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 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, Aishé Keita, Sadiqua Iman, Michelle Lang-Raymond, and Valerie Curtis-Newton.

(Photos by David Craig - thinkingdc.com)

Claudine Mboligikpelani Nako as Nika and Be Russell as Bernadette, performing the song “Dark Times” from Photosynthesis in Photosynthesis: Seed to Stage at Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute in Seattle, WA.

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

Nako chats with audience members after a performance of Photosynthesis: Seed to Stage.