Tiffany Mann, Kyle Taylor Parker, & David Rowen Lead JOYFUL, JOYFUL Remake for Social Change

By: Nov. 13, 2016
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David Rowen, producer of YouTube series davidrowen/creative, assembled a diverse group of Broadway/theatre performers to remake and put a spin on the classic gospel medley, "Joyful, Joyful," from the Whoopi Goldberg and Lauryn Hill film, Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit. The video is the creative element of a larger project to promote positive social change, and to raise awareness and charity for Teen and Police Service (TAPS) Academy, which is a program that connects at-risk youth and law enforcement to build trust and understanding between the two groups.

This music video has been released at a prime moment in history as our nation is experiencing division and turmoil. Rowen hopes that this video will stimulate joy, and bring hope to all who watch and listen. "Art is a powerful aid in times of triumph and strife," says Rowen, "And I know many people, including myself, can use a little dose of joy right now."

TAPS Academy Co-Founder, Dr. Everette B. Penn, says, "The tension between law enforcement and youth, especially minority youth, is prevalent in the headlines. TAPS Academy hears their cry for justice and legitimacy. In addition, we are proud of the brave men and women who wear the uniform and answer the call for help." The program seeks to alleviate the tension and fight against stereotypes on both sides through meaningful discussion, leading to safer, more unified communities.

The cast is led by Tiffany Mann (Invisible Thread, Sweeny Todd with the NY Philharmonic), Kyle Taylor Parker (Kinky Boots), David Rowen (Diner), and Melissa Victor (Jelly's Last Jam).

They are joined by Shaunice Alexander, Carly Hueston Amburn, Elise Arndt, Katrina Asmar, Jordan Beall, Sean Burns (Peter Pan 360), Tyla Collier, Parker Drown, Denzel Edmondson, S. Lewis Feemster, Angela Joy, Nick Lehan (Peter and the Starcatcher), Bridget Linsenmeyer, Michael J. Mainwaring, Kristen Martin (Wicked), David Julian Melendez (Ghost), Sarah Montana, Kaitlin Nelson, Jake Odmark (Kinky Boots), Kristen Faith Oei (Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark), Jason Phillips, Dayna Quincy (The Color Purple), Casey Renee Rogers (Catch Me If You Can), Shayla Simmons, Maria Cristina Slye (The Bodyguard), Nickolas Vaughan, Laurie Veldheer (Mamma Mia!), Alan Wiggins (Beautiful: The Carole King Musical), Brittany N. Williams, and Paul Williams.

The video was produced and directed by Rowen, co-directed/edited by James Gardiner, choreographed by Christen Svingos, and filmed by Chiet Productions.

Check it out below!


Keep up with davidrowen/creative by subscribing on YouTube, and following on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. To learn more about TAPS Academy, and to donate, visit tapsacademy.org.



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