"Essence Of Life Drama Ministries"

 Essence of Life Drama Ministries, Cast Biographies

Shirl M. Blackwell-Lewis (Founder, Writer, Producer, Actress & Director) resides in Appomattox, VA., with her talented and loving husband, Jesse Lewis, Jr.  Mr. Lewis is the Technical Producer and Editor of Appomattox, VA., Essence of Life Drama Ministries, (EOLDM).

Togher Jessie and Shirl Lewis are the proud parents of two daughters, two sons, and a God Sent Daughter Faith Holloway, Manager of EOLDM. They are also blessed with 5-grandchildren , 5-stepgrands, and two great-grand daughers. Shirl Lewis ia a dedicated member of Galilee Baptist Church, Appomattox, VA.  24522, and her Pastor is Reverend Preston Little. 

Shirl started axting with Kitsap County Drama Troupe and starred as Dorothy in the Wiz, Pearlie Victoria and Queenie in Showboat.  She started writing plays in 1988, (in Bremerton, WA.) out of the pain she saw among women of every hue. Her first production was written for Black History, highlighted the need for unity between Sisters of every creed.  The drama promoted healing; with a special emphasis that Love Has No Color.

Personal Testimony:  During Watch Night Prayer, at The Rock Church, (Virginia Beach, VA.) in 2001, Shirl was commissioned to join the existing ministries, by assisting them by preaching (The Gospel) God’s word, through real life dramatic dialogue. Why? Because the “harvest is great, the laborers are few… and this generation that we are living in is visual, technical…” This is where Essence of Life Drama Ministries (& Company) was conceived. As the scripter, director and actress, she is aware that this vision can not come to fruition without the dedicated cast (The Essence Ensemble), that God faithfully sends to present his Word through these productions. She started with dinner theatre fundraisers at her local church “Zoe Community Church” under her Pastors, Raymond and Betty Johnson. In 2002, Essence of Life Drama Ministries & Co, begin to minister to the community. It is also a blessing to meet the wonderful people God sends into my life. In these final hours, I sincerely ask for the Prayers of the Saints, that God will continue to mold me (us) into his instrument and complete his purpose/destinyfor our lives. Before it is too late…Let the Redeemed of the Lord say so and man shall not live by bread alone, but every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God!

         Sam Dobie Jr. (Actor & Staging Manager)

Sam Dobie, Jr. is married to Kamesha Dobie and the son of Shirley and Sam Dobie of Petersburg, VA Sam is a 1997 graduate of Petersburg High. He is presently working at Northrop Grumman Newport News as a Machinist Instructor. He is a member of Third Baptist Church in Petersburg, VA. He is the proud father of a three beautiful children. Sam has a passion for acting and has starred in several Essence of Life productions where he has been a faithful member since 2002. Sam’s motto is “He can do all things through Christ who strengthen him.”

Anna Richardson

(Actress & Assistant Director) 

 Anna Richardson is the wife of Jeffrey Richardson, and the daughter of Jane and Mantie Barnes of Hampton, VA. She is presently employed at Northrop Grumman Newport News as a nuclear sheet metal welder on the USS Enterprise. She is an active member of Zoe Community Church in Newport News, VA. Anna has three wonderful sons Trevon and E.J. and Little Jeff. Anna believes “All things are possible to those who believe” She has been a faithful member of Essence of Life since 2001 and enjoys ministering through acting.

Owen E. Merritt (Actor)

Owen E. Merritt was born in Portsmouth, VA. The son of Hayward and Virdie Merritt. He was brought up in Mt. Sinai R.Z.U.A church where he sang in the choir since he was a young child. His family had a quartet group named the Merritt Gospel Singers directed by his mother, Dr.Virdie Merritt. Later in life he joined Mt. Nebo R.Z.U.A. church where he served in the choir and drama team. He has recorded and co-produced an album about true love and honesty. He has always had a love for writing music, acting, and singing. God has also blessed Owen with three beautiful children Antwan, LaShawn (which one 3-Medals at the 2008 Olympics), & Antionesha Merritt. Owen is a living testimony!

 Sheila Rabanal (Secretary of EOLDM)

 Sheila Rabanal was born in Portsmouth, VA. She is one of Six children born to Rev. & Mrs. A. G. Preuitt. She currently resides in Newport News, VA., with her husband Alfredo and she is employed by Ft. Eustis as a Marine Specialist. Sheila is a trusted and loyal member of EOLDM. She is a dedicated Wife, Mother and Grandmother that loves acting and bringing the Word of God alive! This is Sheila’s fourth time starring with Essence of Life Drama Ministries. 

Regina Blizzard as “Angel of Truth”

 Regina Blizzard is happily married to Chef Linwood Blizzard and in their union they have one son, Linwood Blizzard II. She is employed by Colonial Williamsburg Foundation as an 18^th Century Wig Maker. She is a faithful member of Zion Church in Williamsburg, VA where she serves as a deaconess, works with the Missionary Board, and the Choir. She has been a loyal member of EOLDM for 2 years.

 Robert E. Battle as the Spirit of Pride and Mortician No. 1

 Robert E. Battle was born in Columbus Ohio, after high school (East High) he joined the US Air force as a Personnel Specialist and retired from the U.S. Air Force in 1969 settling in VA. He is employed at Riverside Rehabilitation working with stroke patients and other patients with disabilities. He is also a graduate of Commonwealth Community College majoring in Business Administration. He is the proud parent of 2-children. While he was stationed in Colorado Springs, he performed in his first play. Robert has performed in numerous Essence of Life Productions.

 Timothy Basham (Marketing Manager)

Timothy (Tim) Basham has been a faithful part of Essence of Life Drama Ministries for over four years. He has two beautiful children and he is employed with Northrop Grumman. He is a faithful member of the EOLDM troupe that wears many hats that include working as the Marketing Manager.

Holly Minkins, “Production Manager”

Holly Minkins is married to Mark A. Minkins Sr., and has one son, Mark Minkins Jr. who is also a member of EOLDM. She is employed by Northrop Grumman, and has her Masters in Business Administration. She is a member of Little Zion Baptist Church where Linwood Gatling is pastor. This is her forth time of having the pleasure of working with EOLDM.

Faith Holloway, “Gossiper 1 & Business Manager”

Faith Hollowayis a native of Massachusetts she is the youngest of seven children. She gave her life to the Lord as a child. She attends Saint Pauls Church Baptist Church in Richmond, VA. She is happily married to Roy Holloway, Jr. and is pursing her MBA at Regent University in Virginia Beach. Faith is employed with the Colonial Williamsburg Company as an Event Planner. She is an anointed psalmists and mother of Jayden Isaiah. She has performed in several EOLDM Productions and has served as Business Manager for the ministry since it’s inception in 2002. Faith believes great leaders are great servers and Jesus Christ is our perfect example! 

Roslyn Scarborough-Collins,

"Spirit of Vanity"

Roslyn Scarborough-Collins has been in theatre for over two decades a native of Suffolk, VA. She has also served as a Forensics judge for the Western Branch High School Drama club. She attends St. Paul Baptist Church in Suffolk, under the leadership of Bishop C. V. Russell, III. She was recently married to Ricky Collins and they are the proud parents of five Children (Bianca, Allen, Meri, Tiffany and Crystal). She is also an active participant in Toastmasters International. Roslyn is known to many as a multi-talented, phenomenal woman.

Reverend’s Marcellus & Annette Harris, as “Angel of Truth”

Annette Harris, a native of East St. Louis, is a Mother, Grandmother, Business Woman, and a true woman of God whose hearts desire is to be found pleasing in the sight of the Lord.

As a young adult, Annette embarked upon a career in Funeral Service to pursue her longtime desires and dreams of helping others when help was most needed.

 In 1986 she was Licensed as a Funeral Director, and has since continued to serve and minister to the needs of numerous families from many different walks of life, religious and cultural backgrounds.

Annette is known throughout Illinois, Missouri, Maryland , North Carolina and Virginia, for her caring and compassionate service to families. In October of 1992, Annette accepted the call to the ministry and was Licensed as a Minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ under the leadership of her former pastor Elder Lewis I. Nicholson, Sr., and the Holiness Churches of God, Inc.

Anette presently serves as the Director of Operations with Nicholson-Cummings Funeral Home in Hampton, Virginia.

 Darlene Reed Christmas as: 

 “Mrs. Ella Harris & Spirit of the Flesh"

Darlene Reed is a resident of Appomattox, Va. She is a widowed mother of two sons and currently employed with the Social Security Administration. She is devoted member of Mt. Shiloh Baptist Church. Her interest in “helping others.” She loves to travel, hike and be amongst friends that love the Lord. Darlen is very active in politic, organizations and has run for several offices in Appomattox County. She serves on the Trustee Board of the Appomattox County Library, and participates in the Tax Assessment; along with a Trustee position on the Central Virginia Area for Aging for Senior Citizens and Form Action Organization, in Lynchburg for Racism. She is also the secretary on the board of the Carver-Price Alumni Association. Her hobbies are: Hiking, traveling and bowling. This is Darlene’s 3^rd time of faithfully ministering through drama with EOLDM, and she consistently blesses EOLDM with her gifts and talents.

 Jondahlyn L. Holston as “Jackie and MaSistahDear”

Jondahlyn L. Holston is a native of Michigan City, Indiana.  Her conspicuous talents have made her a staple on the metropolitan Hampton Roads stage.  She accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age.  She is a faithful member of Joy Church located in Newport News, Virginia, under the anointed leadership of her parents and pastors, Chuck and Clara Patterson.  Jondahlyn received her ministry license through Joy Church in March 2005 and was ordained as an Elder in August of 2007.  She received her B.A. degree in English Education and Speech Communications from Christopher Newport University.  Jondahlyn is married to the love of her life, Elgin Holston and they have three children, Darrick, Kayla and Selah.  Jondahlyn has been a fixture on local stages and has appeared in numerous theatrical productions to include: Terrence Afer-Anderson’s Cast In History, Glory Train, Keep Playing and Miss Heaven, and many more.  Her true desire and passion is to do the Lord’s will, win souls into the Kingdom and strengthen the saints.  Jondahlyn Holston’s life long desire is to advance, conquer and demonstrate the word of God.  Jondahlyn’s lifestyle and ministry reflects Matthew 6:33, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. 

"Donna Granves, Janet Evans"

Donna is a versatile woman with many gifts and talents hailing from the Empire State Nathaniel Graves II husband of 21 years and 2 handsome sons Nathaniel III and Raymond. She is employed by Northrop Grumman, Newport News (Shipyard) in the Systems Engineering department. She is an international thespian since 1974 and attends Carver Memorial Presbyterian Church in Newport News. She loves serving God as a Psalmist and Actress.

Tre'Von Barnes, "Little Angels & Imp

TreVon Barnes resides in Hampton, Va. He believes he is a handsome young man. He is the oldest of three. He loves to play football and basketball. He accepted the Lord at the age of 8. Tre is a six grader at Lindsay Middle School. Tre'Von says " if you believe you can achieve, you will succeed".

 Zopella Barnes (E.J.) , "Little Angel & Imp"

 Zopella Barnes (EJ) is a native of Hampton, VA. He is 10 years old. He received the MVP for the Tyler Tigers Football League and is currently conditioning for Y.H.Thomas Basketball League.He was baptized at the age of 9. Zopella is currently in the fifth grade at Bassette Elem. He loves going to church. He believes " do what you have to do now, so that you can do what you want to do later."

 Mark Minkins, Jr. "Little Angel"

Mark Minkins, Jr. (Markie)is the son of Mark A. Minkins Sr., and Holly Minkins., (EOLDM) Production Manager).  Markie is devoted member of EOLDM. He likes school.  We are proud to have little Markie as a part of EOLDM.

The Essence of A Man, Heart of a Woman, Appomattox, Cast 

Kamara Nathalia Martinez, Christian Martinez, _______________, Roberta Womack, (2nd Row) Tracy Lewis, Frances' Chambers, Shirl Lewis, Irene Broggin, Kimberly Watkins, Cynthia Terry, Flossie Davis, and Jessie Lewis, Jr.

 Kamara Nathalia Martinez

 Kamara Nathalia Martinez is very talented young lady that loves the lord. She is the daughter of Will and Nicole Martinez. She is 9-year old and this is her first acting debut. She is aspiring to become and Actress and Teacher. She adores her Nane Shirley Irene Broggin and has a personality that protects her 7-year old brother Chris and sometimes takes on the role as the bossy big sister. We may look up one day and see this Talented young lady on Word Network, as well as premiering on Lifetime.

Tae Foster, JatarraTae  is a girl of many characters with a vibrant, loving personality. She is the daughter of Stephen & Lateashai Foster of Covenant Mime Ministry. This 6-year old has been positively influenced by her parents’ numerous Gifts & Talents. She is aspiring to become and Actress and Heart Doctor. She has a personality that protects her 4-year old brother Jeremiah (Buddy) and sometimes takes on the role as the bossy big sister. We may look up one day and see this young lady on Word Network.

Shirley Irene Broggin, Church Mother

  Shirley Irene Broggin, and she married to Jesse Broggin. Shirley likes to be called Irene, or Nanne. She is the mother of two children, son Nicholas Elliott and (wife, Teddy) and daughter Nicole Martinez, (husband, Will Fredo Martinez), and four grandchildren (Kamara, Christopher, Sarah and Samuel). This is Irene’s debut with Essence of Life Drama ministry. She resides in Appomattox, VA.

 Roberta Womack, Lead Musician

   Agnus Rucker, (Gloria)

Bernice Thomas

Emerald Davis (Little Angel) and Eri Davis (Little Angel)

 **Rev. Anthony and Meachie Cousins

Yalonda Long, (Assist. Stage Manager)

Yalonda Long, was born in Smithfield, VA and she now resides in Hampton, VA. She is the Proud Mother of two teenage boys. She owns Yolanda’s Christian Childcare. She is a member of Calvary Community Church pastored by Bishop L.W. and Natalie Franciso. She has served EOLDM as an Actress and working behind the scenes.

Imara Diaz, Musical Director & Charles

Imara Diaz. Musical Director and Charles

Imara Diaz is both a loving father of twins, Imara Mesai and Imani Gabrielle and a lover of musical entertainment for over 20 years. I decided to become a musician late in grade school through Hampton City Schools, and later graduating from Phoebus High School in Hampton, Virginia.　 Even as a Drum Major in his high school band, leadership has always been free flowing.　 Masses have grown to appreciate his gifts through following his life of countless musical endeavors both past and soon to come.　 Imara’s musical　genre make-up expands far more than American culture including but not limited to African/Cuban, traditional and New Age Gospel, Reggae, Rhythm & Blues, Salsa as well as the Hip Hop culture.　 Garnering backing credits with many national recording artist such as United Souls, Kirk Franklin, Vicki Winans, The National Full Gospel. Baptist Fellowship Mass Choir, Prince Pankhi and Ancient King, and Drummie Zeb from the Legendary Wailers to mention a few. 

Currently Imara continues to press towards the mark of the high calling, currently residing in Hampton, Virginia.　 As Founder/CEO of ARAMI Entertainment, he possesses the ability to offer a full range of multi-media entertainment as well as set the stage for passing the torch to the next generation of musical pioneers.

Our Business

We are Servants of the God, Lending our Gifts and Talents to the Lord. Being lead by the Holy Spirit, as we attempt to Bring in the Harvest; Because the Harvest is white, but the labors are few!

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Who We Are

President, Director & Founder: Shirl Blackwell-Lewis, Jessie R. Lewis, Jr.: Editor & Tech. Director, Faith Holloway: Manager, Anna Richardson: Assist. Director, Sheila Rabanal: Secretary, Robert Battle: Treasurer, Tim Basham: Marketing Director,  Sam Dobie, Jr.: Staging Manager, Holly Minkins: Production Manager. Regina Battle, Director, TreVon Barnes, Zopella Barnes (E.J.),

Appomattox Drama Troup: Assistant Director:  Darlene Reed Christmas, Staging Manager: Nannie Watkins, Kimberly Watkins, Irene Broggin, Kamara Natalia "Jatarra" I and...