VISION STATEMENT
We envision a future where Black storytelling and artistry are integral to the cultural fabric of Indiana. We celebrate the courage, creativity, and resilience of Black artists who bring these narratives to life, while we connect, inspire, and elevate them in their craft. As Indiana’s premier cultural icon, the Indianapolis Black Theater Company (IBTC) is dedicated to enriching lives through transformative performances, meaningful collaborations, and empowering the community for generations to come.

AshLee Baskin

Austin Hookfin

Cara Wilson

Chandra Lynch

Clarissa Todd

D’yshe Mansfield

Jamaal McCray

Kelli Thomas

Nakia Robinson

Reno Moore

Sean Blake

Temara Payton

Teresa Reynolds

Trent Hawthorne-Richards

Xavier Jones

AshLee Baskin
AshLee “PsyWrn Simone” Baskin (pronounced Sī-ren Si-mōn) is an Indianapolis, IN based multi-hyphenate Performing Artist and Arts Advocate/Educator. Known primarily for artistically rich musical collaborations with bands, collectives, and prominent musicians in the city and beyond, she is gaining increasing visibility as she expands her artistic prowess to include theatre and other creative disciplines. As an Arts Educator, she serves as the Associate Artistic Director for the Asante Art Institute of Indianapolis. As an Arts Advocate, she serves on the Board of Directors for the Inspire Music Collective. She is a excited to be a Founding Member of the Indianapolis Black Theater Company in the work of amplifying and celebrating the impact of the voice, reach, presence of stories and creative works of those often relegated to the margins, and the opportunity to grow in the craft!

Austin Hookfin
Austin "Hook" Hookfin is a versatile actor, singer, and event host with a passion for performance. He is an Encore Award winner and a Broadway World Indianapolis nominee, recognized for his powerful portrayal of Crooks in Of Mice and Men at Westfield Playhouse and his dynamic performance as Tom Collins in RENT at Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre.As an event host, Hook is a proud MC with extensive experience, having hosted a variety of events for Washington Township Public Schools, Ball State University, and Purdue University. His energy and charm make him a sought-after personality for any occasion.Outside of his professional work, Hook is an avid karaoke enthusiast, knowing spots to sing for every night of the week and loving a space where even the shyest people can shine. He is also a passionate gamer, enjoying everything from video games to board games, and exploring the imaginative realms of Dungeons and Dragons.

Cara Wilson

Chandra Lynch
Chandra is an actor, photographer & artist. Recent credits include,Blackademics by Idris Goodwin & TJ Loves Sally 4 Ever by James Ijames at Fonseca Theatre, Panther Women: An Army for the Liberation by India Nicole Burton at Phoenix Theatre & So You're Soulless? Well, I'll Be Damned by Jamaal McCray produced by Ankh Productions(ankhproductions.org & @ankhproductions on Instagram), which Chandra founded & serves as the photographer, actor, creative director & graphic designer; along with her business partner, Jamaal McCray who serves as the director, writer, actor & chief artistic director.

Clarissa Todd
Clarissa Todd is a Black multi-hyphenate performer based in Indianapolis, With a passion for telling powerful, authentic stories. She brings a unique blend of performance skills to the stage, from acting and singing to dancing and writing. Clarissa is currently a teaching artist at the Asante arts institute right where she began her theater training at the age of 15 under Deborah Asante. Recent credits include Dussie Mae in Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, Jaida Hall in Mission Control at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis and Landonia Brown in promised land as proving ground at Conner Prairie. Clarissa is committed to amplifying Black voices and creating work that challenges, entertains, and connects.

D’yshe Mansfield
D’yshe Mansfield is an Indianapolis based multi-hyphenate singer-songwriter, actress, and Director. As a graduate of New York City’s American Musical and Dramatic Academy and a current Theatre, Television, and Film student at Indiana University Indianapolis, Mansfield continues to leave her mark on the world of theatre one show at a time. Her recent works include Lydia R. Diamond’s “Toni Stone”, David Lamb’s “Platanos y Collard Greens”, and Naptown African American Theatre Collective’s “Detroit 67” in which she was nominated for Best Director by Broadway World. She is thrilled to join IBTC as a founding company member.

Jamaal McCray

Kelli Thomas
Kelli Thomas is a dedicated community leader and theatre advocate. She is an alumnus of the University of Indianapolis's Department of Theatre. Her most recent acting credits include:FLEX(Summit Performance), Julius Caesar(Indianapolis Shakespeare Company), So You’re Soulless (Ankh Productions), and Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind(Uindy Theatre Company, seen at Indy Fringe Festival). She has also worked in other areas of theatre as an Assistant Stage Manager, Technical manager, and Stagehand. When she isn’t on stage or behind the scenes, she works in non-profit management and youth services. “Act well your part, there all honor lies” - Alexander Pope

Nakia Robinson
Jasmine Nikia Robinson, known as empressnikia, is a rising actress, vocalist, flautist, and lyricist based in Indianapolis. She began her professional career in 2023 with "Str8 Up Frederick Douglass" in collaboration with the Asante Art Institute and the Indiana State Museum. Since then, she has grown as an artist through her work as a teaching artist and her role in "A Touch of Glory" in February 2024. Nikia has performed as a flautist at venues like the Artsgarden, Indiana State Museum, Mouse Trap, and Jazz Kitchen. She is a proud founding member of the Indianapolis Black Theatre Company. Nikia aspires to inspire and illuminate audiences through her spirited performances.

Reno Moore
Reno Moore, a strong believer in the power of intentional art, is an actor and performer based here in Indianapolis. After Graduating with his BFA in Musical Theater from AMDA College & Conservatory he has gone on to be in several shows and performances across the country. Since being back in Nap he's been in productions of Footloose, The Wild Party, Legally Blonde, and Toni Stone to name a few. SInging is also a passion of his and he was recently able to perform vocally with Finesteins & Hotel Carmecheil in their ABBA Tribute show. w He enjoys Rock n Roll, Physical activity, Rib Tips, and Gaming with his friends. He hopes to bring His talent and Drive to IBTC and become a great addition to their ranks! Reach out to him @thech1pskylark on Insta and Reno Moore on Facebook.

Sean Blake
Sean Blake a native of Chicago is happy to be a part of the IBTC. Television and film credits include Fox TV,'s Empire, NBC Chicago PD, Netflix's Mixtape, Feature film The Christmas Pitch and Just Visiting.Broadway and National Tour credits include Hal Prince's Showboat. Regional credits include, The Goodman Theatre, Indiana Repertory Theatre, The Kennedy Center, The Court Theatre, Pasadena Playhouse, Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, Baltimore Center Stage and many many more. Sean can be heard on the original cast recording of Stephen Sondheim and Hal Prince's BOUNCE. Sean is the recipient of 5 time Joseph Jefferson nominee as well as a 2 time Black Theater Alliance Award nominee in Chicago. He is also a 3Arts Award nominee. Sean is a member of Actors Equity and SAG. Sean is represented by Gray Talent in Chicago, NY. and LA.

Temara Payton
Temara Payton, affectionately known as “T” is an accomplished actor, host, and on-air personality hailing from the dynamic city of Indianapolis, IN. A proud holder of a BA in Theatre from Ball State University, Temara's passion for the performing arts shines through her diverse range of credits. Her impressive portfolio spans short films, feature films, national commercial ads, print campaigns, and network television appearances. As the Fashion and Beauty Correspondent for WISH TV 8, Temara brings her expertise and charisma to the screen with her popular segment, "The Beauty Beat with T." Her insights and tips have made her a beloved figure in the world of fashion and beauty.In addition to her on-screen endeavors, Temara is a dedicated resident actor for the Indianapolis Black Theatre Company. Her presence on the red carpet as a host is equally impactful, whereshe effortlessly engages with celebrities and guests, making every event a memorable experience. Temara Payton's vibrant energy and multifaceted talent make her a standout personality in theentertainment industry. Her commitment to her craft and her community continues to inspire andentertain audiences far and wide.

Teresa Reynolds
Teresa Reynolds is a director, producer, actor, singer, bandleader, and voiceover artist. After earning a degree in acting from Ball State University, she moved from Indiana to NYC, and was soon cast in Platanos y Collard Greens, which became the longest running Off-Broadway show starring a minority cast. She then started a women-led theatre production company, and began producing and directing new and existing works. After being immersed in the NYC theatre scene for many years, she turned her attention to music, and toured the world singing backup for Gloria Gaynor of "I Will Survive" fame, collaborated with artist David Ippolito, who the New York Times called “the most famous person you’ve never heard of” singing in concerts and in front of thousands weekly in Central Park, and wrote and recorded two solo albums. Her original music spans genres: an eclectic mix of pop R&B, jazz, disco, and soul, with a focus on engaging lyricism. In 2018, she came back to Indianapolis to join the thriving arts community and created her band, Teresa Reynolds and the Slicktones. After focusing on music for more than a decade, Teresa returned to her love of theatre and joined the Indianapolis Black Theater Company as a director in residence, and revisited Platanos y Collard Greens as director and co-producer.You can find more and see where you can catch Teresa next at https://linktr.ee/teresareynolds

Trent Hawthorne-Richards
Trent K. Hawthorne-Richards, also known professionally as Trent K. Haw-Rich or TKHR, is a a multi-hyphenate creator and entrepreneur fromIndianapolis, Indiana. He has a list of credits that extend over 20 productions in film, theatre and new media. Hawthorne-Richards hasreceived training from such places as IUPUI,Jim Dougherty’s Actors Academy, and Second City: Chicago, getting his start with the now-closedIndy Apollo Theatre through Demarco Plays & Ivy League Productions.

Xavier Jones
Xavier Jones is an aspiring actor born and raised on the east side of Indy. He’s portrayed roles in stage productions of 12 AngryMen, Dracula, Romeo in Romeo and Juliet, and most recently Levee in Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom. The ultimate goal out of thiswhole experience is to collaborate on fun and meaningful work with people who have similar backgrounds such as himself.

AshLee Baskin

Austin Hookfin

Cara Wilson

Chandra Lynch

Clarissa Todd

D’yshe Mansfield

Jamaal McCray

Kelli Thomas

Nakia Robinson

Reno Moore

Sean Blake

Temara Payton

Teresa Reynolds

Trent Hawthorne-Richards

Xavier Jones

AshLee Baskin
AshLee “PsyWrn Simone” Baskin (pronounced Sī-ren Si-mōn) is an Indianapolis, IN based multi-hyphenate Performing Artist and Arts Advocate/Educator. Known primarily for artistically rich musical collaborations with bands, collectives, and prominent musicians in the city and beyond, she is gaining increasing visibility as she expands her artistic prowess to include theatre and other creative disciplines. As an Arts Educator, she serves as the Associate Artistic Director for the Asante Art Institute of Indianapolis. As an Arts Advocate, she serves on the Board of Directors for the Inspire Music Collective. She is a excited to be a Founding Member of the Indianapolis Black Theater Company in the work of amplifying and celebrating the impact of the voice, reach, presence of stories and creative works of those often relegated to the margins, and the opportunity to grow in the craft!

Austin Hookfin
Austin "Hook" Hookfin is a versatile actor, singer, and event host with a passion for performance. He is an Encore Award winner and a Broadway World Indianapolis nominee, recognized for his powerful portrayal of Crooks in Of Mice and Men at Westfield Playhouse and his dynamic performance as Tom Collins in RENT at Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre.As an event host, Hook is a proud MC with extensive experience, having hosted a variety of events for Washington Township Public Schools, Ball State University, and Purdue University. His energy and charm make him a sought-after personality for any occasion.Outside of his professional work, Hook is an avid karaoke enthusiast, knowing spots to sing for every night of the week and loving a space where even the shyest people can shine. He is also a passionate gamer, enjoying everything from video games to board games, and exploring the imaginative realms of Dungeons and Dragons.

Cara Wilson

Chandra Lynch
Chandra is an actor, photographer & artist. Recent credits include,Blackademics by Idris Goodwin & TJ Loves Sally 4 Ever by James Ijames at Fonseca Theatre, Panther Women: An Army for the Liberation by India Nicole Burton at Phoenix Theatre & So You're Soulless? Well, I'll Be Damned by Jamaal McCray produced by Ankh Productions(ankhproductions.org & @ankhproductions on Instagram), which Chandra founded & serves as the photographer, actor, creative director & graphic designer; along with her business partner, Jamaal McCray who serves as the director, writer, actor & chief artistic director.

Clarissa Todd
Clarissa Todd is a Black multi-hyphenate performer based in Indianapolis, With a passion for telling powerful, authentic stories. She brings a unique blend of performance skills to the stage, from acting and singing to dancing and writing. Clarissa is currently a teaching artist at the Asante arts institute right where she began her theater training at the age of 15 under Deborah Asante. Recent credits include Dussie Mae in Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, Jaida Hall in Mission Control at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis and Landonia Brown in promised land as proving ground at Conner Prairie. Clarissa is committed to amplifying Black voices and creating work that challenges, entertains, and connects.

D’yshe Mansfield
D’yshe Mansfield is an Indianapolis based multi-hyphenate singer-songwriter, actress, and Director. As a graduate of New York City’s American Musical and Dramatic Academy and a current Theatre, Television, and Film student at Indiana University Indianapolis, Mansfield continues to leave her mark on the world of theatre one show at a time. Her recent works include Lydia R. Diamond’s “Toni Stone”, David Lamb’s “Platanos y Collard Greens”, and Naptown African American Theatre Collective’s “Detroit 67” in which she was nominated for Best Director by Broadway World. She is thrilled to join IBTC as a founding company member.

Jamaal McCray

Kelli Thomas
Kelli Thomas is a dedicated community leader and theatre advocate. She is an alumnus of the University of Indianapolis's Department of Theatre. Her most recent acting credits include:FLEX(Summit Performance), Julius Caesar(Indianapolis Shakespeare Company), So You’re Soulless (Ankh Productions), and Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind(Uindy Theatre Company, seen at Indy Fringe Festival). She has also worked in other areas of theatre as an Assistant Stage Manager, Technical manager, and Stagehand. When she isn’t on stage or behind the scenes, she works in non-profit management and youth services. “Act well your part, there all honor lies” - Alexander Pope

Nakia Robinson
Jasmine Nikia Robinson, known as empressnikia, is a rising actress, vocalist, flautist, and lyricist based in Indianapolis. She began her professional career in 2023 with "Str8 Up Frederick Douglass" in collaboration with the Asante Art Institute and the Indiana State Museum. Since then, she has grown as an artist through her work as a teaching artist and her role in "A Touch of Glory" in February 2024. Nikia has performed as a flautist at venues like the Artsgarden, Indiana State Museum, Mouse Trap, and Jazz Kitchen. She is a proud founding member of the Indianapolis Black Theatre Company. Nikia aspires to inspire and illuminate audiences through her spirited performances.

Reno Moore
Reno Moore, a strong believer in the power of intentional art, is an actor and performer based here in Indianapolis. After Graduating with his BFA in Musical Theater from AMDA College & Conservatory he has gone on to be in several shows and performances across the country. Since being back in Nap he's been in productions of Footloose, The Wild Party, Legally Blonde, and Toni Stone to name a few. SInging is also a passion of his and he was recently able to perform vocally with Finesteins & Hotel Carmecheil in their ABBA Tribute show. w He enjoys Rock n Roll, Physical activity, Rib Tips, and Gaming with his friends. He hopes to bring His talent and Drive to IBTC and become a great addition to their ranks! Reach out to him @thech1pskylark on Insta and Reno Moore on Facebook.

Sean Blake
Sean Blake a native of Chicago is happy to be a part of the IBTC. Television and film credits include Fox TV,'s Empire, NBC Chicago PD, Netflix's Mixtape, Feature film The Christmas Pitch and Just Visiting.Broadway and National Tour credits include Hal Prince's Showboat. Regional credits include, The Goodman Theatre, Indiana Repertory Theatre, The Kennedy Center, The Court Theatre, Pasadena Playhouse, Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, Baltimore Center Stage and many many more. Sean can be heard on the original cast recording of Stephen Sondheim and Hal Prince's BOUNCE. Sean is the recipient of 5 time Joseph Jefferson nominee as well as a 2 time Black Theater Alliance Award nominee in Chicago. He is also a 3Arts Award nominee. Sean is a member of Actors Equity and SAG. Sean is represented by Gray Talent in Chicago, NY. and LA.

Temara Payton
Temara Payton, affectionately known as “T” is an accomplished actor, host, and on-air personality hailing from the dynamic city of Indianapolis, IN. A proud holder of a BA in Theatre from Ball State University, Temara's passion for the performing arts shines through her diverse range of credits. Her impressive portfolio spans short films, feature films, national commercial ads, print campaigns, and network television appearances. As the Fashion and Beauty Correspondent for WISH TV 8, Temara brings her expertise and charisma to the screen with her popular segment, "The Beauty Beat with T." Her insights and tips have made her a beloved figure in the world of fashion and beauty.In addition to her on-screen endeavors, Temara is a dedicated resident actor for the Indianapolis Black Theatre Company. Her presence on the red carpet as a host is equally impactful, whereshe effortlessly engages with celebrities and guests, making every event a memorable experience. Temara Payton's vibrant energy and multifaceted talent make her a standout personality in theentertainment industry. Her commitment to her craft and her community continues to inspire andentertain audiences far and wide.

Teresa Reynolds
Teresa Reynolds is a director, producer, actor, singer, bandleader, and voiceover artist. After earning a degree in acting from Ball State University, she moved from Indiana to NYC, and was soon cast in Platanos y Collard Greens, which became the longest running Off-Broadway show starring a minority cast. She then started a women-led theatre production company, and began producing and directing new and existing works. After being immersed in the NYC theatre scene for many years, she turned her attention to music, and toured the world singing backup for Gloria Gaynor of "I Will Survive" fame, collaborated with artist David Ippolito, who the New York Times called “the most famous person you’ve never heard of” singing in concerts and in front of thousands weekly in Central Park, and wrote and recorded two solo albums. Her original music spans genres: an eclectic mix of pop R&B, jazz, disco, and soul, with a focus on engaging lyricism. In 2018, she came back to Indianapolis to join the thriving arts community and created her band, Teresa Reynolds and the Slicktones. After focusing on music for more than a decade, Teresa returned to her love of theatre and joined the Indianapolis Black Theater Company as a director in residence, and revisited Platanos y Collard Greens as director and co-producer.You can find more and see where you can catch Teresa next at https://linktr.ee/teresareynolds

Trent Hawthorne-Richards
Trent K. Hawthorne-Richards, also known professionally as Trent K. Haw-Rich or TKHR, is a a multi-hyphenate creator and entrepreneur fromIndianapolis, Indiana. He has a list of credits that extend over 20 productions in film, theatre and new media. Hawthorne-Richards hasreceived training from such places as IUPUI,Jim Dougherty’s Actors Academy, and Second City: Chicago, getting his start with the now-closedIndy Apollo Theatre through Demarco Plays & Ivy League Productions.

Xavier Jones
Xavier Jones is an aspiring actor born and raised on the east side of Indy. He’s portrayed roles in stage productions of 12 AngryMen, Dracula, Romeo in Romeo and Juliet, and most recently Levee in Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom. The ultimate goal out of thiswhole experience is to collaborate on fun and meaningful work with people who have similar backgrounds such as himself.