André Johnson III, 22, has created his own path to success. At the early age of eight-years-old, he crafted his first dramatic writing with a decidedly focused theme. He wrote and then raised $1500 to self-produce his first play at the age of 12, and by age 15 he had written and performed in yet another production that resulted with him being acknowledged by local print and broadcast media as a gifted young director, playwright, singer and actor.
André is a local product of Stax Academy Charter School and the Stax Music Academy Afterschool Program. His journey carried him to Southwest Community College where his many talents (summarized by a professor as a “quadruple threat”) were recognized and encouraged. That experience led him to his current status of a junior at the University of Memphis in the Department of Theatre and Dance majoring in Theatre.
His enthusiasm and dedication to work in the theatre environment stood out as a beacon to those who believe in themselves and hard work, according to the scholarship selection committee. According to André, his future has no limits and he has proven that with his commitment to his education, creativity and family who have supported him along the way. His focus is now on completing his degree at the University of Memphis and then making his dreams come true by continuing to write.
Both the Lohrey Theatre and the Next Stage Theatre are wheelchair accessible with a handicapped accessible restroom on the same level as the main lobby to both venues. The Lohrey Theatre also provides hearing assisted equipment to any who may require or request it, at no charge.
(Next Stage is open seating)
The black box Next Stage seats up to 110 and is also wheelchair accessible with state of the art equipment for sound and lighting.