Jamecia Bennett, a 3x Grammy Award-winning artist and NAACP award winner, has made her mark in the music industry, hitting the Billboard charts as a soloist, as well as longside The Sounds of Blackness. Her accolades extend beyond her chart-topping success; Jamecia is also a rising star on the acting scene, captivating audiences with her performances in lead roles on legendary stages both in the Twin Cities and around the world. As the CEO of Minnesota Movement Ent., Jamecia leads an artist development company that provides comprehensive services, including media, vocal coaching, management consultation, styling, and more. Her passion for nurturing talent and fostering artistic growth shines through in her dedication to helping artists reach their full potential.

With an illustrious career that spans decades, Jamecia's artistic journey has been defined by versatility and excellence. From sharing the stage with iconic names like Sting, Janet Jackson, and Stevie Wonder to starring in Broadway productions and directing acclaimed theater performances, Jamecia's talent knows no bounds. Her commitment to empowering emerging artists and sharing her wealth of experience underscores her role as a mentor and leader in the industry. Through Minnesota Movement Ent., Jamecia continues to shape the next generation of artists while leaving an indelible mark on the world of music and theater.

Len JONES of Minneapolis got his first singing experience in a gospel group called Eastside, with a CD that was released in 2001 called "Against All Odds". Jones is also a songwriter/musician and an inspired music producer of Gospel/Jazz and R & B music . In 2012 Jones formed a duo group with Roshewn Harrington (of MFELLAZ) called 2 for Da Show and had the opportunity to open up for Da Brat in downtown Minneapolis. In the summer of May 2015 Jones joined the 3-time Grammy Award Winning Sounds of Blackness and had the opportunity to perform in Osaka and Tokyo, Japan at Billboard Live, Ryder Cup 2016, The BET Super Bowl Gospel Celebration in 2018 and shared the stage with artists such as Shelia E., Erica Campbell of Mary Mary, Big Jim Wright, Ann Nesby, Snoop Dogg, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis just to name a few. Len also sings with an R &B group called MFELLAZ out of Minneapolis founded and managed by Kirk Johnson of KAJ Production...former drummer of the late great Prince Roger Nelson.

Gary D. Hines, Music Director and Producer of the 3-time, Grammy Award-Winning Sounds of Blackness. Pop, Hip-Hop, Rhythm & Blues, Jazz, Latin, Rock, Blues, Reggae, Ragtime, Classical and Gospel.

Gary has recorded, performed, toured, written for and appeared with: Quincy Jones, Jimmy “Jam” Harris & Terry Lewis, Prince, Usher, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Luther Vandross, Aretha Franklin, Elton John, Johnny Gill, Patti LaBelle, Sting, Dolly Parton, Danny Glover and Jordin Sparks to name just a few. Gary has performed in every major city in the U.S. and, abroad in Africa, England, Holland, Switzerland, France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Japan, Brazil, Mexico, Canada, Bermuda, Jamaica, Martinique and The Bahamas - with Sounds of Blackness.

Gary has also conducted countless Music Workshops, Seminars, Lecture-Demonstrations and Master Classes across the United States and internationally about the history, impact and evolution of African-American music and culture. Gary has been the recipient of such honors as a Grammy, International Time For Peace Award, Minnesota Music Academy Awards, Minnesota Music Hall of Fame Award, Distinguished Citizen Award, Golden Scroll For The Promise of Greatness Award and, Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from his Alma Mater Macalester College, St. Paul. Sounds of Blackness latest CD, "THE SOUNDS OF BLACKNESS" won a 2012 NAACP Image Award

Trenon Graham is a Grammy Award-winning drummer for The Sounds of Blackness, renowned for his exceptional talent and dedication to music. With a passion for teaching, Trenon shares his expertise in drumming and vocals, inspiring students through his work at Music In The Mix Production. His diverse skills also extend to being a minister, where he preaches and teaches the Gospel, demonstrating his commitment to spiritual growth and community leadership.

Based in Brooklyn Park, MN, Trenon serves as a musician, ventriloquist, and para-professional within the Anoka-Hennepin School District 11. His multifaceted role includes working with special needs children and the general student population, recording music, providing instrumental music lessons, and songwriting. Known for his integrity and collaborative spirit, Trenon is a true team player and leader, constantly learning and growing alongside those he mentors. His comedic performances with Trenon & Friends further showcase his versatility and dedication to uplifting others through both music and laughter.

ANDREW IS AN AMERICAN THEATER AND FILM DIRECTOR | STORYTELLER. Andrew is passionate about delivering ambitious, visually dynamic and inclusive storytelling that often involves puppets, cats, lasers, or electric guitars. His work has spanned an array of professional collaborations and projects — from conceiving and developing musical theatre, to award-winning film, and immersive experience.

His work has taken him around the world from helming productions in US, Asia, Europe to Circus in China. He has been a creative artist for Broadway Asia, Music Theatre International, Proscenium, Ordway Center and Artistic Director Norwegian Cruise Line, where he leveraged artistic partnerships from THE SECOND CITY to TWYLA THARP.

A graduate of NYU/Tisch School of the Arts Drama, Andrew performed internationally from Radio City Music Hall to Tokyo. You may have seen his feet tap dancing on Broadway or his dead body on all three Law & Order series (for which his family has yet to watch). His original puppet film won Los Angeles Film Award for Best Animation. Andrew’s feature romcom, A CONFLICT OF LOVE INTEREST arrives 2024.

Tomekia Gibbs is a dedicated mother of three—two boys and one girl—residing in Minneapolis. With a solid career in the medical field and expertise as an esthetician, she combines professional skill with a nurturing touch. As a counselor for Bennett's Bootcamp, a vital part of the Minnesota Movement, Tomekia leverages her deep love for children and commitment to the Twin Cities community. An upstanding member of her community, Tomekia is known for her compassionate nature and dedication to uplifting those around her.

Jazzy is a dynamic leader and advocate for social justice within the Twin Cities. She is a graduate of the St. Paul Conservatory for Performing Artists (SPCPA), where she honed her talents in dance and art. Currently, she is one of the managers of the restaurant franchise Pimento Jamaican Kitchen, with rotating locations on Nicollet, St. Paul, and Bde Maka Ska.

Jazzy is also a dedicated student at Minneapolis Community and Technical College (MCTC), where she studies videography and photography, further expanding her creative and technical expertise. In her role with Minnesota Movement, she serves as the team lead for merchandising and operations, contributing significantly to the organization’s success. Through her various endeavors, Jazzy continues to inspire and support the community, championing social justice and empowering the next generation of artists and leaders.

Bridget is a Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, dancer, actress, voice teacher, vocal arranger, and producer. Her honey-laced yet soulful vocals embody the influences of her family's rich musical heritage, including her grandmother Thelma’s powerful gospel singing, her uncle James Van Buren’s internationally-known jazz vocals, and her cousin Michael Van Buren’s R&B musicianship. Bridget has been chosen to sing with Grammy Award-winning artists like Michael Bolton, Barry Manilow, and Larnelle Harris, as well as the Twin Cities’ own Alexander O’Neal and multi-platinum jazz artist Walter Chancellor Jr.

Bridget's vocal talent led her to a record contract with Westgate Artists of Brooklyn Park, MN, and she has performed internationally as a lead vocalist with the American Collegiate Talent Showcase on a USO tour. She received classical and jazz vocal training from Julliard-trained vocal teachers and studied piano from the age of 9 through college. She has also studied ballet and jazz dance from childhood through her college years, as well as praise dance. Bridget has held titles such as Miss Black Kansas (twice), Miss Black America Finalist, and Miss Black USA Finalist, and has performed in venues like Marla Gibbs’ Memory Lane in Los Angeles.

As a member of the 3x Grammy Award-winning group Sounds of Blackness since 1993, Bridget has been featured on several of their CDs and has received acclaim for her dynamic performances. She has performed in productions like 'Once On This Island' and 'The Gospel of Colonus' and has received rave reviews for her portrayals of Aretha Franklin, Josephine Baker, and Patti Labelle in 'Sugar & Spice- A Black Woman’s Melody'. Bridget continues to share her gift of singing to uplift and inspire all people.

Daonna Lewis is a native of St. Paul, Minnesota, and proud mother of two children. She earned her bachelors of fine arts degree from the University of Minnesota and has a rich artistic background, with two decades of experience in dance. Daonna honed her skills at the TU Dance Center for five years and was awarded a scholarship to attend the Alvin Ailey Summer Intensive in 2013. Notably, she performed with the TU Dance Company at the Ordway for their 10-year anniversary in 2014. Daonna is also recognized for her advocacy work, having been the 'Face of Minnesota Without Poverty' since 2010. She showcased her talent at various events, including choreographing the 'Raise the Wage Flash Mob' in 2014. Her contributions extend to theater, where she served as part of the ensemble and dance coach for "The Color Purple" at Park Square Theater from December 2014 to February 2015. Additionally, she has taught as a Harambee Teaching Artist at the Ordway in October 2015 and served as a choreographer for TU Dance Center as part of the Artful Aging program in collaboration with Episcopal Homes in St. Paul and Aroha's Seeding Vitality Arts grant in 2019. Her expertise also led her to be an Assistant Choreographer for the musical “Annie'' at the Ordway in 2019. Early this year Daonna was choreographer and lead dance soloist in "Jamecia Bennett & Friends" showcase at the Ordway. Currently, Daonna shares her passion by teaching Workshop, a choreography-based class at TU Dance for ages 11 to 13. Her choreographic style, known as SIR (Soulfully Investigating and Reflecting), reflects her deep connection to movement and expression.

Nagashia Jackson launched her career as a photographer at Minneapolis Public Schools. Working in the communications department, her supervisor at the time, Jackie Turner, handed her the camera and said, "Figure it out." Taking on the challenge, she conquered it and established Nagashia Jackson Photography. Since starting her photography business, she has photographed artists such as Janet Jackson, Cardi B, Chris Brown, Usher, Missy Elliott, Mariah Carey, Lil Wayne, Simone Biles, Lebron James, and Kendrick Lamar, to name a few. She plays a crucial role as a talented team member at the widely respected Rolling Out Magazine, excelling as a skilled photojournalist and content creator. Nagashia has expanded her photography business to include videography and three captivating music videos produced for Jamecia Bennett, a 3-time Grammy award winner.

www.nagashiajackson.com

Vicki Clark, affectionately known as Auntie Vicki, brings a vibrant and joyful energy to Bennett's Bootcamp. Raised in Rockford, Auntie Vicki is Jamecia Bennett’s beloved aunt. Known for her hilarious, spunky personality and infectious laughter, she is a true delight to be around.

Auntie Vicki works at Pimento Jamaican Kitchen, where she shines not only as an expert but also as master of improvisation. Her expertise in both hospitality and facilitating makes her a unique and invaluable asset to our team.

At Bennett's Bootcamp, Auntie Vicki will be spearheading our catering efforts, ensuring that everyone is well-fed with delicious meals. Additionally, her background in improv and comedy will bring an extra layer of fun and creativity to our program. We are thrilled to have Auntie Vicki on board, bringing her warmth, humor, and culinary talents to enrich the camp experience for everyone.

Thomasina Petrus, a cherished figure in the Twin Cities arts community, has graced the stages of Penumbra, Park Square, Mixed Blood, Illusion, Guthrie, Capri, and Old Arizona Theatres in lead roles, showcasing her exceptional talent as both an actor and jazz vocalist. Embracing her roots as a "hometown girl," Thomasina has honed her craft through mentorships and collaborations with esteemed artists, including James “Cornbread” Harris, Sr., Javetta Steele, and Prince, among others.

Driven by a passion for exceptional music and theatre, Thomasina established her own production company, Thomasina Productions, to bring powerful stories to life on stage. Through productions like "Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill" and her own creations such as "Lady Days" and "Etta…Dreams to Remember," Thomasina has captivated audiences with her portrayal of iconic figures and her original musical compositions. Her tribute CD "If Only…Billie Unsung" has garnered acclaim both locally and worldwide, while her Christmas CD "The Perfect Gift…Songs" remains a beloved holiday favorite in the Twin Cities and beyond. Adding sweetness to her repertoire, Thomasina has introduced her trademarked productions THOMASINA’S CASHEW BRITTLE and THOMASINA’S APPLE BRITTLE, delighting audiences with her culinary creations. With upcoming projects like "Thomasina’s Hot Chocolate," Thomasina continues to enchant audiences with her talent and creativity, inviting them to experience the magic of live performance.

Sheridan Zuther is an American singer/songwriter and producer known for her versatility across jazz, Broadway, R&B, pop, gospel, and opera. Her 2022 debut solo album, Songs from the Silo, extends her original cabaret show that premiered in 2016. Growing up in North Dakota, Sheridan's musical journey began early, including voice lessons at Minot State University and a job as a radio announcer at 15, which sparked her interest in various musical genres.

Sheridan attended the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory of Music, earning a B.M. in Vocal Performance-Opera. Post-graduate studies included a performance at Carnegie Hall before moving to Minneapolis, where she starred in productions at prominent venues like the Guthrie and Ordway Center. She toured with the vocal jazz quintet Five By Design, performing across the U.S. and Canada. As an Associate Producer with Cardinal Theatricals and a vocal coach at MacPhail School of Music, Sheridan continues to influence the musical community through her performances, teaching, and production work.

SHAPESHIFT Dance is a highly acclaimed hip-hop/contemporary dance collective that uses a fusion of dance styles to create powerful theatrical productions tackling issues of social injustice, loss, love, and human emotions. SHAPESHIFT productions are beautifully told through interwoven vignettes that incorporate acting, dance and a range of musical selections.

Performances include, The Kennedy Center in Washington DC, Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York ,and the Indiana Repertory in Indianapolis. They have performed and partnered with local organizations such as General Mills ,The Sanneh Foundation, Social

Enterprise Minneapolis, and The University of St Thomas.

SHAPESHIFT has been the Cover Feature of Lavender Magazine, a spotlight feature on TPT Originals/PBS, and also featured in

Mpls. St. Paul Magazine!

Additional performances include Prince’s Tribute Concert in front of 20,000 strong at Xcel Energy Center, 5 time performances

on the WeDay Concert tour, including a dance challenge with icon Paula Abdul and DirectTV Now’s Jennifer Lopez campaign

during Super Bowl LII.

In June 2022, SHAPESHIFT premiered their latest production ‘Be Your Own Superhero’ and in January 2023, returned from

performing at the Booking Dance Festival at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City.

SHAPESHIFT performers embrace their diversity and inclusiveness, love their community and are driven to inspire others by

bringing people together through inspirational movement.