The Baltimore scene
The Baltimore Crown Awards was founded by poet, actress, curator, and playwright, Chin-Yer Wright of The Baltimore Scene. For over a decade, The Baltimore Scene has hosted The Crown Awards to formally recognize the many talented artists working in the city of Baltimore. Blue was nominated for two years in a row for the category of Actress of the Year. This is her performance from last year. Please enjoy!
“My favorite quote by Notosake Shange would have to be, “I found God in myself, and I loved her fiercely.” For me, it isn’t enough to love God and hope life will be better but rather love myself like I do God and work towards a better life. Love for oneself will see to it that you achieve just that”
Thoughts of a colored man
For the celebration of the Broadway play, THOUGHTS OF A COLORED MAN, returning home, alums above from left to right: Jha’Neal Blue, Coty Forno of Mountain City Center for the Arts, Sean Cercone the Founder and CEO of Broadway Licensing, Kai B. White Actress and Singer, Jeff Keilholtz the Vice President of Business Development at Broadway Licensing and Keenan Scott II Broadway playwright and actor came back to their alma mater, Frostburg State University to teach a series of Theatre Master Classes.
Frostburg State University
Blue served as the commencement speaker for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at her Frostburg State University graduation. Blue spoke about her time before her undergrad and the challenges she faced to become the woman and artist she is today. Many people in the audience were moved by her words of compassion for herself and others. She received a standing ovation, leaving many graduates and their families teary-eyed.
Yay, Blue!
“In our world, divide and conquer must become define and empower.”
Notable Awards/Mentions: President’s Award For Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Dean’s list 4.0 GPA, President of Spectrum, Dean’s Colloquium for the Direction of the Vagina Monologues, and a Member of FSU’s Title IX Task Force Team.
Sunset baby!
“Dominique Morisseau’s words resonate with me as a Black woman first and foremost, and then as an artist. She weaves narratives that authentically capture the Black experience, steering clear of monolithic portrayals and stereotypes. I have yet to encounter a play of hers where I couldn’t recognize aspects of myself or my own family.”
Detroit ‘67
Actors pictured: Dazinsky Muscadin, Najah James, and Jha’Neal Blue.
“Dominique Morisseau accomplishes what American theatre has, since its inception, often failed to achieve: acknowledging the pivotal role of Black women in driving change. In the narrative, it is Chelle who anchors her family and imparts wisdom. She sets aside her personal aspirations to ensure a brighter future for her brother and son. While we may not be privy to an extensive exploration of Chelle’s backstory, our introduction to her compels us to acknowledge the sacrifices that underpin the possibilities in her surroundings.”
Harry and the Thief
Actors pictured: Jha’Neal Blue and Jasmin Proctor.
“I often contemplate where we, as Black people, might be if Mimi had indeed journeyed back to equip Harriet Tubman with modern firearms. On a different note, Sigrid’s decision to incorporate Harriet’s love story into the play profoundly touched me. Seldom does anyone delve into her humanity. This work allows audiences to perceive Harriet as an individual—a woman who experienced love and heartbreak.”