 17 as Joseph Phillips Day in Columbia, South Carolina.

News from WOW -- WOWStudioOne!

WOW Productions is back and they are now WOWStudioOne.

The wait is over! The story that captured your heart (Confessions of a Good Man) is back with more drama, revelations, and life-changing moments!

Confessions of a Good Man 3: The Ultimatum is debuting THIS SATURDAY and SUNDAY, and trust us, you don’t want to miss it! Come enjoy a brand new show at a brand new venue!

 What to Expect:

• Powerful performances that will make you laugh, cry, and cheer.

• A gripping storyline packed with twists and turns.

• A message that inspires and ignites the soul.

 Showtimes:

 Saturday: March 8th at 7:00 pm

 Sunday: March 9th at 3:00 pm

 Venue: Richland 2 Performing Arts Center | 763 Fashion Drive | Columbia, SC 29229 (A stunning, new, 1200-seat venue located in Sandhills next to R2i2)

Get your tickets NOW before they’re gone!

www.WOWStudioOne.com

Join us for the VIP EXPERIENCE including an exclusive black-carpet experience, a pre-show reception with exquisite hors d’oeuvres, a meet-and-greet with the cast, prime seating, and more.

Seats are limited, and the buzz is real! Gather your family and friends, and join us for a night of unforgettable storytelling.

Al Black's Poetry of the People featuring Xavier Khalil

This week's Poet of the People is Xavier Khalil. 

A few months ago, Xavier showed up at Cool Beans for Mind Gravy, he sat quietly in the back, eventually, he shared on open mic and kept coming back for more. He made friends with the regulars and felt confident enough to have his own 30 minute feature. 

Xavier is a kind and passionate poet with a voice that needs to be heard and I am blessed to have him in my creative life.

~Al Black

Xavier Khalil is a native of Atlanta, Georgia. He has been involved in the arts from the age of 8; participating in oratorical contests in elementary school. He moved to Beaufort, South Carolina to receive better education opportunities and lived with many family members while attending high school. Creative writing has been a lifelong hobby for Xavier, and more recently has found his love for poetry in 2023. The 22-year old's poetry reflects the essence of the Black queer experiences surrounding themes of spirituality, love, activism, and life's quarrels with grief and addiciton. These passions are further extended in Xavier's work through his podcast Choosing Joy and various social media platforms where he constantly advocates for humanity. He is an alumnus of the University South Caolina Aiken where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Communicaiton with a minor in Sociology. Currently Xavier is working on his Master in Higher Education and Student Affairs degree at the University of South Carolina in Columbia." 

“Meet Me”

Meet me at the coffee shop

Across the street from the Horseshoe –

Park by the meter

And, I’ll meet you at 2

This scene fits us

Is there an us?

Is it too early to discuss?

Maybe an idea we both want

I trust.

No matter I just want you –

I mean be with you –

I mean experience you –

Wait.

I just enjoy your company

Is all

How we engage

In conversation

And swoon as each other talks

Its cute

How we banter

Going on about psychology

(Stanza 5)

Sociology, biology

Theology, geography

Nationalities

Whew its…

And did you say

Music?

You be the R&B

To my neo-soul

You go On & On

Like Erykah’s songs

Making my soul glo

You’re “Golden” boy

Like Jill

Caught constantly

Giving me the feels

And chills and thrills

From Black history

To Mariah vs Whitney

Singin’ lil songs

Hearing you, “Say My Name”

Can we admit we’re

(Stanza 9)

The Children of Destiny?

After this please

Let there be more

Don’t let it end

Once you close your car door

After this

Come see me

Not in my visions or dreams

Comes see me, physically

Come see me, again, spiritually

Strip me emotionally

Nigga come see about me!

And allow me to be naked – fully

Sorry, if that’s too much

If, it was too strong

I’m sorry

I promise I wont do any wrong

Don’t run, please…

I’ll just be your friend

I know that love’s too scary

And we don’t want this to end

(Stanza 13)

So, I’ll just be your friend

May the love of our bond

Grow true

 And organic

But until then…

Meet me at the coffee shop

Across the street from the Horseshoe

Park by the meter on Monday

And I’ll meet you at 2. 

"Bridges and Railroads" 

Driving across the Broad River Bridge

It’s so different now

So the same

So opposite simultaneously

Chocolate neighborhoods

Replaced by golf courses

Shops for mommas and poppas

No replaced by corporations

Because they bought someone

Reparations

Thanks to high taxation

Chocolate faces

Moved to other chocolate places

Across the bridge – 2 or 3 –

On the other side of train tracks

2 or 3

Only for suited giants

To do it again

Killing off the wildlife

Destroying their land

Mossy, ancestral trees

Collapse

No care for the significance

Removing black bodies

Further from themselves

Because you pull them

By the root

It’s now deer season

But the bullets aren’t hitting

The right young Buck.

The shooter is jailed

While the true hunter

Mounts the bodies on the walls

Using the black bodies

And the brown/red skin

As rugs and mink coats

As you dwell in a home

Erected in a plot of land

That was once their own

Ignorance of the beautiful

Culture and bodies that inhabit

Are encouraged

Looked at as anomalies

Oddities of black magic

and spirituality

Not realizing

These beings are

Slowly being ostracized

Tantalized by outsiders

Who see their existence

As profit

And the lost minds

Haven’t a clue of what to do

About it.

Displaced

Shoved into obscurity

In massive fish tanks

Of barren yards

And unstable mobile homes

Chocolate people

Are losing their way.

In their home

Didn’t think I’d see the day. 

“Brown Boys Feel Fluorescent”

I make you feel like

A white boy?

Some safety

Visibility

Security

You adore from me?

I validate you

And give you innate freedom

In tandem

Denying myself that same

The right to exist

And be cherished

For the humanity

In your brown body

I make you feel

Like a white boy

Brown boy

I cherish

You make me feel like

Like a spirit

You make me feel like

Like a spirit

So big

Infinite

Free and confined

You give me space to be wild

You to have grand emotions

To obsess

To express

Display feelings

Be passionate

But, in making

Me feel my spirit

Makes me feel

Trapped in this human experience

I inherited

This one that you hardly

Acknowledged

This body you barely

Touch

This figure

That houses the very spirit

You freed

I make you feel

Like a white boy?

Not spoiled, but entitled –

Deserving.

Privileged.

You make feel like –

Like a spirit

Not holy; certainly not evil

Just too free

Too astral

Unfortunately

You only see that

The reinforcement of

Perfection

Not giving a human connection

I am guilty for this

I am merely a reflection

Of how you view

What is perfected

So in making you

Feel like a white boy

-protected-

You make me feel like Spirit

-easily neglected-

Picking and choosing

When to feel my presence

Yearning for me

But so displeased by

Your imperfection

My love you constantly

reject it

Oddly, I cannot be mad

At you

Because seeing my spirit

Means the “white boy”

In you wants to protect

Protect my pride

Protect my freedom

Protect my ambiguity

 My duality

Protect me from your truth

Protect my vibrant spirit

From being dimmed by you

Brown boy

Blue bird

Look at your reflection

In the river

Let the water cleanse your feet

It’s not whiteness you feel

It’s a freedom you’ve been denied

The freedom that heals

A freedom I had no clue

I could even give

As I look

My spirit

Shines outside this skin

It glows outwardly

And vibrates through me

Within

Standing parallel

Across the street

We a re on

You and me

Living separately

The Spirit you see

In me

Is shared

We share it with Thee

So, I thank you

Thank you for helping me to see

Brown boy I made feel safe

Thank you for recognizing

My grandness

The protection

The freedom

The privilege I afforded

It didn’t make you feel “white”

It finally made things

Feel to a degree

Alright

And you important

Hand to hearts

Eye to eye

Soul to soul

Brown boys make

each other feel free

protected and safe

Brown boys dance

In the dark

In the nighttime

Becoming jovial

-effervescent-

Transcends them

To fluorescence

Brown boys made

Each other feel like glowing

Bright, white

Hues

I never made you

Feel like a white boy

I simply made you feel your spirit, too.

“It’s Foggy Outside”

It’s foggy outside

In these times

There are blurred lines

Where cars and worlds

 Collide

It’s cold and wet

Out here

Be careful

Don’t slip

The weather makers are

Praying on your downfall

Our downfall

If you will

They want hit and runs

They want blame

They want pointing fingers

Stinging scars and burns

Cause by their flames

It’s foggy outside

Be careful walking

Through these low clouds

Be careful stalking

For your next meal

Stay low to ground

Look out for your neighbor

Don’t hurt each other on your prowl

In these times

Wanting to thrive

What a luxury to be

Alive

Right now we just survive

Until the sun dies

Behind the rain clouds

The sun still shines

But the time we once had

Is no longer on our side

Its of essence

And its precious

As the fog children

Walking in the midst

Of a global depression

It’s cold

It’s foggy

It’s rainy

It’s nasty

Barely sunny

It’s the time slipping

Down the road

And through our fingers

Please feel the hope

The faith

That still lingers

Don’t be fooled by

The occasional peak

Of sun during dark day time

Don’t let the warm day time

Dry up your inside

Don’t let confusion make

Your temperature rise

Be looking out the window

Because its foggy outside

Gerard Erley's Art at the Koger Center through March 9th

by Liz Stalker

There are still a little over two weeks left to check out Gerard Erley’s breathtaking show, “Sights Unseen,” at the Koger Center’s Gallery! This exhibition, which ends on Sunday, March 9th, features Erley’s stunning landscapes in oil paint, which employ inventive use of light and bold color so effectively that to witness them is a nearly spiritual experience. Jasper was lucky enough to interview Erley, whose responses to our questions were so insightful that they demanded to be presented as written.

Jasper: When and how did you get started as an artist?

Erley: I was drawing (scribbling?) before I could walk. Soon I was imitating the forms my eyes took in - trees, buildings, people. I feel (from where I stand today) that I had a compulsion to explore the world around me through the process of drawing. I came to know the physical nature of things through this process, and was soon aware of the emotional impact these images could have when translated into an artistic form. My precocious skills were noted and rewarded in school from kindergarten on. I believe my path as an artist was set at that point.

Jasper: What draws you to oil painting as a medium?

Erley: The majority of art images I saw reproduced as a kid were oil paintings. The medium survived the test of time for good reason. The quality and variety of the paintings attest to that. The quality was expressed in the exquisite craft and power of the artworks which amazed and delighted me. This instilled in me a strong reverence for art history, and I delved into the books I found in the library like a pig rooting for truffles.

Regarding the variety of the medium, oil paint can be slathered on the canvas in emotional outbursts or built up in painstaking layers in a search to express the inexpressible. It seemed every physical texture could be mimicked. At the same time oil painting could hint at something far beyond the perceivable.

Jasper: The use of light in your work has a huge impact on the tone--is there anything in particular you consider when deciding the role that light will play in your pieces?

Erley: I once was concerned mainly with the forms that light revealed, how light could sculpt objects, pulling them out of space. I have since come to know light itself as my true subject. I am particularly intrigued by light's duality - how it can both reveal and obscure form. It washes over all and becomes the main actor on the stage of my canvas. I am especially drawn to light that is transitional and fleeting - the pulsing warmth of sunset, the mysterious coolness of moonlight, the shafting radiance through a clouded sky. I employ these various types of light to express my changing emotions. Nature offers a vocabulary of visual equivalents which I use to express these sentiments.

Jasper: Your website states that you prefer to paint "from memory and intuition" as opposed to using photo reference. Why do you feel this way? And how do you think this might impact the concept of "realism," thinking of "realism" as both an art style and a reflection of reality?

Erley: A lot of artists are enslaved by photo images. They think what is shown is reality. But this so-called reality is predigested. The camera has determined the composition and the range of values and color. Things are distorted through the lens.

One antidote is the option of painting from life, experiencing nature firsthand in all its glorious variety. This is a wonderful way to learn the vocabulary of art without  imposing filters. Having followed this approach for a number of years, I found myself disillusioned with the process. Although I could produce a reasonable imitation of nature, there was a certain depth I felt lacking. One can get lost in all the details of the natural world and be unable to see the forest for the trees, so to speak. To quote Pierre Bonnard, “It’s not a matter of painting life, it’s a matter of giving life to painting.”

I felt the need to engage another part of myself in the process of art making. Therefore, I chose to work largely intuitively in the studio. And while I incorporate memory, it is never a one-to-one relationship ("I saw that, so I’ll paint that”). It is a loose recollection of various visual impressions. In the end, I believe the inner, emotional life has as much, if not more, validity than the purely perceptual. For me, that is where true reality resides.

Jasper: You mention poetry several times in your artist statement--if you had to pair a piece from this exhibition with a poet, who might you choose?

Erley: I am referring to a visual poetry rather than a literary one. But seeking an equivalent in the realm of words, perhaps Ralph Waldo Emerson fits the bill. He says so much with so little. For him, the divine can be found in the everyday. My hope is that my paintings too point to something greater than the merely observable, taking you to a place more felt than seen.

Be sure to stop by the Koger Center by March 9th to see Erley’s work for yourself! You certainly won’t regret it.

REVIEW: Ain't Misbehavin' at Trustus Theatre

by Cindi Boiter

When the world is angry and disappointing, our nerves are frayed and our hearts are bruised, we turn to the arts to soothe and remind us of the things that matter most. High among those things we hold dear is the ability to lose oneself in joy. Luckily for Columbia theatre audiences, we have the opportunity to come together to laugh, pat our feet to the rhythm of the band, and experience the shared heart-flight of song when a vocalist takes us with them up and down the scales of music and emotion. We can do this by attending one of the performances of Ain’t Misbehavin’: The Fats Waller Musical Show which takes the stage at Trustus Theatre through March 22nd.

Directed by Terrance Henderson, this production of Ain’t Misbehavin’ features musical theatre veterans Katrina Garvin and Samuel McWhite, arguably two of the most talented and entertaining vocalists in the SC Midlands. Audiences have come to expect mighty performances and a heightened level of professionalism from both of these performing artists and, on the opening night of this run, we got what we came for.  John Ballard and Ara-Viktoria McKinney-Bookman both brought their A-games to opening night with vocals that ranged from soothing to soaring.

But the stand-out for this reviewer, and several other folks I spoke with in the audience, was Mel Driggers in the role originated by Charlaine Woodard. Having seen Driggers in several previous productions, Dandelion, Sweeny Todd, The Rocky Horror Show, and more, we knew that they brought their own uniquely cultivated style to a project, but opening night was the first time this reviewer has witnessed the level of comic acumen Driggers is capable of. As the Gilligan/Scooby Doo of the quintet, Driggers exhibited the kind of comfort with a comedic role that a lot of actors at the local level can’t quite pull off. That’s why, having clowned her way through an early song in the performance with missed notes and big-fun silliness, Driggers drew big-fun applause when they effortlessly hit the right notes, and hit them well, later in the performance.

Rather than being your typical musical theatre performance that adheres to a narrative punctuated by song, Ain’t Misbehavin’ is a musical revue written by Murray Horwitz and Richard Maltby, Jr, with arrangements by Luther Henderson. It opened at the Manhattan Theatre Club in 1978 with a stellar cast that included Nell Carter, Irene Cara, Andre DeShields, Armelia McQueen, and Ken Page. Playing these parts in the Trustus production are Garvin, Driggers, McWhite, McKinney-Bookman, and Ballard, respectively. Charlayne Woodard took over Cara’s part (Driggers) when the show moved to Broadway in 1982. While the playbill for the Trustus performance unfortunately does not provide a list of musical numbers and their performers, expect to hear all your Fats Waller favorites including, “I’m Going to Sit Right Down and Write Myself a Letter,” “Your Feet’ Too Big,” and “The Joint is Jumping,” among others. But don’t take your eyes off the actors who seem to be chilling at the set’s bar or comfy couch pit on the sides of the stage. Many times that is where the funny lives and, while one song is being sung, the cast is setting up the next song on the docket with clever direction and pantomime.

For this production director Henderson opted to make the six-member band a part of the show with the musicians positioned center back of the stage. Music director and pianist is Ayush Joshi, James Wolfe plays trombone, Nigel Ouzts is on trumpet, Ben Eidson on Woodwinds, Kris Phelps on drums, and Andres McNeil plays upright bass. Their presence on the stage exponentially adds to the performance and the little bit of interaction between band members and vocalists that we saw on opening night makes me hope that, with successive performances, the musicians will relax and become even more involved with the cast–because it really works when they are! Choral expert and recent Frank-N-Furter star in the Rocky Horror Show, also at Trustus, Walter Graham served as off-stage music director.

Other behind-the-scenes teammates include Trinessa Dubas as stage manager, scenic designer Corey Langley, whose life-sized characters from previous shows placed in the background of the set provided for some interesting detail, Garreth Hayward on lights with Matt Pound and Walter Kervin on sound, G. Scott Wild on props, and the multi-talented Mel Driggers on costumes. From the audience’s perspective, all these parts of the puzzle came together without a hitch.

There is little to critique about this show. One small detail that I’m sure will improve throughout the run is that, when McKinney-Bookman laughs or smiles, her face lights up and she pulls the audience helplessly into her part of the performance. It would be great to see even more consistent engagement with the audience and fellow cast members from this truly excellent vocalist.

There were too many stand-out songs to name them all, but I’ll mention that Ballard’s rendition of “The Viper’s Drag,” with Ballard fully engaging with the double entendre of the song, was a favorite of this reviewer and many other audience members—especially on a cold Friday night in 2025 when lighting “that tea” and letting “it be” sounds like a pretty good idea.

Certainly, the most moving song of the night had all cast members seated center stage to sing the Waller classic, “Black and Blue,” reminding us for a moment that the world is wrong in so many ways, but sometimes, for a few moments at least, the best thing to do is to sing about it. This performance of the well-known song gave this reviewer chills it was so expertly performed.

How will it end? ain't got a friend
My only sin is my skin
What did I do to be so black and blue?

Jasper recommends that you turn off the news, silence your phones, and grab someone you love to take them out for a night of fun and a fine performance from the cast and crew of Ain’t Misbehavin.’ We need this kind of joy now. It reminds us of what we’re here for, what we have to preserve, and that if artists like Fats Waller could see the sun shine through the cloudy culture that he had to deal with to have his music heard, we should celebrate the example he set by laughing, patting our toes to the rhythm of the band, and rejoicing in the songs he left us.

The Jasper Project Welcomes Toni Elkins to The Nook Gallery at Koger Center for the Arts this Third Thursday

The Jasper Project is excited to welcome Toni Elkins to our Nook Gallery at the Koger Center of the Arts this week. The exhibition will run from this Thursday, February 20th until the week of the third Thursday in March when the work of our featured artist for March, Thomas Washington, will be installed.

Toni M. Elkins is a Columbia-based artist who was educated at Boston University and the University of Georgia. She is a member of the Trenholm Artist Guild and the 2023 recipient of the Missouri Watercolor International: J. Richeson Award and a “Top 50 Winner of the artsfortrumpcoalition.com,” the artist says. In 2014 she won the Clark Ellefson Merit Award and in 2013 the Susie and Caroll Heyward Purchase Award, both from the SC State Fair, among other accolades throughout her life.

Elkins says, “My work has taken on a whole new meaning since the death of my husband. I find I am more introspective and more interested in my environment. I actually LOOK instead of SEE. I examine our world in a different way, and I hope to make positive changes in this world through my art.”

Elkins is sponsoring her own personal opening reception for this exhibition at the Nook Gallery at the Koger Center for the Arts on Thursday, February 20th from 5:30 – 7 pm. She is planning to bring her own bartender and beverages for this event. The Jasper Project extends it’s gratitude to the staff of Koger Center for the Arts and Jasper board secretary and Jasper Magazine visual arts editor, Emily Moffitt, for working with the artist on this unique situation.

Artist Profile: Sharon Funderburk - Jasper's February First Thursday Artist at Sound Bites Eatery

Sharon Funderburk, Jasper’s featured First Thursday artist in Sound Bites Eatery, spent the first part of her life in Pennsylvania where she was channeled into the arts by her teacher, her grandmother, and her father. They were all her inspirations.

Funderburk  went to school to be a commercial artist in the 1970s “before computers took over. I did mapping, some drafting, and advertising” she says. “I’m currently a Bob Ross instructor but I’ve also taught jewelry, and mosaic classes.” Now she teaches classes at the Camden Shoppes, and Crooked Creek Park in Chapin.

“I consider myself as a mixed media artist,” she says. “I like to be colorful and show multi layers, I like reflections and glass or water. When I start a piece, I like it to take me down the rabbit hole. Most of my pieces are done start to finish In one sitting. Like a journey.”

Funderburk has won awards with the state fair and SAMA mosaic society. She has participated in local arts initiatives like the Door Project, and the Trout Project with the city of Columbia, as well as having painted several wall murals in Columbia.

Sharon Funderburk - artist

Funderburk is currently a member of the Cayce Artist Guild, TAG, South Carolina Artists, and the Art Shoppes of Camden, and she just signed on to be a studio artist with Ron Hagel’s Gemini Arts in Columbia.

Funderburk’s art will be up through February. Visit Sound Bites Eatery at 1425 Sumter Street and scan the QR code of the painting you want to take home with you to make Sharon Funderburk’s art a part of your own personal collection.

Chapin Theatre Company’s Stilt Girl Representing SC at Southeast Theatre Convention Competition

Chapin Theatre Company recently participated in the South Carolina Theatre Association (SCTA) Community Theatre Competition with a production of Act I of Stilt Girl, an original comedy written by Lou Clyde, CTC’s Playwright in Residence. The result? Stilt Girl was selected to represent South Carolina in the Southeast Theatre Convention (SETC) in Baltimore in March 2025!

The SCTC convention is the nation's most comprehensive theatre where theatre practitioners unite to spark creativity and collaboration. Stilt Girl will be competing with eight other community theatre productions from across the Southeast United States.

Jamie Carr Harrington will be directing Stilt Girl, and the cast includes Debra Kiser, Jane Peterson, Zanna Mills, Josh Kern, and Jacob Cordes.

There will be a send-off dress rehearsal fund raising event on March 19 at 7:30 PM at Chapin Theatre Company. Tickets for the event are $20, and include a beverage (soda, wine, or coffee) and can be purchased at Stilt Girl goes to Baltimore Tickets | Chapin Theatre Company. Limited tickets will be available at the door.

Can’t make in to the March 19th event but want to support Chapin Theatre Company as they travel to Baltimore? Donate here!

REVIEW: Steel Magnolias Shines with Heart and Humor at Town Theatre By Jane Peterson

Steel Magnolias, written by Robert Harling, running Thursday through Sunday, February 13-16, at Town Theatre, is not to be missed. While matinee tickets may be sold out, seats are still available for evening performances, so I highly recommend reserving your tickets now. And as a bonus, this show marks the debut of the theater's new, incredibly comfortable seating, which is sure to enhance your experience.

Based on a true story, playwright Harling based the play on his sister. He grew up in Natchitoches and based the characters on some of his mother's friends. He believed that the women in his community were witty and clever, and that the juxtaposition of strength and fragility was typical of Southern women.

A big shout-out to director Allison McNeeley for her expertly crafted direction of this play, bringing a smooth and authentic portrayal of the story to the stage. The staging worked well keeping the characters alive within the set at all times. This is a cast of real people, and you’ll find yourself loving every one of them.

The play centers around a group of six women who gather at Truvy’s Beauty Salon in a small-town in Louisiana to prepare for the wedding of Shelby Eatenton (Zanna Mills) and her beau, Jackson Latcherie. M’Lynn Eatenton (Debra Kiser), Shelby’s mother, is at the heart of the story. Joining them are Truvy (Syhaya Aviel), who runs the salon, a newly hired assistant named Anelle (Emily Clelland), and longtime friends Clairee Belcher (Gayle Stewart) and Ouiser Boudreaux (Kathy Hartzog). These women share a deep bond of friendship, supporting each other through thick and thin. You will laugh and cry with them as their stories unfold.

The chemistry between the cast members is real. Emily Clelland, as the naive and innocent Annelle, brings humor and charm with her well-timed comedic moments and expressive and sincere performance. Syhaya Aviel shines as Truvy, infusing the character with warmth and authenticity, making her incredibly relatable and endearing. Gayle Stewart nails her portrayal of Clairee, delivering her lines with perfect timing, and Kathy Hartzog’s hilarious Ouiser is a character we all know and love.

But the standout performances for me were Debra Kiser as M’Lynn and Zanna Mills as Shelby. Their on-stage relationship is full of heart—both tender and tense, with every moment feeling true to life. Zanna’s portrayal of Shelby radiates a love for life, while her performance through Shelby’s health decline is heartbreakingly real. Watching Zanna grow as an actress over the past few years has been a pleasure—she’s one to watch. And Debra Kiser? Prepare yourself for an emotional rollercoaster. Her performance is nothing short of breathtaking, especially in the final moments of the play. Trust me, bring tissues—Kiser’s performance will leave you in tears.

The creative team also deserves a round of applause. The set design perfectly captures the essence of a beauty salon, while the period-appropriate props and costumes further immerse the audience in the world of the play.

This production is a beautiful blend of humor, heart, and poignant moments, making for a wonderfully entertaining evening at Town Theatre. Don’t miss it!

Tickets are available by calling Town Theatre at 803-799-2510, Tuesday to Friday, 12 noon to 5 pm, or online at towntheatre.com/tickets/.

Jasper's Poetry of the People with Al Black featuring Susan Madison

This week's Poet of the People is Susan Madison. I first met Susan at an early event hosted by the Pat Conroy Literary Center in Beaufort, SC. We periodically re-connect over poetry and literary projects. She is a gifted poet and writer and is a well-respected force in the South Carolina poetry and literary community. 

~Al Black

Susan Madison is a poet, essayist, and short story writer who merges visual artistry with literature. Her work explores culture, history, and consciousness. The author of two chapbooks, if i sing the blues and Gullah Paths, Madison has been published in local and national publications, including Chicken Soup for the Soul.and Ukweli. A native of Chicago, Madison studied fiction and poetry at Columbia College of Liberal Arts in Chicago. She lives on St. Helena Island, South Carolina.

True Red

Don’t try to paint me off-red,

a muted,

distilled version,

of primary red.

I am not doped-up with the flighty spirit of yellow,

made into an orange-

red.

Don’t water me down and tint me with black,

and make me into a funeral-drapery sad,

maroon red.

And please don’t whitewash me and make me,

a soft namby-pamby,

unassuming pink,

nonthreatening,

unrecognizable-

red.

Paint me a straight-no-chaser,

warning label red,

a clueless of how to handle type of red,

a bleeding out, 

unassailable,

no excuse,

unapologetic-

red.

Paint me red- red,

draped on a jet-jet black woman,

type of red-

strutting down a church aisle

of an all white,

pure white congregation-

late

red,

that stand-alone,

hush-your- mouth

sit-down-and-catch-your-breath

red.

Home

All she wanted were fingernails the color of orange rinds,

a one room cottage that witnessed the sea,

with a path paved with river stones,

a weathered-beaten door,

behind which sat a simple bed,

 curtains the flapped in the wind

and a desk,

haunted by an unknown poet

she would paint the shutters often to amuse herself,

when breezes kicked up their heels, 

and families of stars littered the night sky,

she’d sit outside and write letters to dead lovers,

or conjure up friends and cousins,

she could have loved more carefully,

and brush their cheeks with her finger tips. 

if sadness burglarized her,

she’d sip bourbon from a bottle,

and chew ice to chase the sting, 

or maybe she’d entered the water as she came into the world,

or pause and indulge in its pain

when joy gave her parties,

she’d danced without trying to keep  beat, 

and answer it with a holy ghost prance

But mostly, 

she’d examine her shiny orange nails,

turn her hands,

until the light bounced off the shine,

and listen to the echo of the sea

rise and fall within her womb. 

Now

My poetry is ugly now-

It sifts through garbage 

for proverbs now,

it's the merciless place between George Floyd's neck,

and the cop's knee who knelt there now.

Irreverent of religion now-

It goes to the mountainside and argues with Jesus now,

Takes up arms with the devil now,

Sits in alleys with drunkard whores now.

It's no longer diplomatic with liars now, 

It's the click- click- 

fuck-you walk, 

of high heels on pavements now, 

it’s the jazzed-up junky's-

don't give a shit twang now.

It stopped socializing with the righteous now,

Doesn't look away from  adult crack-babies now,

Sleeps under tarps with the homeless now,

Interviews dying dope dealers now

My poetry is ugly now-

It stopped beautifying the womb of tulips now,

Ceased feeding the chickadees and listening to cardinals calls now,

It makes music from the wails of children now,

It's the moaning in old gospels now-

the vacant look in the eyes of hopeless now

It's the song of ugly now.

The Art of Fashion -- SC Designer Diko Pekdemir-Lewis of Anton & Maxine Unveils Spring/Summer '25 collection

For most of us, an elegant fashion show with too-fab creations draped on too-beautiful bodies is something we only get to see on screen. But  Diko Pekdemir-Lewis, of SC’s own artisanal fashion brand, Anton & Maxine, is bringing us the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the art of design when she presents an in-house fashion show, En-Cloth-Sure, on Saturday, March 1 from 6 to 8 PM at 713 Saluda Ave, Columbia, SC to unveil her Spring/Summer '25 collection.

"After eight years of participating in various fashion shows and twice at New York Fashion Week, this in-house fashion show is my way of giving back to my loyal local customers and friends," says Diko Pekdemir-Lewis, designer and owner of Anton & Maxine. 

"The fashion show will take place right where all of my designs are created, reminiscent of the intimate gatherings once hosted by Chanel and Dior. Guests will enjoy wine and light hors d'oeuvres, followed by a captivating fashion show with close-up views of the models wearing the collection. Attendees can even try on garments and place custom orders directly from the studio, which is an exclusive experience that is becoming rare in today’s fast-paced fashion world."

The show’s title, "En- cloth-sure," is a play on the word "enclosure," inspired by the idea of enclosing fashion in a smaller circle. The collection features Asian-inspired designs, particularly influenced by Pekdemir-Lewis’s favorite designer, Yohji Yamamoto. Expect to see lots of black linen with oversized, loose fits that are perfect for warmer weather, as well as the new coat style.

SC Designer Diko Pekdemir-Lewis

Diko Pekdemir-Lewis is the creative force behind Anton & Maxine, a luxury fashion brand rooted in handmade craftsmanship and elegance. Pekdemir-Lewis’s formal training includes a three-year apprenticeship in bespoke tailoring and dressmaking, followed by a Bachelor's degree in Fashion Arts from Modeschule Schloss Eller in Düsseldorf, Germany. In 2014, Pekdemir-Lewis launched Anton & Maxine, named after her two daughters, Antoinette and Maxine. Now based in Columbia, Anton & Maxine continues to deliver true luxury and quality garments that blend timeless craftsmanship with modern design.

Columbia Children's Theatre's Presents Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Rock Experience!

Experience the whimsical fun and heartfelt lessons of Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Rock Experience with Columbia Children’s Theatre (CCT), South Carolina’s premier theatre for young audiences and families!

Based on the popular children’s book by Mo Willems, this rockin’ musical follows Wilbur, a naked mole rat who dares to be different by wearing clothes. With catchy songs, vibrant sets, and a message that encourages kids to embrace their unique selves, Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed is perfect for audiences of all ages.

What makes Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Rock Experience truly exceptional is its cast of professional performers, many of whom are seasoned veterans of Columbia Children’s Theatre.

With decades of combined experience, the cast includes familiar faces like Sadie Carr, who has enchanted audiences in roles ranging from Toad in A Year with Frog & Toad to the whimsical Alison in Pinkalicious. Joining her is Lee O. Smith, a pillar of CCT since its inception, whose memorable portrayals—like Scrooge in A Christmas Carol—have delighted audiences season after season. Together, they set the tone for a production filled with expertise and love for the craft.

Adding fresh energy to the stage are emerging talents like Samson Seals, balancing a budding nursing career with standout performances as Jack in The Stinky Cheese Man, and Anna Swearingen, a University of South Carolina senior whose vibrant portrayal of Mrs. Cratchit in A Christmas Carol captivated audiences. Alongside them, Toby O’Connor and Lilly Thompson bring depth and versatility, having honed their skills in roles across Columbia's theatre scene.

One thing is for sure: this professionally staged production is designed to engage young patrons and families while delivering the high-quality theatrical experience that CCT’s Mainstage performances are known for.

Showtimes & Location:

Performances will be held at Richland Library Sandhills Auditorium (763 Fashion Dr, Columbia, SC 29223) on the following dates:

• Saturday, February 15, 2025, at 2:00 PM

• Sunday, February 16, 2025, at 3:00 PM

Ticket Information:

Join us for an unforgettable weekend of theatre as CCT’s professional actors bring the

magic of this production to life! Tickets are $15 general admission available at

www.columbiachildrenstheatre.com

Jasper Welcomes Lindsay Radford Wiggins Back to Our Always-Open Tiny Gallery

Jasper is delighted to welcome one of our favorite local artists, Lindsay Radford Wiggins, back to our always open virtual gallery space, Tiny Gallery. Lindsay’s Magic Poodle Land art is always a welcome addition to anyone’s home gallery with its whimsical depictions of all things beautiful and cosmic. And this exhibition offers collectors of all economic situations the opportunity to build their gallery with hometown art at price points that range from 60 to 150 dollars with 25 pieces of all sizes to choose from!

Lindsay Radford Wiggins graduated from Columbia College with a Studio Art Degree in 2011. Originally from Montgomery, Alabama, she now considers Columbia home after living here 23 years. She works full-time in histology and paints as much as she can when she is not working in the lab. She is a multi-media artist and photographer. Watercolor on paper has been her most recent obsession. Wiggins’ most recent body of work is inspired by mediation, walks in nature, and her beloved poodle, Ziggy. Her paintings embody a spiritual authenticity with her own signature whimsical flair. Influenced by German expressionism and women surrealists, her work speaks to the artist’s personal experiences, connections, and emotions, making each piece a diary-like entry of celestial swirls. The playful imagery and repetition of symbols invites the viewer to call upon their own life experience and create their own personal dialog. Wiggins’ work has been exhibited at numerous SC venues, including 701 Whaley, Koger Center of the Arts, and Trustus Theater. Her paintings are represented in many private collections, and she was featured on the cover of Jasper Magazine’s spring 2022 issue and on the cover of Kristine Hartvigsen’s book The Soulmate Poems. 

Roni Henderson in Conversation with Michaela Pilar Brown at Sumter County Gallery of Art This Saturday!

It’s just a short distance to drive out to Sumter County Gallery of Art this Saturday to enjoy two of Columbia’s — actually South Carolina’s — most exciting artists in conversation.

From 1 - 2:30 pm SCGA will present Roni Henderson in conversation with Michaela Pilar Brown. The convo will take place amid the art of SCGA’s current exhibition, Out of this World by Bob Warner and Solace by Roni Henderson.

The SCGA website shares that, “Roni Nicole Henderson is a Columbia, SC-based writer, filmmaker, and photographer. She earned her MFA in Film and Television at Savannah College of Art and Design. Her work has been exhibited in galleries, museums, and film festivals across the country and internationally including Spelman Museum, Atlanta, GA, Leonard Pearlstein Gallery, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, Museum of Contemporary Art, Atlanta, GA, Blackstar Film Festival, Philadelphia, PA, New Orleans Film Festival, and the Columbia Museum of Art. Roni’s photography was published in the 2018 release, MFON: Women Photographers of the African Diaspora and in 2017, she self-published a memoir entitled Of Grace and Moons: The Making of Grace. Roni was recently awarded a Columbia Mellon Monuments Fellowship by Wideman-Davis Dance and is currently working to accomplish two creative milestones, publishing her first book of poetry with photographs as well as producing her first feature film, Grace. Roni is represented by Mike Brown Contemporary Gallery, Columbia, SC.

Michaela Pilar Brown is an image and object maker. She studied sculpture and art history at Howard University, though she has always been a maker of things. Born in Bangor, Maine and raised in Denver, Colorado, she cut her teeth in the halls of a museum where her mother worked as a security guard, and has been immersed in the culture of objects, their making and interpretation ever since.” She is “an independent curator and multidisciplinary artist using photography, installation, collage, painting and performance.  Brown is the 2018 grand prize winner of Artfields juried art competition.  She is a 2018 inaugural resident artist of the Volcanic Residency, Whakatane Museum, Whakatane, New Zealand. She was one of the six American artists selected to participate as a Resident Artist for OPEN IMMERSION: A VR CREATIVE DOC LAB produced by the CFC Media Lab, The National Film Board of Canada (NFB) and JustFilms | Ford Foundation in Toronto, Canada, an Inaugural Resident Artist at the 2016 Sedona Summer Colony and a 2016 Artist in Residence, Kunstlerwerkgemeinschaft Kaiserslautern, Germany and has held residencies at the Vermont Studio Center and the McColl Center for Art and Innovation.”

Collage artist Bob Warner, whose work is also on exhibit, “is a native Chicagoan, born in 1947. … Warner attended Lincoln University in Pennsylvania as an undergraduate student. He studied history at the University of Chicago. Mentored by the acclaimed historian, John Hope Franklin. Warner’s love for History and Jazz is what inspires him. … Warner’s exhibition Out of This World (the title of one of his favorite John Coltrane song) reflects his love of Jazz, Black Studies, Black culture, life experiences, and family. All inform his art. He creates pieces that extol a time, the players, and events of his people. His fascination with cardboard, cloth, textured materials, and a myriad of other tossed away items have redefined his own visual and conceptual vocabulary. His work has been exhibited in Chicago, IL, Los Angeles, CA and Sumter, SC.

The event is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served.

SCGA is located at 200 Hasel Street in Sumter.

For more information please contact SCGA executive director, Karen Watson.

Jasper's Poem for the Day - Reading Anne Frank by Al Black

Reading Anne Frank

I wonder

what became of the family

who hid Ann Frank in an upstairs room

I wonder

if one of my siblings or a childhood friend

would have turned her family in

and gloated as they were hauled away

I wonder

if I would have the strength of character to say,

"No More"