Prince of the Pulpit at Ford Community and Performing Arts Center

Bishop Bruce V. Parham is a distinguished pastor, worship leader, and recording artist whose ministry has touched lives for over four decades through preaching, worship, and music. With a voice marked by both power and intimacy, he blends traditional gospel roots with contemporary expressions of worship to minister healing, hope, and inspiration. His musical catalog includes The Answer, Sing Bruce, Dwell Together, Your Presence, We Will Give You Praise, and Hide Me, each reflecting his passion for worship and devotion to God. In 2027, Bishop Parham will release a highly anticipated new album, continuing a legacy dedicated to glorifying God, equipping the saints, and leading people into His presence through music.

DeEtta West (Mama D) is an Actor, Minister, Singer, Author and a God Chaser.  She brings all of those gifts into every role that she is assigned to.  DeEtta's mission in life is to speak life into the hearts of those who cross her path. .....ONE STORY AT A TIME. God has given her the opportunity to do that through her various acting roles and her ministry assignments. She was born and raised in San Diego, California. She is a Recipient of a Gold Album where she was a featured vocalist on the soundtrack of the movie "ROCKY I."  She is the sister of the late Cleavon Little, star of stage and screen.  He is best known for his role as Sheriff Bart in the classic movie, "BLAZING SADDLES."  DeEtta has appeared in several world premiere movies, television shows and stage plays. She has graced many screens and stages such as, "Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins," "Meet the Browns-the Series," "Marry me For Christmas," "Marry Us For Christmas," "A Baby for Christmas," "Merry Christmas, Baby!" "The Chandler Christmas Getaway," "Saints & Sinners," "Greenleaf," "Kirk Franklin's: A Gospel Christmas," "Suitcase Murders," "Secrets In Plain Sight, Season 2," "Kingdom Business Seasons 1 & 2," ""Player," "Safe Word," "Joe's College Road Trip," 'Sistas," and so many more! She has many stage credits including:  "Busline 210," "A Raisin In The Sun," "The Anointing," "Purlie," "No More Drama, Please!" "Angels In Training," and more!    DeEtta is a wife, mother of 3, grandmother of 3 and a soon to be great grandmother!! She resides in Peachtree City, Georgia.

With more than 90 film and television credits, Dennis L.A. White is a seasoned actor, director, producer, and acting coach whose remarkable career reflects an unwavering commitment to the craft of storytelling.

From commanding the screen as D-Roc in the acclaimed biopic Notorious to memorable appearances in The Family Business, Atlanta, The Brave One opposite Jodie Foster, The Pass, and Kold x Windy, White has consistently demonstrated the depth, versatility, and authenticity that have made him a sought-after presence in film and television.
You can catch Dennis in the #1 movie on Starz, “They Took My Daughter” and 2 new TV series, “D.O.P.E. Unit”(Allblk) & “Love Don’t Pay The Bills”(Tubi)

DeLorean Cotton is a Detroit-born singer, actor, songwriter, vocal coach, and entrepreneur whose passion for the arts began at a young age, singing in church and discovering the power of music and performance. It was at Wayne State University, where he received his professional training in Music Education and Theater. DeLorean has gone on to grace stages around the world with his powerful voice and dynamic presence. Throughout his career, he has had the honor of singing the National Anthem for the Detroit Tigers and Detroit Pistons, while also opening up and sharing the stage and screen with prominent artists and entertainers. DeLorean is the CEO and Founder of The DeLo Experience, his own band and entertainment brand. As an actor, he has taken on leading roles, including TJ Hemphill’s long-running production Perilous Times, and Sherry Gay's "One Harlem Night, showcasing his versatility as both a vocalist and performer. When he’s not singing or acting, DeLorean can often be found doing what he loves almost as much as performing—running marathons around the world. DeLorean considers it an honor to be part of Vanessa Lynn’s Prince of the Pulpit and gives God all the glory for every opportunity, achievement, and blessing throughout his journey. His story is one of faith, perseverance, creativity, and a lifelong commitment to using his gifts to inspire others.

Marcus Woods is an award winning actor, acting coach, and founder of Out The Woods Productions. His television credits include FOX’s Empire, TV One’s Fatal Attraction, The CW’s Melanin. His film work includes leading roles in Blind Trust and Depart From It, for which he received the 2025 Detroit Filmmaker Award for Best Actor. Additional credits include The Rows, A Good Man 3, The Divorce Lawyer. Marcus is also the creator and host of Monologue Monday with Marcus Woods. He is grateful to bring Jordan Sanders to life in Prince of the Pulpit and thanks God, his family, and everyone who continues to support his journey.

Johdi was born and raised on the Westside of Detroit MI. She started singing at just 2 years old and discovered her love and passion for music and theater at the young age of 7 years old. Johdi perfected her craft everyday and pursued full time artistry after graduating from Cass Tech High School along with landing several lead roles on the theater stage along the way. She has traveled and sang BGVs for many of the Gospel, R&B, and Hip Hop greats such as Karen Clark Sheard , Eric Benet, Faith Evans, Stevie Wonder,  Big Sean, and more. She has completed a 6 week 34 city European tour. You can catch her on NPR’s Tiny Desk tour performing with Kierra Sheard and Bow Wow.  As an independent R&B artist she uses the gifts God gave her to impact hearts everywhere! She has an EP and a new single called LESS available for streaming on all Digital Streaming Platforms. 

Crystal P. is a dynamic entertainer whose talent and versatility have made her a celebrated force in comedy, theater, film, and live entertainment. Known as The C.H.A.S.E.—Comedienne, Host, Actress, Singer, and Entertainer—Crystal P. brings energy, humor, and authenticity to every stage she graces.

No stranger to Parables Entertainment, Crystal P. has showcased her acting and comedic talents in productions including Unequally Yoked, Boss Lady, Murder at Carver High, and Fakers since 2006. Her film credits include Pawn Shop, Born Cursed, Daddy I Love Him, and Romeo & Juliet: An Eastside Story.

Crystal has also had the honor of opening for some of entertainment’s most legendary artists, including Diana Ross, Steve Harvey, Stephanie Mills, Patti LaBelle, Frankie Beverly and Maze, Chaka Khan, and many more.

Voted Detroit’s New Queen of Comedy, Crystal P. continues to captivate audiences with her unmistakable personality, comedic timing, and passion for entertainment.

Tonight, she is proud to bring her talents to the stage in Prince in the Pulpit.

Joseph Phillips Jr. is an Actor and entertainer known for his work in film and theater. His credits include Right Man Wrong Woman, A Family Divided, Beat the Streets (Marcus young )and portraying teenage Judge Greg Mathis in Don't Judge Me: The Judge Mathis Story.

A cultivated heroine who pays great attention to detail and admires constructive criticism. Her training has equipped her for both the theatrical and cinematic arena, making her an ideal actress for any project.

Sean is an experienced performer with a passion for collaborative storytelling. Since beginning his journey in 2004 with Ain’t I a Woman, he has built a diverse career spanning stage, film, acting instruction, and voice-over work. His credits include A Few Good Men, Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner, and One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. He has also contributed behind the scenes as an assistant director and stage manager. A two-time winner of the “Hollywood Comes to Detroit” monologue competition (2007–2008), Sean continues to expand his craft. He is a member of several acting troupes and serves as an ordained clergyman and Assistant Pastor, while enjoying family life with his wife, Judy, and 4 grandchildren.

Chiquita Dunham-Parker is a seasoned actress with over 20 years of theatre experience and more than 10 years of film experience. Having worked on more than 50 stage and film projects combined, she is well-versed in both acting and working behind the camera. She landed her first leading role in Blind Trust. Chiquita is also the co-owner of Her Patio Productions, Detroit’s first all-Black women-owned production company. She brings professionalism, versatility, and emotional depth to every production.

Ursula Ace is a dynamic contemporary gospel artist, vocalist, songwriter, and performer whose musical journey began at the age of nine. Her artistry has been shaped by some remarkable musical influences, including learning the craft of songwriting from Carolyn Franklin, sister of the legendary Aretha Franklin, and spending a summer receiving vocal training from Motown great Kim Weston and respected vocal coach Mickey Braden. With a voice rooted in gospel and a heart committed to ministry, Ursula has developed a sound that blends faith, soul, passion, and authentic life experience. She is also the founder and lead singer of The Ace-Turner Xperience, bringing together powerful musicianship, vibrant performances, and an uplifting message.

Throughout her career, Ursula has graced stages both locally and internationally. She shared the stage with Darrin DeWitt Henson and Terrell Carter in the stage production “Why Do Good Girls Like Bad Boys?”, performed at Detroit’s historic Fox Theatre in connection with Rocket Mortgage, and served as the lead commercial singer for the Rocket Mortgage Awards. Her ministry through music has also taken her to Canada, where she performed at the Glass Awards Gospel Awards Show, as well as to numerous states across the country. Whethhttps://www.instagram.com/stylhercurvy?stkn=MTNqN2kzbzBraDU5dA==er performing on a major stage, leading worship, or sharing her own music, Ursula’s mission remains the same: to use her God-given voice to inspire, encourage, and spread the love of Christ everywhere she goes.

Amia “Mimi” Brock is an 8-year-old actress, model, author, and young entrepreneur from Detroit, Michigan. She began modeling at the age of four and has since taken her talents from the runway to film and stage. Mimi made her film debut at age five and can be seen in Love After Holidays, now streaming on BET+. Her talent and personality have also gained media attention, including recognition on The Jennifer Hudson Show and features and interviews with several television and media outlets.

In addition to acting and modeling,Mimi is a brand ambassador and the young entrepreneur behind her Mimilicious lip gloss line. Full of confidence, creativity, and personality, Mimi is excited to continue growing as an actress and entertainer while inspiring other young girls to confidently shine in their own light.

Mike Jeffers is a Detroit based actor, writer, director, and producer whose passion for storytelling extends both in front of and behind the camera. As an actor, Mike has appeared in independent films such as Daddy I Love Him, Bad Day, When the Smoke Clears, and You Toxic. His work can be seen on streaming platforms including Tubi, and Amazon Prime.

He continues to expand his acting career, while creating stories that entertain, inspire, and connect with audiences.

Ms. Deborah Chenault-Green spans twenty years, in film, television, stage, commercials, voiceovers and print work. She is known for her performances, as Aunt Lacey, on the hit Comedy Central Series, Detroiters. Where she plays opposite, Saturday Night Live’s, Tim Robinson and Veep’s, Sam Richardson. Ms. Chenault-Green has also appeared in such productions as, “Block Party,” alongside such notable actors as, “The Color Purple’s,” Margaret Avery, “Coming 2 America,s,” Luenell and last but not least, the legendary star of the tv show, “Good Times,” the late great, John Amos. In 2025 Deborah went International, when she starred in the award winning, multi-national film, “Quase Deserto” or in other words, “Almost Deserted.” Here she played opposite, “Superman’s,” Angela Sarafyan, “27 Night’s,” Daniel Hendler and “Rio de Sangue’s,” Vinicius de Oliveira. Directed by the award winning, Jose Eduardo Belmonte. Quase Deserto, is now streaming on all major platforms in  Brazil. 
 

A Detroit native, Ms. Chenault-Green’s inspiring life journey has fueled her passion for encouraging and uplifting audiences, through her performances in film, stage, commercials and voiceovers. Her dedication to the arts, her faith and community, continues to make her an impactful,  much respected, and well sought after presence in the Entertainment Industry. Deborah has received awards for, “One Of The Most Influential African American Women In Metropolitan Detroit,” from WIN (Women’s Informal Network and also for her, “Outstanding Achievements In The Independent Film Industry,” from the Detroit Black Film Festival. Continue to follow her career, there’s more to come.

Ayana Jewel is a 16-year-old professional actress with more than a decade of experience in film, television, and theatre. She began her professional acting career at age five and has continued to build an impressive body of work. Her recent credits include the film Bad Day, television series Southwest High, and stage production I Love You and My Husband, with some additional film and television projects currently in post-production. A dedicated and versatile performer, Ayana brings depth, authenticity, and a strong commitment to every role she takes on. In addition to acting, she is a trained dancer with experience in hip hop, ballet, tap, jazz, and tumbling, further expanding her versatility as a performer.

Richard A. Bass, a Detroit native, is a filmmaker, playwright, producer, and founder of Chosen One Productions LLC. His passion for storytelling was born during his time at Ferris State University, where he co-created his first stage play, You Ain’t No Different, in 2001.

Inspired by acclaimed storytellers such as David E. Talbert and Tyler Perry, Richard founded Chosen One Productions in 2011 with a vision to create powerful, positive entertainment for the stage and screen. Since then, he has produced numerous theatrical and film projects, including Entangled, Out of Bounds, His Story Our Reality, Chocolate Kiss, Intimate Betrayals, and Daddy I Love Him.

Through his work, Richard remains committed to developing talent, telling compelling stories, and creating productions that entertain, inspire, and leave a lasting impact.

Mike Jeffers is a Detroit-based actor, writer, director, and producer with a passion for bringing authentic, emotionally driven stories to life. With experience both in front of and behind the camera, Mike brings a filmmaker’s perspective and natural presence to every role. His work spans independent film and television, including projects streaming on Tubi and Amazon Prime. Dedicated to storytelling that connects with audiences, Mike continues to expand his body of work as both an actor and director. 

Cherrise Eliz is a dynamic director, actor, dancer, choreographer, and creative visionary committed to bringing powerful stories to life. For more than a decade, she has served as Chief Wardrobe Stylist with Parable’s Entertainment. She previously served as Manager and Choir Director with the renowned Detroit Mass Choir. Her performance credits include I Need a Man, Listen to the Silence, and Dear Future Husband. A nationally ranked cheer coach for more than 30 years, Cherrise has earned numerous championships and accolades. In recognition of her community service through Detroit PAL, she received the 2024 Spirit of Detroit Award.

Evan McCutchen is a seasoned musician, musical leader, and passionate advocate for the transformative power of music. With more than 20 years of experience as a musician, Evan brings a wealth of artistry, technical expertise, and leadership to the stage.

Originally serving as Band Leader, Evan now lends his talents to this production as Music Supervisor, overseeing the musical elements that help shape and elevate the storytelling experience. A skilled trumpet player and wind instrumentalist, Evan has also performed as a member of the Pit Orchestra, giving him a well-rounded perspective on both the performance and production sides of musical theater.

In 2025, Evan became a member of Parables Entertainment, where he continues to grow as a creative professional and contribute his musical gifts to the performing arts.

Outside of the theater, Evan has been a devoted member of The Whole Truth COGIC in Detroit, Michigan, for 30 years and music director of multiple ministries within the metro Detroit area. His faith remains a foundational part of his life.

Evan is grateful for every opportunity to use his gifts to support meaningful storytelling, inspire others, and create memorable experiences through music.

His guiding scripture is Colossians 3:15: “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called; and be ye thankful.”

Teresa Creggett-Moore is a Detroit native, podcaster, actor, freelance stage manager, artist assistant, host, and COVID Compliance Officer with extensive experience in the entertainment and production industry.

Nikki G. is a singer, podcast host, and community leader with a lifelong love for music. She believes music has the power to encourage, inspire, and bring people together. She is excited to bring her voice and energy to the stage as a background singer lead in this amazing production. When she is not singing, Nikki G. serves her community through nonprofit leadership and is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work at Howard University.

Rashida LaShawn, professionally known as The Glam Doctor, is a celebrity makeup artist, beauty educator, creative director, and entrepreneur with 25 years of industry experience. Her diverse portfolio includes luxury bridal beauty, television, film, theatrical productions, corporate events, red-carpet appearances, editorial shoots, male grooming, and media work. A monthly beauty contributor for FOX 2 Detroit, Rashida has also been featured in Mastercard’s national “Strivers” campaign celebrating influential Black women entrepreneurs.

As the founder of The Glam Doctor LLC, Rashida leads a talented team of beauty professionals while mentoring emerging artists and creating transformative experiences for women and girls. Through her signature message, “Be Beautiful. Be Well. Be Whole.,” she uses beauty as a vehicle to build confidence, encourage self-love, and make a meaningful impact in her community.

Lynnette Patrick is a native Detroiter who have been an extension specialist since 1988, creating techniques that are still used today and years to come. Lynnette also is an actress who has been in the business since ""94. Bringing her experience behind the stage has come to be her greatest accomplishment yet.

LaKeisha “Nikki” Sandifer has been with Parables Entertainment for over 15 years, appearing in Vanessa Lynn’s hit stage play “Boss Lady”, and providing background vocals for “Unequally Yoked” and “Affairs”. She also performed in several Taiju’Bo Productions for over 20 years. She’s a faithful member of her church choir and loves to sing. When not on stage, she enjoys traveling and sharing life with her husband, children, grandchildren, family, and friends.

Rose Gates

Actress | Director | Fashion & Prop Specialist | Stage Manager

Rose Gates is a multifaceted creative professional with 18 years of experience in the entertainment industry, bringing passion, creativity, and professionalism to every production she is a part of. Although her experience extends into the world of film and movies, the majority of her career has been dedicated to theatre, where she has developed a diverse range of skills both onstage and behind the scenes.

Throughout her career, Rose has had the opportunity to work alongside an array of talented writers, directors, and producers, including Shelia Finn, T.J. Hemphill, Richard Bass, Melissa Talbot, Mula Films, and Vanessa Lynn. These collaborations have helped shape her experience, expand her creative perspective, and strengthen her commitment to storytelling and the performing arts.

Rose brings a strong work ethic, an eye for detail, creativity, and a genuine love for the craft. Whether she is developing a character, managing a stage, creating a visual concept, selecting wardrobe and props, or helping guide a production, she approaches each opportunity with dedication and purpose.

Her journey in entertainment continues—driven by creativity, collaboration, and a passion for bringing stories to life.

Contact
Email: gates_rose@gmail.com
Instagram: @Roseybee408
Facebook: Rose Gates

Stacey Shannon Johnson is a playwright, screenwriter, and podcaster. She retired from law enforcement and began writing and producing plays shortly afterward. She has written and produced plays on subject matter such as human trafficking (A Dream Deferred) , Alzheimer's (Who Are You?), and juvenile delinquency (Spare the Rod). Her Podcast Global Impact with Stacey J has a platform that intends to educate and globally impact her audience while spotlighting vital issues. She earned a BA degree in Criminal Justice from Concordia University Wisconsin. She also serves as a parent coach and facilitates a parent club with the Detroit Public Schools Community District.