Photosynthesis: Seed to Stage

Written By Claudine Mboligikpelani Nako

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 role of Nika. 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)

the poster from Photosynthesis: Seed to Stage, a silhouette of Claudine Mboligikpelani Nako wearing a blue flower behind in her hair and looking up toward a sunbeam

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)

a group photo of the cast and crew of Photosynthesis: Seed to Stage gathered backstage

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

the characters Nika and Bernadette sing and dance a kickline in flowered dresses

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.

the character of William singing passionately as his mother lovingly looks on

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.

the characters Nika and Marvin talk as characters from Nika's memories swirl around her

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

an onstage group conversation with faith healers, mental health professionals, and artists

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

audience, artists, and panelists linger and chat in the theater after the performance

Panelists Faith Bennett (center R) and Crystal Hairston (center) converse with audience members following the September 5, 2025 performance of Photosynthesis: Seed to Stage.

Claudine Mboligikpelani Nako
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