Originally making its Broadway debut in 2021, Thoughts of a Colored Man weaves spoken word, slam poetry and rhythm into a mosaic of the inner lives of Black men. Described as “A New American Play for a New Broadway,” the piece celebrates the hopes, ambitions, joys, and triumphs of Black men in a world that often refuses to hear them. With the story taking place over the course of a single day in the pulsing heart of Brooklyn, the hopes, sorrows, fears, and joys of seven men reverberate far beyond the barbershops and basketball courts of their community. Directed by Tramane Harris, this iteration of Thoughts of a Colored Man will underscore the vulnerability, rawness and vibrance that captivated audiences and critics alike when the play first premiered.

Date: February 14 & 15

Tickets: $30 + ticketing fee

Venue: 651 ARTS at L10
10 Lafayette Avenue, 4th Floor
Brooklyn, NY 11217

Rooted Theater Company, founded in 2013, is the premier theater in East New York, Brooklyn. Dedicated to producing socially relevant theater based on community experiences, Rooted engages, challenges, and inspires audiences through productions ranging from the classics to new and emerging works. Their programming encourages social consciousness through Real, Open, and Objective Theater Education, celebrating the diversity of the community’s roots, present struggles, and future successes through intentional theater.

Adrian Arthur, a rising star in the world of acting, emerged onto the scene with a trajectory that speaks volumes of his talent and determination. Born with a passion for the arts, Adrian found himself drawn to the world of performance from an early age.

Discovered by none other than Tyler Perry’s esteemed Actress, Tasha Smith, Adrian’s journey into the spotlight began with a stroke of serendipity. Under her guidance, he honed his craft and showcased his innate talent, leading to an extraordinary opportunity as Tasha managed him for two pivotal years. This experience not only solidified his presence in the industry but also provided him with invaluable insights into the nuances of the entertainment business.

Adrian’s breakthrough moment came when he was cast by Leah Daniels, renowned for her discerning eye in talent scouting, for his inaugural significant role as Tupac Shakur in Lifetime’s “Surviving Compton.” His portrayal captivated audiences and critics alike, earning him widespread acclaim and establishing him as a force to be reckoned with in the realm of acting.

As Adrian Arthur continues to carve his path in the entertainment industry, audiences can expect to witness his star shine even brighter, leaving an indelible mark on the world of acting for years to come.

Skyler James Bailey (as Anger)

Skyler James Bailey is a New York City based actor. Born in The Bronx, NY.

THEATER: Lions Don’t Hug Dir. Stella Sacca (Winterfest 2020, Brooklyn Art Haus Residency 2023), Black Magic Dir. Tony Jenkins (Fringe Festival Winner 2016), Serials at The Fled Dir. Crystal Sky Williams.

WORKSHOP: BAM Residency Workshops Dir. Postell Pringle.

FILM: Uptown The Way God Intended Dir. KarynRose Bruyning (Vimeo Staff Pick 2022, Webby Award Honoree 2023), XXVisible Dir.

Bobby Yan (Best Drama Short Coney Island Film Festival 2022).

TELEVISION: Only Murders In The Building (Hulu 2024), Law & Order (Peacock 2025)

Ras Bakari Acie Murphy is excited to make his professional theatrical debut in Rooted Theatre’s Thoughts of a Colored Man at 651 Arts!! Ras most recently appeared in the indie film Once Again (For The Very First Time) directed by Boaz Yakin and can be seen in the upcoming indie film My Hero Arc directed by Keith Miller. Ras is a junior Drama student at Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art & Performing Arts.

He is also a member of LaGuardia’s Black Student Union.

A diehard Knicks fan, Ras enjoys watching basketball gaming, weight training and spending time with his family and friends..Ras lives in Ditmas Park, Brooklyn, with his parents, Tarik Murphy and Robyne Walker Murphy. He would like to thank his fellow cast members for their support, Kareem Neemly and Tramane Harris for this wonderful opportunity, Bercy Management, Stewart Talent, and his family for their love and encouragement.

Jonathan Burton is a Writer, Actor, and Director native to Brooklyn, NY. His multidisciplinary approach to storytelling brings unique life to all his creative endeavors, especially in the realm of film and live performance. Jonathan’s artistry is a dedication to his passion for Black Liberation, his Caribbean heritage, and love for the world of sci-fi. He treats every form as a conjuring, a prayer to the truth, and a ladder into the abyss; hoping to one day uncover something worth leaving behind.

Steven Strickland (Newark, NJ) is an actor, director, host & producer. With almost 3 decades of experience, this talented, charismatic and witty artist has performed in numerous theatrical productions and films. Steven has made several television appearances as well. Steven’s recent television & film appearances include NBC’s Law & Order: Organized Crime & SVU, Hulu’s Only Murders in the Building & Paramount Pictures’ Smile, and Apple TV’s limited series Lady In the Lake. With such a passion for the craft, Mr. Strickland is definitely one you need to keep your eyes on.

His motto is:

“Do What You Love. Love What You Do!” The Motto • The Mantra • The Mission

I am Maleek Rae (they/them), a proud multidisciplinary artist and the great-grandchild of Joseph Gilbert, originating from the Eastside of Detroit, MI. I delve into the intersections of ritual through theater, visual art, and cultural cultivation. My journey has led me to roles in television series like “Law & Order: Organized Crime” and “Random Acts of Flyness,” as well as performances at notable venues such as La MaMa Experimental Theatre and The Classical Theatre of Harlem. My rap debut, “Ghetto Alchemy: Vol 1,” has received exposure across various platforms. I have penned several plays, including “Love Birds: or How to Fix a Broken Heart in a Day,”

“Gutter Rituals or Guttah,” and “Lunchroom Survival Guide.” Currently, I hold the distinction of being a 2024 Gatekeeper Collective LTL Fellow, a 2023 Institute fellow with Target Margin Theatre, and a 2024 Space Grant recipient at BAX. To explore my work further, visit www.maleekrae.com.

Harvey’s theater career began in 1980. He has attended, studied and graduated from several theater companies and workshops, including Riverbank School of Acting / Theater. Harvey has received certificates of completion in Method Acting/Scene Study. He is excited and happy to be part of this production.

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