Nailah Renuka is an emerging multidisciplinary circus and dance artist from Tkaronto known for her dynamic athleticism, inquisitive mindset, and engaging performance quality. A BFA graduate of York University’s Dance Performance program, her appetite for interdisciplinary art is deeply rooted in her childhood experiences balancing an opera and musical theatre career with her training schedule as a national artistic gymnast. After graduating, Nailah relocated to New York City to train at The Ailey School as a Scholarship recipient while apprenticing Ailey II. There her movement quality was further shaped and influenced by her in-depth study of Jazz, Dunham, and Horton techniques, and her time performing with various companies and choreographers, including VIM VIGOR, Helen Simoneau, Ronald K Brown/EVIDENCE, Ross Daniels, Jennifer Muller, and Buglisi Dance Theater.
Markus Aurelyus is a Singer/Songwriter with a story to tell. Based in Scarborough, Ontario he has a unique R&B vocal style that’s influenced by Gospel, Soul, Pop and Hip-Hop. He has performed on stage with artists like Jully Black, DVSN and recorded with Serena Ryder, DVSN as well as many local artists such as Quincy Morales and Katasha J. Whether singing his latest single “Carnival” on stage or singing background for artists around the city, this singers’ energy and presence on stage are hard to ignore.
Jarid Polite, the founder and artistic director of Melanin Mosaic Performance Ensemble, is an accomplished artist with a passion for pushing boundaries and captivating audiences. With his extensive experience in dance, film, music, and thought-provoking entertainment, Jarid brings a unique blend of creativity and social consciousness to his work. His dedication to celebrating diversity, challenging societal norms, and fostering inclusivity sets the stage for groundbreaking productions that inspire and transform.
Drawing from his own experiences as a BlaQueer artist, Jarid infuses his performances with personal storytelling, impactful social commentary, and an unwavering commitment to artistic excellence. His vision for Melanin Mosaic Performance Ensemble is to create a space where diverse voices can thrive, where boundaries are shattered, and where art becomes a catalyst for change. With Jarid's leadership, the ensemble is poised to redefine the artistic landscape, providing a platform for underrepresented artists to shine and leaving an indelible mark on the world of contemporary art.
Cast and Crew: Jarid Polite - Artistic Director & Silk / Rodney Thomas - Jr. Creative Director / Nailah Renuka - Dancer / Markus Moses Jackman - Vocal Performance / Braxton Wignall - Director Of Photography / Richard Reyes - Still Photography /Chris Kennedy -Technical Crew / Willis Hickerson, Jr - Organ / KR Moore - Post-Sound Engineer
