Photosynthesis: Seed to Stage
Claudine Mboligikpelani Nako earned a 4Culture grant to produce Photosynthesis: Seed to Stage with Gaisma Theatre Group at Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute, September 5-7, 2025. In addition to producing and directing this showcase of songs and scenes from Photosynthesis, Nako performed the lead role. Actors Be Russell, Arlando Smith, Brandi Birdsong, Isaiah Banks, and Tarquinn White rounded out the on stage ensemble.
(Poster by Badi M. Tolo - badimtbusiness@gmail.com)
This unique event included conversations with the playwright, community leaders, and mental health professionals about the themes of the play. Guest panelists included Faith Bennett, Dr. J. Mauricio Ramirez, Crystal Hairston, Melany Bell, Aishé Keita, Sadiqua Iman, Michelle Lang-Raymond, and Valerie Curtis-Newton.
(Photos by David Craig - thinkingdc.com)
The performers and production team of Photosynthesis: Seed to Stage.
Standing L to R: Dave Pascal, Aishé Keita, Arlando Smith, Claudine Mboligikpelani Nako, Pauls Macs, Rebecca Smith, Kelly Paletta, Isaiah Banks, Be Russell, Nick Edwards; Kneeling L to R: Tarquinn White, Ayana Uriu, Brandi Birdsong
Nika (Claudine Mboligikpelani Nako) and Bernadette (Be Russell), sing “Dark Times” from Photosynthesis in Photosynthesis: Seed to Stage at Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute in Seattle, WA.
William (Isaiah Banks) sings his heart out as mom Jo (Be Russell) looks on in the number “Eight Dollars” from Photosynthesis in Photosynthesis: Seed to Stage at Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute in Seattle, WA.
During the song “Rearview Mirror” from Photosynthesis, Nika’s busy mind to life in a surprising way when a therapist, archery instructor, mechanic, and Crossfit trainer show up and force her to reflect on the direction she’s headed.
L to R: Isaiah Banks, Claudine Mboligikpelani Nako, Brandi Birdsong, Arlando Smith, Be Russell
Artist and healer Sadiqua Iman speaks during the panel conversation on mental health and burnout as part of the event Photosynthesis: Seed to Stage on September 6, 2025.
L to R: Pauls Macs, Dr. J. Mauricio Ramirez, Sadiqua Iman, Claudine Mboligikpelani Nako
Panelists Faith Bennett (center R) and Crystal Hairston (center) converse with audience members following the September 5, 2025 performance of Photosynthesis: Seed to Stage.
