I founded The Southern Soul Theatre Ensemble to bring something deeply meaningful to Galveston County—a space where art truly feeds the soul. I saw a need for a theatre company that amplifies diverse voices and tells stories reflecting the unique experiences and heritage of our community. My vision was to build more than just a theatre company; I wanted to create a space where people could come together to experience transformative performances that challenge, inspire, and foster a sense of belonging.
Inspired by the works of storytellers like August Wilson and Ntozake Shange and actors like James Earl Jones and Jennifer Holliday, who demonstrated how theatre reflects our lives, struggles, and triumphs, I sought to continue that legacy. The Southern Soul Theatre Ensemble honors this tradition by celebrating history, heritage, and the human spirit on stage, creating shared experiences that connect us and push us toward a more inclusive and equitable world—one story at a time.
BRYAN-KEYTH WILSON (Founding Artistic Director) (He/Him), known as the Literary Prince, is an award-winning playwright, producer, and theatre marketer deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the arts. He began his theatre career Off-Off-Broadway and is the founding artistic director of The Creative Co-Lab TX|NYC. Wilson's acclaimed works include the choreopoem FOR COLORED BOYZ on the verge of a nervous breakdown/when freedom aint enuff, which won multiple awards and was showcased Off-Broadway. He is developing a musical on Congressman John Lewis titled THE BOY FROM TROY and his first comic book series, THE TALENTED TENTH. As a marketer and brand strategist, Wilson connects audiences with transformative theatrical experiences, leveraging his arts leadership and market expertise to drive success. He also hosts The Broadway & Beyond Podcast, serves on the faculty of The Black Writers Reunion & Conference, and is a member of The Latiné Musical Theatre Lab and The Dramatists Guild.
LINDA BAKER (Managing Director) (She/ Her) Linda Baker is the Managing Director of Southern Soul Theatre Company, bringing over 25 years of administrative experience from her career at UTMB. With a passion for the arts, Linda has served as Operations Manager for Artists in Motion and Budget Manager for the Houston workshop production of FOR COLORED BOYZ. Her love for theatre and dance fuels her dedication to SSTN, where she is thrilled to volunteer her expertise in support of the company’s mission. Linda is committed to fostering a vibrant, inclusive community through the transformative power of the performing arts.
To enrich the cultural fabric of Galveston County by fostering a more inclusive and equitable space for all artists of diverse backgrounds and disciplines, to inspire, educate, and engage with community, through our shared human experiences.
Core
Values
Cultural
Integrity
Inclusivity and Representation
Education and Empowerment
Community Engagement
Artistic
Excellence
Social Change and Advocacy
Collaboration and Partnership
Core Values for Southern Soul Theatre Company
- Inclusivity and Representation: We are committed to creating a welcoming and equitable environment where diverse voices and perspectives are heard, respected, and celebrated on and off the stage.
- Artistic Excellence: We strive for the highest standards of creativity and craftsmanship in every production, nurturing the talents of artists and storytellers to deliver compelling and impactful theatre.
- Community Engagement: We believe in building strong connections within our community by offering accessible and meaningful theatrical experiences that reflect the rich cultural mosaic of Galveston County.
- Education and Empowerment: We are dedicated to empowering individuals through education and mentorship, providing opportunities for learning, growth, and professional development in the arts.
- Cultural Integrity: We honor the traditions, stories, and cultural heritage of our community, ensuring authenticity and respect in our storytelling practices.
- Social Change and Advocacy: We use the power of theatre as a tool for social change, addressing pressing issues, challenging injustices, and fostering dialogue that promotes empathy, understanding, and progress.
- Collaboration and Partnership: We believe in the strength of collaboration and actively seek partnerships with local organizations, artists, and community members to create a thriving and supportive artistic ecosystem.
CANDICE C. JONES
Artistic Advisor
DAMASCUS DOTSON
KATINA GORDON
AMBER BROOKS
COBY CAGLE
LARITA Courville MERRIT
ELIJAH GIBSON
Artistic Advisor
NIA BENN
JANETTE POLIVKA
BIANCA FRANKLIN
NAKISHA PAUL
TOMMY TORRES
Special Stage & Spice Event with Complementary Cocktails/ 3 course Dinner and a show.
October 25 & 26
“tha other ameriKKKa” is a choreopoem inspired by Martin Luther King Jr’s powerful lecture On April 14, 1967 at Stanford University. This choreopoem is a contemporary analysis of the duality and reality that plague America. Why is there this other America for the marginalized and people with skin colors other than white? Through a blend of poetry, prose, music, and movement, the piece challenges perceptions and sparks dialogue on the complexities of the American experience.
Special Stage & Spice Event with Complementary Cocktails/ 3 course Dinner and a show.
October 25 & 26
Productions are made possible in part by the generous donations of the following:
If you would like to become a sponsor of our upcoming inaugural season please contact us at: southernsoultheatre@gmail.com
CONTACT US
@southernsoultheatre
southernsoultheatre@gmail.com