Artburst Extras
M Ensemble, City of Miami Gardens Partner For ‘Students On Stage’ Program
Kaaliyah Lollar, left, and Skyla Williams work with Keith Wilson, choreographer and drama instructor, for the city of Miami Gardens and M Ensemble Company’s “Students on Stage Theatre Program.” The program culminates in a public performance on Thursday, May 15 at the Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Center, Miami Gardens. (Photo courtesy of M Ensemble)
In a vibrant celebration of youth voices and artistic expression, the city of Miami Gardens is launching its first-ever youth theater program, a groundbreaking initiative made possible through a dynamic partnership with the M Ensemble Company.
The “Students on Stage Theatre Program” is an eight-week program at the Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Center and marks a milestone for the city. Co-founders and executive directors Patricia E. Williams and Shirley Richardson of M Ensemble wanted to offer a powerful creative outlet for youth while continuing M Ensemble’s legacy of community-centered arts engagement. As the city’s first dedicated youth theater initiative, it also reflects a growing investment in cultivating the artistic potential of Miami Gardens’ next generation.
Patricia E. Williams, left, and Shirley Richardson on the set of M Ensemble’s “The Girls of Summer” at the Sandrell Rivers Theater in Liberty City in February 2024. (Photo courtesy of Chasity Hart)
With more than 50 years of experience in arts education, the M Ensemble Company, Florida’s oldest continuously operating Black theater company, which presents its productions at the Sandrell Rivers Theater in Liberty City, has long championed the power of storytelling to uplift and empower.
“We’ve always worked with the youth,” says Williams, reflecting on the company’s long-standing programming, which has included partnerships with juvenile centers, organizations like the YWCA, and programs designed for blind students.
The student program meets twice a week and brings together young participants to explore performance through poetry, prose, and improvisation.
In preparation for its upcoming showcase, students are drawing inspiration from “The Me Nobody Knows: Children’s Voices from the Ghetto” by Stephen M. Joseph, an anthology featuring real writings from children growing up in under-resourced communities.
The students were encouraged to reflect on their own lives and experiences, building a performance that is as personal as it is powerful, according to Richardson.
“These kids are working together as a team. That’s what theater does,” says Richardson. “We all rely on one another to make a show happen.” She highlighted how the program builds not just artistic skill, but also discipline, confidence, and a strong sense of belonging, qualities that extend far beyond the stage.
The final event, which is open to the public, will take place at the Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Center on Thursday, May 15, with a community reception starting at 6 p.m., with a performance at 7:30 p.m.
At left, from front, Kaadiyah Lollar, Neriah Riley, Kaliyah Mills and Skyla Williams. At right, from front, Alaya Jenkins, Greyson Jones, Kaneil Jon and Cameron Seldon, participating in the Students on Stage Theatre Program. (Photo courtesy of M Ensemble)
In addition to the student showcase, the evening will include performances by other local youth groups, including the Viking Freedom Writers from Miami Norland Senior High School, Miami Gardens.
“We think the kids deserve to be recognized, as well as their parents,” says Richardson. “This is about more than just a performance. It’s about giving these young people the space to be seen, heard, and celebrated.”
Admission is free and open to the public. Community members are warmly encouraged to attend, support, and uplift the rising stars of Miami Gardens.
As the curtain rises on this new chapter in the city’s cultural story, one thing is clear: the young performers have something to say, and now, they have a stage to express it.
WHAT: M Ensemble’s Students on Stage Theatre Program
WHERE: Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Complex auditorium, 3000 NW 199th St., Miami Gardens
WHEN: 6 p.m. reception, 7:30 p.m. performance, Thursday, May 15
COST: Free. Must RSVP at education@miamigardens-fl.gov
INFORMATION: themensemble.com
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