This Black History Month, we’re celebrating artists who’ve had a significant impact on our organization.
Takara Bailey made her Casa Mañana debut last August in Bonnie & Clyde, our 2021 Apprentice Program. We were constantly amazed by her talent and poise. It was such a joy to have her under the Dome!
Takara’s journey to the stage has not been a direct one.
“Being a Black woman in a predominantly white town was a struggle for me. It was hard to connect to my roots and express myself for a while because I had no representation from my community. Not at school, not on social media, not on films. I decided that the representation was going to be me.“
She began to make a way into the spotlight – she joined the cheer team, ran for Homecoming Queen and Prom Queen (and won). “To prove that little Black girls can be chunky with kinky coils AND wear a crown.”
These experiences allowed Takara to transform this sentiment into action – on stage. “I perform for that one little Black girl amongst her peers that look nothing like her. I win some, and I lose some, but every win is a win for my community. My contribution to the stage and my forever journey is representation.”
How is she celebrating this month? “I’m celebrating my community being our ancestors’ wildest dreams. They walked so we could run. Every time there is a first in the community, it makes me smile. It becomes another milestone.”
CM: What inspires you?
TB: My nephews! They both want to be paleontologists. They’re so smart.
CM: Name one artist that motivates you.
TB: Jazmine Sullivan
CM: Are there any fellow artists you want to shout out that are making moves in this space?
TB: Josh McLemore. He’s my best friend and is making tremendous moves. He is destined for greatness. I love him. I’m proud of him.
CM: What’s next?
TB: Being happy with myself as a human and an artist.
Follow along with Takara’s journey on her Instagram: @takarafaithbailey.
