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BACKBONE at Showtime Legacy Theatre
Dates: 8/29/2026 - 8/30/2026
📍 Theatre: Showtime Legacy Theatre
Showtime Legacy Theatre
200 E. St. John St.
Spartanburg , SC 29306
Phone: 864-326-5690
Tickets: $35 - $75
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Showtime Legacy Theatre proudly kicks off our inaugural season with the PREMIERE of our original stage production, BACKBONE. Aug 29 - 30, 2026 at Chapman Cultural Center in Spartanburg, Sc. Set in Memphis, Tennessee, 1995, BACKBONE is a gripping and emotional new play about family, legacy, ownership, generational trauma, and the fight to protect what generations sacrificed to build. When developers come knocking and old wounds resurface, one family must decide what matters more: the money on the table or the legacy in their blood.Filled with heart, humor, music, and unforgettable characters, BACKBONE is a powerful reminder that some things are worth fighting for. Because when your familys name is on the foundation... LEGACY IS NOT FOR SALE. Dont miss the regional premiere of the newest original work from Showtime Legacy Theatre.
At the center of the story is Backbone Auto Shop — a once-thriving neighborhood staple now struggling beneath mounting debt, changing neighborhoods, and years of unspoken pain. Pops Bowman, the stubborn patriarch who built the shop with his bare hands, refuses to let go of the only thing that gives his life meaning. But his niece DeeDee, who has quietly carried the emotional and financial weight of the business for years, is tired of surviving in silence and determined to save the shop her own way. Meanwhile, Malik, DeeDee’s gifted and restless son, dreams of escaping Memphis to pursue a future beyond grease-stained floors and inherited struggle.
When an old apprentice turned wealthy developer returns with plans to buy the property and “modernize” the neighborhood, old wounds are ripped open. His arrival reignites unresolved grief surrounding the death of Loretta Bowman — the unseen matriarch whose spirit still lingers in the walls of the shop. As hidden family truths begin to surface, the family discovers that the legacy of Backbone may not belong to the man whose name hangs over the garage, but to the woman history tried to forget.
At the same time, the shop becomes a refuge for Tasha, a woman fleeing an abusive relationship, forcing everyone inside Backbone to confront the cycles of silence, control, and survival that have shaped their own lives. Against the backdrop of 1995 Memphis — a city wrestling with racism, economic change, and cultural displacement — the family must decide whether legacy means holding on to the past or finally telling the truth.
Blending lyrical dialogue, Southern soul, humor, heartbreak, and raw humanity, Backbone is a powerful exploration of Black ownership, generational sacrifice, identity, and the emotional cost of survival. It asks one haunting question: What happens when the very thing built to protect a family also becomes the thing keeping them trapped?
BACKBONE at Showtime Legacy Theatre Schedule
Cast and Creative Team for BACKBONE at Showtime Legacy Theatre
Cast
Deidra "Dee-Dee" Bowman
Regina Wells (Deidra Bowman) holds a BA in Theatre Arts from Furman University. In
2012 she was awarded the prestigious Theatre Arts Scholarship that made her studies
until her graduation in 2016 possible. She is honored to be a part of Backbone, the
inaugural production of Showtime Legacy Theatre. She extends her deepest thanks to
the team at Showtime Productions for trusting her with this role. Acting credits include
Fences and Doubt, a Parable (Centre Stage), Barbecue and Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom
(Market Theatre), Waiting for Burial (The Dream Box), Love, Loss, and What I Wore
(Simpsonville Art Center). For professional inquires and casting opportunities please
contact Reginawells94@hotmail.com.
Christopher Smith
Raymond "Pops: Bowman
Christopher A. Smith is the founder and CEO of The CASM Group, LLC. The CASM Group, LLC. is a Human Resources Consulting and support firm that provides customized services. Christopher received a BA in History from The University of South Carolina in 1997 and a MS in Human Resources Management from Troy University in 2006. As a senior at USC, Christopher took an acting class in the fall and was encouraged by his professor to go to the unified auditions held at the University of South Carolina for the spring theatre season. Christopher was cast for several roles but accepted major roles in George C. Wolfe’s “The Colored Muse- um” and James Baldwin’s “The Amen Corner.” After graduating from USC Chris was encouraged by his pastor, Ricky Glenn of Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church (Cayce, SC), to use drama as a means of ministry and as a result The BASIC (Brothers and Sisters in Christ) Drama Ministry was formed. From 1998 to 2001 Christopher wrote several Christian plays and performed them in front of churches and auditoriums throughout South Carolina.
Malik Bowman
David Fields aka Cool Dave was born and raised in Southern Maryland. He received a basket- ball scholarship to Southern Wesleyan University which lead him to South Carolina. From there Cool Dave got a contract to play showtime basketball with the Harlem Superstars and even got a chance to run a little with the Harlem Globetrotters. Cool Dave has always had a passion and a talent for music and after two years on the superstars tour he decided to take on a full career in music. He is now a Hip Hop artist, song writer and the official DJ and partner with Light Waves Productions. Cool Dave is also an aspiring actor who has landed his first theatrical lead role within Showtime Productions and has also been afforded the opportuni- ty to be seen on national television networks such as Oxygen Channel’s “Snapped” and TV One’s “Fatal Attraction” and “For My Man”.
Reggie Rocc
Tyrique "Rico" Johnson
Reggie Rocc is a native of Spartanburg, South Carolina. He fell in love with hip- hop at the age of 10 and was quickly drawn into the urban lifestyle. Songs about money, women, mis- fortune, God, politics, and everything else under the sun seemed so relatable to life! At age 18 he perused music not only as a fan, but as an artist. He found myself mimicking artists he idolized like Jay-Z, Nas and Scarface just to name a few. Throughout his career and personal life he has made some poor choices, which led me to the conclusion at the age of 29 he had no idea who he was. That’s when he hit rock bottom and had nothing or anyone to turn to but God. Having no idea who God was Reggie asked the Lord to reveal Himself. This led to the Holy Word and Reggie discovered my sin, and the darkness he was living in that completely separated him from God. Throughout my walk with God I have a ministry, 4 albums and a clothing apparel line and a 2 time stellar nominee. Reggie prays that his redemptive story through Christ can inspire many to seek Gods provision for their life. That’s why his motto is Rocc Bottom “Motivation Starts here, Nowhere to go but up!” This is his fifth acting role.with Showtime Productions Check out his new music release, Project Love Letter.
Sheniqua Keys
Nina Clark
Sheniqua Gambrell-Keys, a Greenville, SC native, is a professional hairstylist as well as a devoted wife and mother. As a passionate artist, she embraces the stage as a singer, model, and actress, establishing herself as a true triple threat. Sheniqua is committed to using her gifts not only to entertain but also to uplift, hoping her journey encourages others to believe in themselves and to trust God’s guidance in every step of their path.as an artist.
Joe Tucker
Silas Lawrence
Born and raised in Columbia, Joe Tucker embodies the spirit, talent, and determination of his hometown. A proud Honor Graduate of the United States Marine Corps, Joe carries the discipline, pride, and dedication forged through military service into every aspect of his life and career.
Today, he is recognized as one of the most in-demand rising electrical contractors in Soda City, earning a reputation for precision, reliability, and professionalism.
At the same time, Joe has solidified his place as one of the city’s most dynamic and legendary entertainers. As a multi-genre musical performer with decades of high-level experience, he continues to captivate audiences with unmatched energy, charisma, and commanding stage presence.
Expanding his creative reach, Joe is also making waves in theater and film. He has landed roles with WOW Productions, the Sutton Glory miniseries, and Trutus Theatre. He is also set to appear in A Taste of Black Theatre with Showtime Legacy Productions, up next headlining the city’s hottest Southern Soul Saturday experience, Joe Tucker & The Show, featuring his hit single “MO HANDS.”
Joe has had the honor of sharing the stage with acclaimed talents such as Jeffrey Lewis, Patrice Lovely, and Maurice Lauchner.
Whether in business, music, or acting, Joe Tucker brings Pride, Poise, and Dedication to every performance.
Joe Tucker doesn’t just pursue excellence — he lives it.
Frank Cioppettini
Mr. Gregory Baines
Frank cut his teeth in the acting world in film and tv and over the last two years has worked on over 30 films and tv shows. He learned the craft by directly observing some of the best actors of our generation to learn their secrets to acting success. He is very grateful to be a part of this production and to have the honor of getting to work with some of the most talented cast and crew in the Upstate.
Let me know if you think anything should be changed.
Frank
Briand Reeder
Memphis Mike
Brian has been performing professionally on stage since age 17 with companies including Warehouse Theatre, Centre Stage, Phillis Wheatley Repertory Theatre, and South Carolina Children’s Theatre. Notable roles include Mister in The Color Purple (SLT), Othello in Othello, Lola in Kinky Boots (Proud Mary Theatre), Mitch in A Streetcar Named Desire (Mill Town Players), and Carl Lee Hailey in A Time to Kill (Centre Stage). At Centre Stage, he has also appeared in Buddy, Jekyll & Hyde, Sister Act, Ghost, Through the Night, and Heart & Soul. With Warehouse Theatre’s Upstate Shakespeare Festival, he has played Touchstone (As You Like It), Nick Bottom (A Midsummer Night’s Dream), and Aaron (Titus Andronicus). He also toured with South Carolina Children’s Theatre in The Boy Who Cried Bully.
His work is marked by a fearless dedication to entertaining through bold, adventurous performances.
Anglia Perry
Loretta Bowman
A dedicated and passionate performer, Anglia Perry has been honing her craft as a student in the So You Wanna Act acting class since 2024. That same year, she earned a place among the top five in the Creatives Connect Monologue Slam with a powerful performance of Noah’s Wife.
Her on-screen experience includes a cameo appearance in Complicated Atlanta and as an extra in Abysmal written and directed by Destiny Macon. On stage, she has brought depth and presence to roles such as Aunt Ruby in Collateral Damage with Showtime Productions, and Aunt Ester in Gem of the Ocean as part of A Taste of Black Theater I.
Anglia is excited to return in A Taste of Black Theater II, where she takes on several roles, including portraying Memory-a symbolic figure who bridges past and present while carrying the weight, names, and trauma of those who of those who came before her. As well as Bernice from August Wilson's The Piano Lesson.
Anglia continues to grow as a storyteller, bringing authenticity and heart to every performance.
Thomas Cioppettini
Officer Harling
Creative Team
Johnny Sizemore
Director
Johnny Sizemore is a dynamic creative force with over a decade of experience in storytelling for the stage and screen. As co-founder of Showtime Productions and Showtime Legacy Theatre Company, Johnny is passionate about crafting bold, Black-centered narratives that speak truth, provoke conversation, and leave lasting impact.
A natural writer and visionary, Johnny’s work is deeply rooted in Southern culture, faith, and family. His ability to blend grit, poetry, and authenticity shines in Backbone, his theatrical debut — a searing new drama that anchors Showtime Legacy’s inaugural season.
Whether he's behind the pen or producing from the ground up, Johnny brings unmatched heart, hustle, and a deep commitment to telling stories that matter.
Kerrick Montonio
Playwright
Kerrick Greer is a multidisciplinary theatre artist whose work explores legacy, identity, and the rhythm of Southern Black life. As co-founder of Showtime Productions and Showtime Legacy Theatre Company, Kerrick brings over 15 years of experience as a director, playwright, and creative leader.
Known for his sharp eye, emotional depth, and instinct for authenticity, Kerrick co-wrote and directed Backbone, the company’s powerful debut production. His directing style blends cinematic nuance with stage intimacy, creating experiences that feel both grounded and electric.
Kerrick’s mission is clear: to tell the stories no one else will, in the voices they were meant to be told. He is committed to building platforms where Black artistry thrives — not just for today, but for generations to come.
Whitney Graves
Stage Manager
Whitney Graves is an emerging actor passionate about storytelling and bringing authentic characters to life. A dedicated performer, Whitney has been building her craft through acting classes with Creatives Connect. Whitney will debut her talent in Showtime Production's," A Taste of Black Theater" on August 23rd, 2025.
Driven, professional, and enthusiastic, Whitney is committed to honing her skills and taking on new opportunities to grow as a performer.
Devon Scott
Artistic Director
Devon Scott is a native of Greer, South Carolina. He began his musical journey at the age of 10 with the True Notes- alongside his Grandfather James Scott. In 2012 Devon joined the Stellar Award winning group Pure-N-Heart under the direction of Alphaeus Anderson. Devon has shared the stage with some of Gospel’s most leading artists such as; Donnie McClurkin, Dorinda Clark Cole, Kierra Sheard, Sunday best winner Tasha-Page Lockhart, Le’Andria Johnson, Todd Dulaney amongst many more. Devon is an integral part of Showtime productions, and has been since its inceptions. He servers in many capacities including vocal director and arranger, BGV, songwriter,
Meagan Jones
ASD
Meg is an accomplished actor and singer who has graced the stages of both professional and community theaters in the Upstate of South Carolina. With a BA in Theater Performance and a MA in Theatre Arts, Ms Jones has the opportunity to portray memorable roles such as Medda Larson in Disney's Newsies( MCC), Bea in Something Rotten ( MCC), Ghost of Christmas Present in A Christmas Carol (MCC) and has showcased her musical talent in several music review concerts. She is also a versatile voiceover artist who has lent her voice to animation, educational narration and audio drama. Meg is passionate about bringing stories to life through her expressive and engaging performances. Meg is grateful for the love and support of her family. (Psalms 121)
Christopher George
Operations Director
Christopher George, a native of Macon, Georgia, is a 15 year insurance and collision professional that has a deep history in the arts. Christopher is a brass instrumentalist, choir director, and writer who takes enjoyment in behind the scenes activities and execution. As Operations Director, he is an essential part of Showtime Productions, assisting with business affairs of the company, managing accounts and vendors, securing and building relationships with potential investors, and assisting with promotions and community relations. Christopher has also been singing for many years as a member and director of a few gospel groups, including Ultimate Choice, Spelman College's Genesis Community Gospel Choir and Johnny Sizemore and One Accord.
Chibille Wiggins
Production Director
TJ Hills
Tech Director
Charla Johnson
ASM
News About BACKBONE at Showtime Legacy Theatre
We have no news on this show at the current time.
About the Theatre
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Showtime Legacy Theatre Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
Where is Chapman Cultural Center located?
Chapman Cultural Center is at 200 E. St. John St. , Spartanburg, SC.
Where is Showtime Legacy Theatre located?
Showtime Legacy Theatre is at 200 E. St. John St. , Spartanburg, SC.
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