Entertainers - Cultural Arts & Wellness Festival

Sunday, May 24  •  noon - 6 p.m.  •  Francis-Stevens Educational Campus, 2425 N St NW, WDC 20037 (outside)


ButtaFlySoul

ButtaFlySoul, co-host

"BUTTAFLYSOUL" is The One Man Show: Vocalist, Poet, Humorist, Host; a versatile, captivating and uncommonly gifted entertainer.

Born Leslie Taylor, "ButtaFlySouL," established himself as a powerhouse talent at open mics and poetry slams, first in his native Chicago and later at venues from coast to coast. His vocal styles, rooted in gospel, encompass R&B, Jazz, Pop and Hip Hop. A noted author and activist, Butta (as he’s known to family and friends) writes poems, lyrics and essays that are informed by his own unique compelling experiences. To see and hear entertainer ButtaFlySouL is to be forever moved.

Rayceen Pendarvis

Rayceen Pendarvis, co-host

Rayceen Pendarvis is a columnist for SWERV magazine, activist, former ANC Commissioner, and lifelong Washingtonian. In 2014, Rayceen appeared on the cover of Metro Weekly, hosted the DC Black Pride Festival, moderated a panel at NIH, was a double-nominee (for both Most Committed Activist and Local Hero) in the Washington Blade “Best of Gay DC” awards, and received the Angel Award at the Latex Ball in NYC. This year, Rayceen was profiled in the Washington Blade and Tagg magazine, officiated a wedding, and has hosted several events, including Black Transcendence: A Black Queer & Trans Art Experience. Upcoming events include being MC at Miss and Plus Northeast Royale in Philadelphia on June 20, being part of the Smithsonian’s screening of “Paris Is Burning” at the National Museum of Natural History on June 25, and hosting the “Quick and Dirty” author reading at The DC Center’s Fifth Annual OutWrite LGBT Book Festival on August 1.

Rayceen is also the host of THE ASK RAYCEEN SHOW, a free, monthly, live entertainment event on first Wednesdays (March-November) at LIV NIGHTCLUB, located at 11th and U Streets NW. Show segments include panel discussions, interviews, live music performances, improv comedy, games, and more. Doors open at 6 p.m. All are welcome and admission is FREE.

Anthony Wayne from 
Mighty Real: A Fabulous Sylvester Musical

Anthony Wayne from
"Mighty Real: A Fabulous Sylvester Musical"

Mighty Real: A Fabulous Sylvester Musical® is a new musical written by Anthony Wayne and Directed by Wayne and Kendrell Bowman. It tells the life story of Sylvester through his music and his point of view. Beyond all the trials, tribulations, glitz and glamour of his lifestyle, he was a symbol for being FABULOUS, but, also, a symbol for unapologetically being who he was. The words and music of this show will enter your ear, soar throuSgh your heart and inspire your soul. It’s GUARANTEED to have EVERYONE dancing in the aisles. Broadway Star Anthony Wayne (Broadway’s “PIPPIN”, “PRISCILLA”, “Anything Goes” [2011]) sings, lives and breathes life as the 1970’s Disco Singer SYLVESTER. The show, also, features Broadway’s Anastacia McCleskey (“PRISCILLA”; “HAIR”, “Book Of Mormon”) and Jacqueline B. Arnold (“We Will Rock You”, “PRISCILLA”) as The Two Tons of Fun/Weather Girls.
 
Aaron Paul

Aaron Paul

London born, Brooklyn based singer and songwriter, Aaron Paul has returned bigger and stronger than ever with his 1st solo album after leaving Worlds Apart teen boy pop group. World Apart had a unprecedented chart run of over 5 top 30 UK singles including: ' Heaven Must Be Missing An Angel’, (recently featured on the soundtrack in the huge blockbuster and academy award winning movie "The Queen"), 'Everlasting Love’, ‘Wonderful World' (written by Aaron Paul & fellow band member Patric Osbourne), and their biggest hit ‘Could it be I’m Falling in Love' and many more.

Aaron Paul came to the attention of Arista Records executive Simon Cowell (American Idol, Britain’s Got Talent and X-Factor) impressed by his incredible pure voice, natural performance skills and fun personality he positioned Aaron as lead vocalist/front man and lead the group to their chart success.

After moving to New York City and taking a career break from the music industry. In 2010 Aaron was persuaded by Grammy winning producer Barry “Oh” Goldstein to return to recording. Where they both wrote together and released the pop funk song 'Shake Your Body' and 'Searching' (featured on the compilation "There’s an Angel Watching You" and was reviewed by Billboard magazine! Aaron began his journey as a driven solo artist and then frequently returned back to the UK for live promotional tours and a busy radio schedule and was received with great applause!

2013 was extraordinary and life-changing for Aaron, with a new sound and team he fulfilled a life-long dream – releasing and writing his own solo album ‘RAW’. All of the 11 songs lyrics were written by Aaron Paul. Together with all the producers including newcomer, Robby Dwayne (Day26, Crystal Waters), they have skillfully combined Aaron's heritage and musical roots to create a fun, personal, socially conscious record.

2015, Aaron Paul has released of his break out new single, "I Don't Care" (The Remixes). "I Don't Care", is an uptempo anthem of peace, understanding and acceptance amongst us all which ha. The Sobel Promotions promoted single will feature an extensive remix package featuring a remix by re-known Producer/Remixer Julian Marsh (Dolly Parton, Boy George, Shannon and Taylor Dayne). I DON'T CARE! is currently climbing the INTERNATIONAL DANCE MUSIC CHARTS as we speak. And also has gained more than 100,000 votes on Starfleetmusicpool.com

 
Blair Dottin Haley

Blair Dottin Haley

Blair’s talent has always shone through his bright smile and charmingly effervescent personality. A child of the bayou; born and raised in New Orleans and always singing its praises. Blair’s soulful sound has always easily drawn a crowd, large and small. At the tender age of 8, he began showing his talents at Peter Claver, subsequently turning his whole family Catholic (according to Leah Chase). Once he became a Purple Knight he found his way onto the stage at the St. Augustine Talent Shows, from there it was non-stop performing on the football field during half-time and numerous spring band concerts. At 18, Blair was given the opportunity to grace the legendary Apollo stage where he displayed his magnificent presence. During his tenure at the Xavier University, Blair used his gift of song and speech to win the title of Mr. Xavier. This elevated his performance exposure and over the years Blair has used his voice to uplift at-risk youth, the LGBT community, civic gatherings, corporate and private company events. His voice has captured the tender moments of several brides walking down the aisle. Blair is of the firm belief that music is love and he can at best share it through his range and melody. Till the day he dies he will declare his love to his one and only which he expressed on the altar in a mesmerizing performance of Donny Hathaway’s “A Song for You.”

 
Crisean

Crisean

Crisean is an independent artist with an infusion of Pop, Dance and Soul/R&B. Since the age of 8, he has been singing his heart out singing Disney songs around the house and putting on shows for family members. He also attempted, putting words to paper writing lyrics and coming up with topics that made no sense. In 2006 he started writing songs for his sometime in the near future debut studio album. With no formal training Crisean studied music at Baltimore City Community College. Being inspired by contemporary artists his whole life such as Beyonce, Britney Spears and Usher. That’s where he fell in love with Soul Music and legendary icons such as Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye and Elvis Presley.

Now Crisean is ready and willing to do what it takes to make it big. "Being from Baltimore, Maryland it is not easy getting music out there and finding a place to start" says Crisean. Crisean has performed in various Open Mic events across the City of Baltimore promoting and getting the word out.

Sound Approved - EP is the journey through the life of Crisean. Having written and produced every song it touches on topics of love, self empowerment and acceptance. From past break ups, over- coming adversities, to a friend with benefits deal turn into something more. "Everyone goes through break-ups, trying to love ourselves more, finding love and wanting to find love." This body of work embodies all of that. From me to my fans and future fans" says Crisean.

 
EnKore Dance Company

EnKore Dance Company

EnKore Dance Company is an urban dance company from the DMV with the objective to train dancers to sustain a professional career in entertainment. EnKore dancers credits include former 106 & Park champions, Bronner Bros ATL, BET's Black Girls Rock and much more. EnKore delivers a action packed edge of your seat performance consisting of energetic entertaining versatile dancers.

 
Evolution Dance Company

Evolution Dance Company

The Evolution Dance Company (EDC) was founded by Michael Moore (Director) a Washington D.C. native in October of 2013. The goal of (EDC) was to have a platform for dancers who range from ages 18-30 to perform and grow as a performer locally and beyond . (EDC) aims to provide the highest quality of dance education and performance experiences to transform the dance community. Evolution is a team that performs in the genres of dance such as Jazz, Modern, Hip-Hop & J-Setting. Evolution has competed throughout the dance competition season and recently won Grand Champion at the The CARE Auxiliary Dance Championship 2015. The team can also be seen supporting supporting other groups in the area such as the DC DIVAS & WASHINGTON PRODIGY which are two semi-professional woman's contact football teams as well as many other events in the area.

 
Gabrielle Remsen

Gabrielle Remsen

Gabrielle is the current reigning “Miss New Faces of Baltimore 2015”, 1st Alternate Miss Gay Maryland United States 2015 and 1st Alternate Miss Gay Club Orpheus MDUS 2014. She has performed within the “DMV” area for a little over 2 years and is an advocate to the beginning female impersonators that are up and coming. In addition to the many changes for female impersonators in the Maryland Region, she is also a Promoter of Maryland’s newest addition to the pageantry systems in the state, “Miss Maryland Pride of America”, which gives back to the community within a Charity.

She is a Baltimore School for the Arts alumna, has had training within the Performing Arts field and has taught many talented babies, children, teens and adults in the field of Performing Arts that have been very successful in the art forms that they have chosen. She is also a dance instructor at N’Ferno Performing Arts based in Randallstown, MD, were she has created multiple “works” that has reached “High Gold”, “Platinum” or “Double Platinum” and “Best Trio Overall” within the Tri-State area. She has continued to help other impersonators reach their dreams in other systems like the “America” and “USofA” Pageantry Systems and is willing to help others.

 

Gay Men's Chorus of Washington, DCGay Men's Chorus of Washington, DC

Under the direction of Artistic Director Thea Kano, the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC (GMCW) is in its 34th season with a mission to delight audiences and champion gay equality with robust artistry, fun and surprise. GMCW has more than 220 singing members, two select vocal ensembles, 100 support volunteers, more than 400 subscribers, 500 donors and an annual audience of more than 10,000 people.

GMCW is honored to include in its history iconic venues such as the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the White House, Carnegie Hall, Symphony Hall in Boston, the Lincoln Memorial, presidential inauguration celebrations and more. GMCW features two select outreach vocal ensembles: Potomac Fever, a 14-voice close harmony a cappella group and Rock Creek Singers, a 35-voice chamber ensemble.

Since 2001, GMCW has maintained a robust youth outreach program, GenOUT, that offers free tickets to high school students, parents and teachers, in addition to offering in-school outreach and empowerment programs. The Chorus demonstrates its commitment to community outreach projects by participating in the Whitman-Walker AIDS Walk, an annual toy drive to benefit Community Family Life Services, Christmas Eve caroling at the National Institutes of Health and volunteering at Food & Friends. GMCW is a proud member of the Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses (GALA Choruses) and Chorus America.

Jason LyricJason Lyric

Jason Lyric formerly known as JV is a passionate independent artist who uses his music to promote the message of love and acceptance. His music is from the perspective of a proud Black man who loves God and who is also gay. The content is relatable to all lifestyles and reflects the ups and downs of everyday life. The music stays true to the R&B sound of his musical influence Janet Jackson, Usher, Chris Brown, Trey Songz and Brandy.

In 2004 he released his highly anticipated debut CD “Breathe U”. He self produced and self distributed the project through his Daddy’s Boy Productions entertainment firm. Through the summer of 2004, he toured throughout Virginia, Indiana and New York in support of the project. Songs released from the CD have become staples on local gospel stations around and beyond Central Virginia.

A highlight for Jason Lyric was when he was given the opportunity to open up for Yolanda Adams as part of the Wesley Boyd Choir. He was personally requested to sing one of his original songs “Won’t Let Go” from the Breathe U CD. Lyric also shared the stage with R&B great Marsha Ambrosius.

Jason Lyric will be releasing his new project “The Lyric’s Lounge” in June 2015. The first single “Who You Are To Me” will be released in May of 2015. The songs on the new project reflect his journey as a gay Black man who loves God and people. His mission is to combat the hatred associated with many Black churches towards the LGBT community. His lyrics celebrate the fact that God loves all of His children including the LGBT community. Lyric promises “my music is not preachy, it’s fun and realistic. I write about my life and I believe others can relate to my experiences”. His songs speak of God, love, heartbreak, homophobia, friendship, celebrations and triumph. Jason Lyric is an energetic performer and sincere songwriter. He is ready to influence the hearts and minds of all who hear him.

 

KIN4LIFE

KIN4LIFE

A new day is upon us, and hip hop’s answer to the question “what happened to the female rap game” is here. Blessed with the lyrical prowess to compete with the hottest emcees in the business, and being touted as the female version of The Neptunes, the female duo KIN4LIFE is a force. Together as a group for ten years and friends for over fifteen, Nor and IQ have solidified their family ties and KIN4LIFE has never had a truer meaning.

Born and raised in Mt. Vernon, N.Y., a town known for its contribution to hip hop in the late 80s and early 90s, KIN4LIFE is determined to bring hip hop glory back to their hometown and respect back to their genre. As young entrepreneurs, they founded their label, Noriq Records in 2002. Under this imprint, they have released the album KIN4LIFE Volume I” and the EPs “Rock Star” and “I Love KIN4LIFE”. The video for the hit single “Make Up Girl” held a spot on the Click List Countdown on MTV’s Logo for 11 consecutive weeks, and was nominated for The Click List's Top 10 Videos of 2009 . In 2013, KIN4LIFE released their full length album “Money Brings Trouble”, available on iTunes and other online retailers.

KIN4LIFE has performed at South By Southwest 2015, the GO Magazine New York Nightlife Awards show, Pride celebrations in major U.S. cities and the Dominican Republic (where they performed along with Grammy nominee Marsha Ambrosius) and nightclubs and music festivals across the country. KIN4LIFE won the OutMusic Award for Best Hip Hop Song of the Year in 2012 for "It's Over Now", was chosen as Group of the Year by the OutHipHop.com 2010 Readers Poll and named one of the top 50 most influential LGBTQ celebrities by the G-List Society in 2013. Notable collaborations include tracks with producer DJ Jazzy Jeff and artists STS, Lil Flip, Black Ice and Clarita De Quiroz.

KIN4LIFE admits that their first love is emceeing, but their production and songwriting skills makes them a hot commodity behind the scenes. Working with the hottest up and coming hip hop and R&B acts, KIN4LIFE garnered comparison to Missy Elliot, prompting them to form Noriq Records’ subsidiaries, Red Eye Productions and The KIN Factory (writing and production). They showcased their talent as producers in the fall of 2009, winning the “King of the ATL” battle at the industry proving ground Producer’s Swap Meet in Atlanta. They have worked with a range of artists including Black Ice, Babs Bunny, Monifah, Lady Twist and Ty Ward. Their single “Money Brings Trouble” was chosen for placement in the feature film “Changing The Game” which premiered at the 2011 Hollywood Black Film Festival and opened in AMC Theaters in May 2012. KIN4LIFE’s music has also been featured in the films: Black Womyn Conversations, M.I., Honor and Pride, The Family, and the Crazy Sexy Cool, GirlPlay and Lovers and Friends webseries. In 2012, KIN4LIFE made their acting debut as cast members in an Atlanta production of Eve Ensler’s “The Vagina Monologues”. The music video for "It's Over Now" was an official selection for the Philadelphia Independent Film Festival 2012 and The Women's Film Festival 2015.

In 2010, KIN4LIFE wrote and produced the single “Lone Ranger” in support of LGBTQ youth, and in response to the recent wave of bullying and attacks that have made national headlines. The track was released as a free download on Christmas Day and had 2000 downloads in the first 48 hours. KIN4LIFE has also been featured on the PBS Emmy winning series "In The Life: Defying Stereotypes" which they now screen at universities across the country as part of a diversity and anti-bullying program and workshop for students and faculty.

 
Mike Thomas

Mike Thomas

Baltimore, Maryland native, Mike Thomas comes by his talent naturally and tastefully. Coming up he has gained his great talents being a musician in church. Like many Indie artists, Mike is working had to be successful, doing what ever it takes to progress. A talented writer and producer from Baltimore, Mike plays multiple instruments, most of which he learned from his days play in church and studying under other great musicians. He produces all of his own music and writes majority of all his music. He gets ammunition from his experiences as a professional musician sharing the stage with major artist and other musicians, with conversations covering “Life, Family, Love, Sex". Mike describes his sound as “soulful pop” like influences such as Dru Hill, Tank, R. Kelly, Tyrese, Ruff Endz and many more, he also admires old-school veterans such as Al Green, Stevie Wonder, Prince, Etta James, Marvin Gaye, and Betty Wright and more. He’s on a mission to represent a old soul from a new soul perspective. Mike's long-term goals include, winning grammy's, reaching the world, making a difference in today's music, but also doing more production and writing for other main stream, indie and upcoming artists. Mike Thomas recently release a R&B album on June 13, 2014 "Live" in Baltimore, MD. "Progression" (iTunes, CdBaby, Spotify etc.) and is continuing as a indie artist to hit the charts. Mike Is in preparation of his new upcoming record "Reality" July 2015 featuring singles "Cigarettes & Whiskey" & "Was A Fool" Featuring: Singapore.

 
Cecily Mone't Major

Mone't

Cecily Mone't Major (born December 3,1987) is a R&B and Soul singer-songwriter. Mone't auditioned and became an intricate part of a popular local singing group called Next Level at age 13. In 2005 the group released their highly anticipated album titled "Tru Story." In the group, Mone't opened up for various artists like, Jason Aldean and The Temptation Review as well as selling out concerts they headlined.

As an adult, Mone't has had the opportunity to sing onstage with the talented Marsha Ambrosius. Recently, she has performed her new single, N.A.S locally in Virginia as well as in Atlanta.

Presently, Mone't is embarking on her solo career writing and recording new songs with plans on releasing her debut album in the near future.

 
OASIS Dance Collective

OASIS Dance Collective

Founded in 2003, the OASIS Dance Collective is a nonprofit located in the national capital region of Washington, DC, and Norwich, CT, committed to making dance a meaningful experience for all. OASIS combines all forms of dance to create an eclectic performance that captivates and rouses the senses of the audience. The collective participates in diverse performances, including local and national parades, talent competitions, television appearances, music videos, tours, and pep rallies. The dance collective’s success reflects the commitment and enthusiasm of its members, and we use dance to build self-confidence and strength by encouraging open expression of emotions and allowing for collaboration with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. In doing so, our collective encourages the hard work and dedication that make outstanding dance performances possible.

 

Septimius The GreatSeptimius The Great

Septimius the Great, a Maryland based dance artist, is an multi-award winning entertainer and creative innovator. Known around the globe for his dance music in domestically and abroad, he has worked with some of the industry’s biggest names including Fantasia, Chrisette Michele, Lil Kim, Lil Mo, Pat Benetar, Patti Labelle, Crystal Waters and Ultra Nate’ just to name a few.

Septimius most recently became a 3x award winner at the Indie Music Channel Awards for Best Dance Music Artist - "Iam Fashion," Best World Music Artist - "Exotic Pleasure" and Best Rap Video - "When In Rome."

His recent chart topping recording, “Who's The Sexiest" earned him the International Music Award for Best Male Vocalist. Also in his song "I Am Fashion” garnered a nomination for “Best Dance Song” by the Hollywood Music in Media Awards. Most recently he has also been nominated for Best Music Artist by the Baltimore Music Awards and the RAW Music Awards. Septimius’ music is full of imagination and his performances have touched audiences in a brand new way. A hard worker, Septimius the Great has worked diligently to get his music across the airwaves and dance clubs of the world. He has single handedly pushed the energetic and powerful.

In addition to his music career, Septimius the Great is very active in front of and behind the camera. To date he’s produced four award worthy videos for his songs “Exotic Pleasure”, “I Am Fashion”, “Who’s the Sexiest”, and “When in Rome”. These songs and videos present the perfect fusion of dance music, fashion, and cultures.

From Opera to Rap, Dance to Hip Hop, Electronic to Pop, Septimius the Great’s music, magnetic personality, and flair for fashion, have announced his permanent presence on the music scene. He is here to stay!

Confident and Charismatic, with an infectious boatload of charm felt by his team all the way to his fans is the foundation of Septimius’ brand. Working with a multitude of producers, Septimius creates infectious beats and catchy songs that continually repeat through a person's mind that are inspired by ancient European style with a blend of dance, hip-hop, pop and rock.

With a style reminiscent of many the likes of: Will.i.am, Cee Lo Green, Michael Jackson, Prince, Madonna, Lady Gaga and Pitbull, Septimius the Great has performed in front of audiences in small lounges to large stadiums. In 2010, he launched his new music EP project called “The New Rome”. The first EP single “I Am Fashion” was released digitally all over world gaining huge recognition. “I Am Fashion” gained notoriety in Germany for his new creation of sound in dance music.

In January 2013, he began to release singles from his upcoming Debut CD “To Be Emperor” which has been well-received both domestically and internationally. The CD includes the original songs “Exotic Pleasure”, “Who’s the Sexiest”, “Command U 2 Dance” and the re-release of “I Am Fashion (remix)”. He is currently being featured on several TV Shows, Radio Stations and Magazines worldwide.

Septimius began as a performing artist in 1997 and that was when the former runway model realized his passion for music and singing. He soon started his recording career as a featured artist with the X9 records recording label, which led to a debut CD single with a local group (M.O.R.), which topped the dance music charts worldwide. He is currently being featured on several TV shows (Keeping it Real..) , radio stations (KISS FM, HOT 97..), and magazines (Swerv, V-Rag - Canada, Don Diva Magazine…) worldwide. A conscientious performer, Septimius believes that it is important to inspire our youth. Stressing education, he constantly teaches the importance of fairness and honest and provides a worthwhile competitive opportunity through his Mr. and Miss International Pageant.

Like the Roman Emperor, Septimius the Great will leave his mark in music history.

 

Shaquawna Shawnte'Shaquawna Shawnte'

Shaquawna Shawnte’ Carr is a passionate singer-songwriter with a soulful sound originating from Washington D.C., raised in Lynchburg, Va. Carr sang in a local group, Next Level, at the tender age of 12. Next Level sold out both of their headlining concerts, performed at numerous venues and opened for the Temptation Review as well as Jason Aldean during their five-year tenure. They released their first album True Story in 2005. In 2007 Carr also got the privilege to open up for Yolanda Adams at a gospel event. Most recently she sang alongside Marsha Ambrosius. Today Carr is working diligently on her solo career.

 

Syria SynclaireSyria Synclaire

Syria is the current Miss Tampa Bay International and Miss Gay Acadiana International, a former Miss Black National, East Coast International, International INC, Princess of New York, Philadelphia Black Pride, Tennessee Continental and a host of prestigious state and bar titles.

Syria is an advocate for transgender rights. She oversees "The DollHouse" a safe haven for trans people in the Greater New Orleans area. She has served on several committees and sub committees in regards to Holistic Health in the LGBT community. She is ceritfied by the CDC, Orleans & East Baton Rouge Parishes, Kings County and Fulton County Health Departments in HIV Testing and Counseling. A trailblazer and honorable Trans Woman who inspires to be an inspiration to the younger generations.

 
 
 
 
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