Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, Kayla Lewis was raised in a household where music was more than a pastime - it was a way of life. From an early age, she was immersed in the vibrant rhythms of her father Kerry Lewis Sr.'s jazz gigs and the lively energy of her uncle Damien Gibson's band rehearsals - formative moments that ignited her lifelong connection to music.

A pivotal turning point came during high school when her music teacher, Carl Lacoste, encouraged her to treat her voice not just as an instrument, but as her primary one. That encouragement paved the way for formal training in classical voice, first at Xavier University of Louisiana with Dara Rhaming and Joy Meade, and later at New York University, where she studied under the esteemed soprano Harolyn Blackwell.

Kayla also holds a master's degree in Performing Arts Administration from NYU - a pursuit that not only expanded her understanding of the music industry but also sparked a deep passion for producing, ultimately leading to the creation of Belle Noire.

Her artistic journey has been enriched by the guidance of mentors such as renowned pianist Dr. Wilfred Delphin, legendary jazz vocalist Banu Gibson, and contemporary vocal coach Eric Arceneaux. She is also deeply grateful to Cyril Darensbourg, a steadfast supporter and mentor-like figure who has championed her work, facilitated invaluable introductions, and played a key role in her development as a solo artist in New York, where she performs alongside her brother.

Kayla recently completed a performance run with The Satin Dollz and currently works with the administrative team at the New York Hot Jazz Camp. She performs regularly throughout New York City, including appearances with Dandy Wellington, and returns home each winter to New Orleans to sing in her family's beloved annual band concert.

As the featured vocalist of Belle Noire, Kayla breathes new life into the music of jazz and cabaret's most iconic women. Her voice weaves through the show like a golden thread - at once narrator, interpreter, and emotional anchor - drawing the audience into a world of glamour, resilience, and song. At the heart of Belle Noire, Kayla's artistry shines, paying tribute to the past while carving out her own unforgettable place in it.

Kayla was introduced to Samuel "Sammy" Coleman through choreographer Mickey Davidson, and soon began attending his Monday night swing classes. Their artistic connection blossomed quickly, and Kayla was deeply honored when Sammy agreed to join her for a few intimate numbers in Belle Noire. Most recently, Sammy - along with several of his dancers, including Kayla - performed at Harlem's highly regarded annual Juneteenth celebration, continuing his lifelong commitment to honoring Black cultural heritage through music and movement.

Sammy Coleman is a beloved pillar of Harlem's swing dance revival - a dynamic force whose passion, artistry, and dedication have helped ignite a new generation's love for Lindy Hop. As founder and director of Sammy Swings and The Harlem Strutters, he proudly serves as a Frankie Manning & Norma Miller Ambassador, working tirelessly to honor and preserve the authentic legacy of this joyful, deeply American art form.

A cornerstone of the Harlem and NYC swing dance community, Sammy was one of the first cultural ambassadors chosen to attend Herräng Dance Camp in 2011, playing a key role in Harlem's ongoing social jazz dance renaissance. His contributions have rippled outward, cultivating a renewed energy around the music, the movement, and the communities that shaped them.

As an educator and performer, Sammy's reach is both wide and deeply respected. He has taught at some of the nation's most prestigious institutions, including Jazz at Lincoln Center, The Ailey School, NYU Tisch, Yale, Hunter College, NJPAC, 92nd Street Y, Minton's Playhouse, and the Harlem School of the Arts. From 1999 to 2015, he was a perennial performer at Jazz at Lincoln Center's Midsummer Night Swing, and in 2016, he lit up the stage at Italy's famed Umbria Jazz Festival, co-directing The Rhythm Stompers in a thrilling four-night run.

In 2020, Sammy was honored by Swing With Us NYC for his lifelong devotion to Harlem Lindy Hop education and cultural preservation. Now, he brings that same magnetic flair to Belle Noire, lending his signature choreography and joyful spirit to multiple numbers in the show.

Kayla is profoundly honored to have Sammy lending his talents to the production. His presence not only elevates the stage, but embodies the very essence of Belle Noire - a celebration of legacy, artistry, and the enduring power of Black cultural expression through dance.

Gabrielle Lewis, Kayla's cousin and daughter of Korey Lewis, Sr., began her dance journey a bit later than most - at age 12 - but quickly emerged as a standout performer at DanceIHC Academy, where she rose to become one of its premier dancers. Her talent and determination were unmistakable, leading to teaching opportunities at the school and regular performance gigs at birthday celebrations and special events.

A gifted choreographer, Gabrielle often crafts original routines in her signature style for both recitals and private performances. Her creative flair and technical excellence earned her the titles of Queen of the DanceIHC Academy and Leading Principal Dancer at the academy. She was also honored as the 20th inducted member of Iota Eta Gamma, the prestigious graduating society of the Dance IHC Academy.

At last year's Gibson Lewis Harmony family concert, Gabrielle captivated the audience with a beautifully choreographed and emotionally resonant performance to Deniece Williams's "Black Butterfly."

This fall, Gabrielle begins an exciting new chapter as she continues her education at Southern University in Baton Rouge.

For the Belle Noire show, Gabby will showcase her dynamic presence and signature moves in a selection of featured numbers, bringing her unique energy and elegance to the stage.

Adante Power is a dynamic triple threat - actor, singer, and dancer - whose commanding presence and undeniable charisma light up every stage he touches. With a rich background in theater, music, and movement, Adante brings a rare blend of intensity, grace, and artistry to Belle Noire, channeling the passion and elegance of a bygone era through every note and step.

A proud native of Brooklyn, New York, Adante's artistic journey began with a scholarship to the prestigious Alvin Ailey Bounding Boys program, where he laid the groundwork for his dance technique and expressive style. He went on to train at the American Tap Dance Foundation, where the influence of tap legends like Gregory Hines helped shape his rhythmic precision and stylistic flair.

Adante made his professional debut at a young age, landing the coveted role of Young Simba in the national Gazelle Tour of The Lion King. This breakout role took him across the country, captivating audiences with his talent and poise. Back in New York, he expanded his range with standout performances in Love and Information by Caryl Churchill and lent his voice to musical collaborations with artists such as Bernadette Peters and Lorde - including a televised appearance on Late Night with Seth Meyers.

A storyteller at heart, Adante also penned an original play during high school that was published by Samuel French and produced in partnership with the Roundabout Theatre Company. The play, performed by his peers, highlighted his versatility and vision as a young creator.

A graduate of The American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA), Adante has continued to nurture the next generation of performers, teaching tap at PurElements and the American Tap Dance Foundation - the very place where his professional journey was shaped.

In Belle Noire, Adante brings it all together - voice, movement, and dramatic power - to help evoke the golden spirit of jazz and cabaret's most unforgettable performers. With each number, he adds depth, soul, and a thrilling spark to the show's celebration of Black excellence and legacy.

Kayla was thrilled to be introduced to the incomparable Dandy Wellington through mutual acquaintances in New York's traditional jazz scene. Both share a flair for the theatrical and a deep appreciation for a golden window in American vernacular culture - making their artistic pairing in Belle Noire feel not only natural, but inevitable. After connecting through their shared creative circles, Kayla was honored to perform in Dandy's annual Easter Egg Strut, one of his signature events that blends vintage fashion, music, and joyful pageantry. Now, Dandy brings his distinctive vocals and timeless swagger to Belle Noire, lending his charm to a pair of exquisitely styled numbers.

Born and raised in Harlem, New York, Dandy grew up surrounded by music and steeped in classic style. Influenced by the sounds of Gershwin, Cole Porter, and Duke Ellington, and the charisma of performers like Gene Kelly and Fred Astaire, he cultivated his artistry through formal theater training at New York University. His passion for tailored fashion was shaped by his grandmother, a skilled tailor, and further refined by his formative years at a British-style prep school.

As a bandleader, entertainer, event producer, and creative consultant, Dandy Wellington has become a celebrated figure in the worlds of jazz, fashion, and immersive performance. He leads Dandy Wellington and His Band, known for delivering classic swing with modern finesse, and has produced stylish, historically inspired events for clients such as Airbnb and Bergdorf Goodman. His performances have graced iconic venues including The Rainbow Room, Goodwood Revival, and the Sydney Opera House. Beyond the stage, he collaborates with brands, moderates cultural conversations, and lends his creative vision to projects that blend the past with the present.

Dandy also recently launched Harlemology, a shoe collection created in partnership with American Duchess, paying homage to Harlem's rich cultural heritage. Known for his meticulous attention to detail and effortlessly tailored looks, Dandy lives by the philosophy of "vintage style, not vintage values" - celebrating the beauty of the past while embracing inclusivity, intentionality, and joy in the now. He believes that life itself is an event, and dresses - and performs - for the occasion.

With his global presence, magnetic stage energy, and reverence for cultural storytelling, Dandy Wellington's contribution to Belle Noire brings an added layer of polish, playfulness, and profound historical resonance to the production's celebration of jazz's golden age.

Through her connections with choreographers Mickey Davidson and Brian Davis, Kayla Lewis was elated to bring the multi-talented Darnell Williams onto the Belle Noire stage. With his magnetic presence, breathtaking technique, and authentic passion for performance, Darnell elevates every moment he inhabits - onstage and off.

A proud native of the DMV area, Darnell first found his love for dance at age five, tapping away in his first class at Sharon's Star Dance Studio. He soon sharpened his competitive edge at Dance Depot in Waldorf, MD, under the direction of Sheila Jedlowski, where he became a decorated performer at elite competitions including Groove National Talent Competition, StarQuest, and Showstoppers American Dance Championships.

His academic training matched his artistic passion - Darnell earned a BFA in Dance Performance and Choreography from Towson University, laying the foundation for a career that bridges classical rigor with captivating stagecraft. His professional debut came as a featured Tap Brother in the Tony Award-winning musical After Midnight aboard Norwegian Cruise Lines, under the direction of Warren Carlyle.

Since then, Darnell has dazzled audiences across the globe, dancing with acclaimed companies like ELSCO Dance (led by Ellenore Scott), Wandering Movers (Kevin Ortega-Rojas), and XY Dance Project (Nijawwon Matthews). His stage credits include TAPTASTIC (directed by Brian Davis), Made to Dance in Burning Buildings at Joe's Pub at The Public, Disney's The Little Mermaid at The Fireside Theatre, and Big Band Beat at Tokyo Disney Resort.

His talents have taken him from the spotlight of Disney Cruise Line's Disney Wonder to the groundbreaking production Noiseboys aboard the Norwegian Prima, where he currently serves as both Dance Captain and Tap Dancer. In addition, he made a striking appearance in Isak Danielson's music video "Hold My Hand".

Represented by The Carson Kolker Organization Ltd., Darnell continues to carve out a space for himself as a dynamic artist whose work is grounded in rhythm, resilience, and radiant storytelling. His artistry speaks volumes - full of precision, character, and electric charisma.

In Belle Noire, Darnell brings that brilliance to every step, note, and gesture. He doesn't just perform - he transforms, embodying the spirit of legacy and innovation that pulses at the heart of this show. Kayla and the entire team are beyond honored to share the stage with such an extraordinary talent.

Mickey Davidson, a highly respected veteran of the New York and D.C. dance scenes, has played an instrumental role in shaping the stage direction and movement for Belle Noire. A dynamic force in both performance and education, Ms. Davidson brings decades of experience, vision, and deep cultural insight to the production.

Kayla Lewis first encountered Ms. Mickey as a young vocalist at the Louis Armstrong "Satchmo" Summer Band Camp, where Mickey taught swing dance each summer. Their creative bond, formed in New Orleans, was rekindled years later in New York and now flourishes through this artistic collaboration.

Mickey is the founder and choreographer of Mickey D. & Friends, a company that explores the powerful connection between music and dance. Her original productions--including DANCE! RHYTHM! DANCE!, JUBA, JUKIN AND JAZZIN, and SWINGIN' IN TIME--have toured nationally. She also served for two decades as the director of Okra Dance Company, carrying on the legacy of its founding director, Phillip Bond.

She was commissioned by the Smithsonian Institution to create a piece for Beyond Categories: The Musical Genius of Duke Ellington, which was performed at the Museum of the City of New York and in schools across the city. Mickey also served as one of three choreographers for the European tour of Black and Blue, preserving and presenting Frankie Manning's swing and blues choreography.

Since 1985, she has been a steward of Lindy Hop tradition, performing with Norma Miller's Jazz Dancers and continuing that legacy through her company, the Savoy Swingers. Her work blends swing, tap, modern jazz, and aerial Lindy, and she frequently collaborated with legends like Frankie Manning on workshops, performances, and TV appearances.

Mickey also enjoyed a decades-long creative partnership with playwright Ntozake Shange, choreographing works including For Colored Girls, for which she won an AUDELCO Award, and several original choreo-poems presented at the National Black Theatre Festival.

A passionate educator, she has taught widely in schools, community centers, and universities, including a 17-year residency in jazz dance at Wesleyan University.

Mickey Davidson's contributions to Belle Noire bring depth, historical richness, and a profound love of movement to the stage--bridging generations through rhythm and storytelling.

Brian Davis, affectionately known as Mr. Taptastic, serves as the choreographer for a selection of standout numbers in Belle Noire. Though he was originally slated to perform in the show, unforeseen circumstances prevented his appearance on stage. Still, Kayla Lewis was incredibly fortunate to have his creative brilliance behind the scenes, where he helped reconstruct several historic dance sequences that bring vintage jazz to life.

Kayla first connected with Brian through their mutual mentor, Mickey Davidson, who had long envisioned them collaborating. That shared creative vision has now come to fruition, with Brian's choreography adding rhythmic fire and precision to the production.

A dynamic dancer, singer, and actor, Brian began his performance journey in his hometown of Seattle, Washington, as a student of the Northwest Tap Connection. As part of the tap duo Tapoholiks, he choreographed the electrifying number I Like The Way You Move, which won the 2004 Seattle Apollo Star Search and secured the group a performance on the nationally televised Showtime at the Apollo. During this time, Brian also earned a role as a substitute executioner at the Apollo Theater's iconic Amateur Night, standing in for CP Lacey.

Brian has trained with Lola Louis Creative and Performing Arts Inc., where he currently serves as the Coordinator of the Acting Ensemble, The Conscious Ones. In 2005, he was selected to dance alongside Savion Glover in Dance This at Seattle's Paramount Theater, and later went on to win the Philly Tap Challenge.

A proud 2009 graduate of the University of the Arts, Brian holds a BFA in Modern Dance with a minor in Musical Theatre. His theater credits include My One and Only at the Goodspeed Opera House, Rhythm Is Our Business at New York's 14th Street Theater, and On Kentucky Avenue at the Triad Theater.

Known for his boundless curiosity and commitment to growth, Brian continues to study acting, singing, and dance, remaining as passionate a student as he is a performer. His contribution to Belle Noire brings not only technical excellence, but an infectious energy rooted in the rich tradition of Black American performance.

A longtime mentor and cherished associate of Kayla Lewis's father, Louis Ford brings his dynamic expertise to Belle Noire on clarinet and saxophone. Kayla is deeply honored to include someone whose musical lineage and personal connection run so profoundly through her family's story.

Raised in the heart of New Orleans, Louis began his musical journey practicing each morning alongside his father, the great Clarence Ford, a celebrated saxophonist who performed with Fats Domino and countless other icons. Louis descends from a long line of musicians dating back to 1856, including bassist Narcisse Gabriel, uncles Percy and Manny Gabriel, drummer Frank Oxley, and cousin Charlie Gabriel of the Preservation Hall Jazz Band.

By junior high, Louis was already proficient on clarinet, soon adding saxophone to his repertoire. He trained at NOCCA and played professionally with his father in the William Houston Orchestra, developing early connections with musicians like clarinetist Manuel Crusto.

Louis refined his technique under the principal clarinetist of the New Orleans Philharmonic Orchestra, and studied with jazz masters Kidd Jordan and Alvin Batiste. He earned a degree in music education from Loyola University and later taught at several schools, including serving as band director at Lafayette Academy and assistant musical director at McDonough 15 alongside Walter Payton.

As a performer, Louis has toured internationally and shared the stage with Harry Connick Jr., Wallace Davenport, Teddy Riley, and Danny Barker. Today, he continues to play in various ensembles and serves as a Teaching Artist with the Preservation Hall Foundation, mentoring the next generation of New Orleans musicians.

Louis Ford's presence in Belle Noire is both a personal and musical full-circle moment--an embodiment of the legacy, talent, and tradition that shaped Kayla's own artistic journey.

Damien Gibson is a versatile and deeply dedicated musician, returning home to New Orleans after nearly two decades away. A multi-instrumentalist and natural educator, Damien spent much of his professional life immersed in the world of classical music, where his artistry on the clarinet earned him numerous accolades - including multiple concerto competition wins during graduate school. While pursuing his doctorate at the University of North Texas, he performed with several regional orchestras and maintained a vibrant studio of private students, nurturing the next generation of performers.

Yet despite his classical pedigree, Damien's most beloved musical endeavor has been directing the family R&B group, Gibson Lewis Harmony. Featuring his siblings, in-laws, and niblings (nieces and nephews), the ensemble has become a joyful celebration of family, heritage, and shared rhythm. For the past three winters, Damien has gathered relatives of all skill levels - musical and non-musical alike - and tirelessly molded them into a dynamic and spirited performance group. In this setting, he sheds the formality of the concert hall and returns to the music of his roots, embracing popular and soul-driven sounds with infectious enthusiasm.

Beyond his work with orchestras and family bands, Damien has also served as a band director in schools across New Orleans and Texas, where he expanded his musical toolkit by mastering several families of instruments. For the Belle Noire show, he will showcase this range by performing on violin and assisting with woodwinds in select numbers.

A guiding light in the musical lives of Kayla and her siblings, Damien has worn many hats over the years - teacher, conductor, mentor, and motivator. He taught them piano via Skype in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and even remotely conducted a family concert band from Texas. But perhaps his most serendipitous contribution came long before any of them were born: he introduced their mother to their father back in college, setting the foundation for an entire generation of music-makers.

Another cherished musical connection from her father's world - and a proud fellow alumnus of St. Augustine High School - Ronell "Roo" Johnson brings a dazzling blend of tradition and versatility to the Belle Noire stage. A powerhouse trombonist, soulful vocalist, and gifted multi-instrumentalist, Ronell is celebrated not only for his remarkable talent, but for the joy and authenticity he brings to every performance.

Born and raised in New Orleans, Ronell began playing music at the tender age of six and was quickly drawn into the city's vibrant jazz heritage. Deeply rooted in the classic New Orleans "tailgate" trombone tradition, his style evokes the spirit of greats like James "Trummy" Young and Kid Ory, while still carving a fresh and unmistakably personal sound. Over the years, Ronell's musicianship has blossomed into a multifaceted force - whether on trombone, sousaphone, piano, B3 organ, or tambourine, his musical voice is full of character, groove, and soul.

He is a beloved member of the legendary Preservation Hall Jazz Band, and on several occasions, he and Kayla's father, bassist Kerry Lewis, Sr., toured together with the ensemble - adding another meaningful layer of connection to his presence in this production. Ronell is also the co-founder of the Coolbone Brass Band, a family-rooted project known for infusing street brass energy with tight musicianship and a bold creative edge. His own group, the Ronell Johnson New Orleans Jazz Band, regularly enlivens social dance events across the city, including the much-loved Nickel-A-Dance series.

In 2024, Ronell released his debut solo album, Instant Roo, a vibrant and genre-blending project that showcases his gifts not only as a performer but as a storyteller through music. The album shines with warmth, humor, and technical brilliance - a reflection of the very spirit he brings to Belle Noire. Kayla is honored to feature this brilliant artist in the show, whose artistry bridges generations, celebrates heritage, and makes every note feel like home.

Kayla is deeply grateful to have the fun and exuberant Ronell "Roo" Johnson on board for Belle Noire. His infectious spirit, musical brilliance, and lifelong connection to her father's world bring a joyful authenticity to the production.

Kerry Lewis Jr., Kayla's brother, is a rising bassist and composer originally from New Orleans, Louisiana. Born into a richly musical family - with a father who is a professional bassist and a home filled with the sounds of jazz, classical, and R&B - Kerry was immersed in music from an early age. But his deeper appreciation for the craft grew gradually, evolving from a background presence into a true calling.

He began his formal music education by studying piano and playing trombone in the family band as a child, under the guidance of his uncle, Damien Gibson. He later gravitated toward the bass through school music programs, where he built a strong foundation in classical technique. His father was instrumental in his development, nurturing his growth and introducing him to the language of jazz - starting with the traditional New Orleans styles that shaped their shared heritage.

During high school and college, Kerry gained valuable experience in both classical and jazz ensembles, developing a versatile musical voice that allowed him to move fluidly between genres - and even blend them in inventive and expressive ways. His curiosity led him to explore styles that straddled the boundaries between the formal and the improvisational, the structured and the soulful.

Now based in New York City, Kerry is pursuing a master's degree in Double Bass and String Studies at NYU Steinhardt, where he studies under renowned bassist Gregg August. Since arriving in the city, he has been warmly welcomed into the jazz community, performing with celebrated artists such as Dennis Lichtman, Pucci Amanda Jhones, and Dan Levinson. He has also recently appeared alongside Margot Sergent, Charlie Roman, and other outstanding talents across a variety of New York stages.

In addition to his performance work, Kerry is a passionate composer and arranger, currently studying composition to further refine his skills in musical storytelling. For Belle Noire, he will serve as the show's arranger, crafting elegant, era-evocative orchestrations, while also performing live on bass and synthesizer, adding lush string textures that will enrich the sonic landscape of the production. While his goal was to stay true to the original arrangements of the era, he was given one special opportunity for creative freedom: reimagining the finale number, "Life is But a Dream," an original composition by his father, Kerry Lewis Sr., allowing him to infuse the piece with his own artistic voice while honoring the legacy that inspired it.

Kerry Lewis Sr., Kayla's father, has led a meaningful life defined by service, versatility, and an unshakable bond with music. Over the years, he has worn many hats - United States Marine, Air Force Sergeant, Army Major, police officer in Georgia, and now a National Park Ranger at the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park. Yet through every chapter, one identity has remained his truest and most enduring: musician.

A seasoned and soulful bassist, Kerry has lent his deep, resonant sound to some of the most revered names in jazz, including Leroy Jones, Dr. Michael White, Banu Gibson, and Catherine Russell. His steady groove and impeccable timing led to a memorable stint with the Preservation Hall Jazz Band's touring ensemble, and he continues to perform regularly at Preservation Hall's home base in New Orleans. Known for his rich tone and rock-solid playing, Kerry is a musician's musician - respected, reliable, and always in demand.

Kerry's talents extend beyond the bandstand. He contributed to the acclaimed soundtrack of Ma Rainey's Black Bottom and has appeared as a musician in films such as Bill and Ted Face the Music, Bolden, and Capone. His background in law enforcement and military service even brought authenticity to his appearances as a SWAT team member in NCIS: New Orleans.

In addition to bass, Kerry is proficient on tuba, congas, and saxophone - but perhaps his most underappreciated superpower is his expertise in sound engineering. A skill he honed in college and during his time with the Marine Band, Kerry continues to apply that knowledge daily at the New Orleans Jazz Park, where he engineers live performances for visiting artists. Within the family R&B ensemble Gibson Lewis Harmony, he is not only the bassist but also the one ensuring that every mic, monitor, and mix is just right.

For the Belle Noire show, Kerry will bring his remarkable versatility to the stage, performing on bass, congas, and saxophone, while also setting up and engineering the sound - ensuring the performance resonates on every level, both musically and technically. In a particularly special moment, the show will conclude with the debut of a song composed by Kerry himself, titled Life Is But a Dream. This deeply personal piece, entrusted to Kayla to premiere as the show's finale, serves as a heartfelt closing note and a beautiful family legacy in melody.

Kerry takes great pride in mentoring his children - all three of whom will be performing in this program. From infancy, they were immersed in the rhythms of traditional jazz, often swaying to his performances at Palm Court, Jazz Fest, and French Quarter Festival. Two of his children also studied at the New Orleans Traditional Jazz Camp, where Kerry served as a faculty member. He has further shared his passion for jazz as an instructor at the Chautauqua Jazz Workshop, passing on the spirit of the genre not just to his own family, but to countless others.

Korey Lewis, Sr., Kayla's uncle, is a retired U.S. Army Major whose lifelong passion for jazz has remained an unwavering rhythm beneath every chapter of his life. Though he built a distinguished career in military service - marked by discipline, leadership, and dedication - his heart has always beat in time with the music. Upon returning to his beloved home state of Louisiana, Korey re-immersed himself in its rich and vibrant musical culture, swiftly becoming a familiar and respected figure on local stages. He is currently channeling his artistic journey into his debut headliner album, a deeply personal project that weaves together his jazz roots, life experiences, and love of groove.

Korey's primary instrument is the drums, and his refined sense of rhythm and instinctive musicality have made him a sought-after collaborator. Throughout his career, he has had the honor of sharing the stage with some of the most revered names in jazz, including Ellis Marsalis, Kidd Jordan, Kenny Blake, Jimmy Heath, Donald Byrd, and fellow St. Augustine High School alumnus Victor Goines. As a proud member of the legendary lineage of St. Aug drum majors, Korey exemplifies the school's powerful legacy of musical excellence, leadership, and showmanship.

Within the family R&B group, Gibson Lewis Harmony, Korey is more than just a player - he is the backbone. His steady presence, deep musical wisdom, and irresistible groove bring cohesion and vitality to an ensemble made up of siblings, in-laws, and a rising generation of young performers. Whether he's driving the beat from behind the kit or mentoring family members offstage, Korey's impact is both musical and deeply personal.

For the Belle Noire show, Korey will be anchoring the rhythm section with his signature drumming style, providing a rock-solid foundation and infusing the performance with his dynamic energy, soulful timing, and unmistakable flair.

Kyle Lewis, Kayla's youngest brother, was destined to develop musical abilities growing up in a household surrounded by music. He has studied cello for 12 years under the guidance of his esteemed teacher, Phil von Maltzahn, and has been a member of the Greater New Orleans Youth Orchestra for the past two years. He also briefly marched with St. Augustine High School's famed Marching 100, playing trumpet.

In addition to his musical pursuits, Kyle is a proud alum of the International School of Louisiana's Circus Arts program, where he spent years as a tumbling, juggling, unicycling, and stilt-walking performer. He has also been a fixture in New Orleans' Krewe of Muses parade, unicycling annually under the mentorship of his longtime circus arts coach, Ms. Meret Ryhiner.

This fall, Kyle will join his siblings in New York as he begins a new chapter at Fordham University in the Bronx. He's especially looking forward to weekends spent performing in a Renaissance string band with his brother and sister - a family tradition that continues to grow.

For the Belle Noire show, Kyle will, of course, lend his talents on the cello, and may even sneak in a little trumpet here and there.

Alexis McQuarter, Kayla's cousin, serves as the gifted backdrop illustrator for Belle Noire, lending her creative brilliance to the show's atmospheric world. From the very beginning, Kayla envisioned a production that would go beyond music - a show that would whisper of Old Hollywood elegance, not through lavish sets but through evocative visual scenes that quietly suggest glamour, nostalgia, and storytelling. Alexis was instrumental in making that vision a reality, infusing each backdrop with her unique blend of sensitivity, imagination, and style.

A visual artist since childhood, Alexis's connection to art deepened meaningfully during her studies at the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA), where she honed her skills and cultivated her distinctive voice as a creator. But Alexis is much more than a painter - she is a multidisciplinary artist, having trained in theater, voice, and dance, and shining in every realm she touches. While she contributes her expressive vocals to the Gibson Lewis Harmony family band, it is through her art that she feels most at home.

Over the years, Alexis has been commissioned to create intimate, one-of-a-kind portraits, known for their soulful detail and emotional richness. She has also brought her vision to larger canvases, completing a select number of murals in New Orleans that add a touch of beauty and narrative to their surroundings. Her artwork has also taken wearable form through t-shirts printed with her original paintings, allowing admirers to carry her creativity into the world.

Alexis occasionally returns to the stage, most memorably in her moving portrayal of Hattie Covington in Calisaya Blues, a historical play steeped in magical realism. Whether painting, performing, or harmonizing with her family, Alexis brings intention, spirit, and authenticity to everything she does.

Above all, her most cherished role is being mother to two radiant daughters, Sienna and Amaia, who are her greatest creations thus far.

Another gifted and multi-talented associate of her father, Jamil Sharif brings his explosive trumpet skills to the Belle Noire show, adding brilliance and soul to the evening's soundscape. Born and raised in New Orleans, Jamil comes from a remarkable musical lineage - his father, the late Emery Humphrey Thompson (Umar Sharif), was a world-renowned trumpeter and Broadway veteran (The Wiz, Black and Blue), and his great-grandfather was a legendary music educator who taught generations of New Orleans musicians.

Jamil began playing trumpet at age 14 under George Jansen, a revered mentor to artists such as Wynton Marsalis and Terence Blanchard. He trained at NOCCA, where he studied with Ellis Marsalis, and continued his education at Southern University under Alvin Batiste, Roger Dickerson, and Edward "Kidd" Jordan.

His extensive training laid the foundation for a dynamic career that has spanned genres - from jazz and swing to gospel, funk, reggae, classical, and film scoring. He has performed internationally across Japan, Switzerland, Sweden, Germany, England, and France, and appeared at major festivals including Newport Rhythm and Blues, Essence, Chicago Jazz, Stockholm Jazz and Blues, and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.

Jamil has played a pivotal role in several films and television projects, including Ray, Sonny, and The Big Easy, serving as both musical contributor and music coordinator. His original compositions like "Vee Vee" and "Crescent City Strut" have been featured prominently in soundtracks. As president of Umdah Music, he has produced three acclaimed albums, including Portraits of New Orleans (featuring Dr. John) and Jamillennium.

Kayla is honored to welcome Jamil into the Belle Noire family - not only for his dazzling musicianship, but for the rich musical tradition he represents and the vibrant spirit he brings to the stage.

Kayla is deeply honored to include Mari Watanabe in Belle Noire - not only as a masterful pianist but as a figure whose presence beautifully bridges generations, genres, and family ties. A longtime pillar of the New Orleans jazz scene, Mari has moved seamlessly through its many circles - including those of Kayla's own father, Kerry Lewis, Sr., with whom she has shared stages and musical memories. In a delightful twist of fate, Kayla later discovered that Mari's husband, Roger Lewis - the legendary saxophonist and founding member of the Dirty Dozen Brass Band - is actually a distant cousin of her father. The connection transformed a meaningful collaboration into a symbolic homecoming, further uniting this production through lineage and legacy.

Mari Watanabe is a gifted pianist, composer, and arranger, renowned for leading her ensemble, The Chosen Few Jazz Band, with unmatched elegance, crisp musicality, and emotional range. Her journey began at the age of five in her native Japan, where she immersed herself in classical piano studies. But even then, it was the rhythms and soul of New Orleans traditional jazz that called to her heart. That passion ultimately brought her to New Orleans - a city that would become her home, muse, and stage.

Over the years, Mari has built a remarkable career performing with some of the most revered names in jazz history. Her collaborators have included icons such as Danny Barker, Dr. Michael White, Ernie K-Doe, and Gregg Stafford. She has also played with major brass band institutions like the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Harold Dejean's Olympia Brass Band, and the ever-vibrant Kermit Ruffins. Whether accompanying a soulful vocal, laying down a stride groove, or breathing life into a ballad, Mari plays with a deep sensitivity and authority that only comes from living and loving this music.

Having Mari at the piano for Belle Noire is more than a musical contribution - it is a testament to the enduring spirit of jazz, the intergenerational power of community, and the way music can bind even the most unexpected threads of family together.

In the spirit of giving back to the city whose heartbeat has so deeply shaped its own, Belle Noire is honored to donate a portion of its proceeds to two treasured organizations that uplift, inspire, and preserve the artistic soul of New Orleans. One of these is the Second Line Arts Collective - a visionary music education initiative that holds a tender and meaningful place in Kayla's heart.

It was within this nurturing creative haven that her brother, Kerry Lewis, Jr., blossomed over several years - not only refining his musical gifts, but also gaining the practical wisdom to navigate the often unseen architecture of an artist's life. Here, he learned not only how to make music - but how to build a future through it.

Founded with love and intention by musicians and educators Gregory Agid and Darrian Douglas, Second Line Arts is a torchbearer of a new kind of music education - one that reveres the past while preparing young artists for sustainable, empowered futures. Guided by the legacies of their own mentors, Alvin Fielder and Alvin Batiste, the founders envisioned an organization that teaches students to play boldly and live wisely.

Their offerings reflect this vision. The Sanaa Music Workshop, their flagship program, empowers high school and college-age musicians with crucial tools for real-world success - financial literacy, contract negotiation, creative marketing, and more -equipping them to not only perform on stage, but to thrive as leaders in the industry. For younger children, Little Stompers infuses joy, rhythm, and culture into the early years through playful, interactive experiences that spark imagination and confidence.

At its very heart, Second Line Arts believes what Belle Noire also knows to be true: art is power. And when that power is placed in the hands of young people - supported, nurtured, and seen - it has the potential to transform not just lives, but entire communities.

The Belle Noire family is deeply proud to give back to this extraordinary organization that helped cultivate the artistry of one of its own.

The second organization benefiting from Belle Noire is the New Orleans Dance Collective (NODC) - a transformative nonprofit that uses the power of dance to uplift and empower at-risk youth in the city's most underserved neighborhoods.

Founded by Ms. Janet Andrews, a lifelong dancer and licensed social worker, NODC is the culmination of her mission to intervene early in the lives of young people through dance as a form of therapy, discipline, and joy. Kayla and her mother first encountered Ms. Janet years ago during an exhilarating tap class at Dancing Grounds. Not long after, Ms. Janet established NODC to offer something deeper than just dance lessons: a lifeline for young people facing emotional and environmental challenges.

Growing up in Treme in the 1950s, Andrews was surrounded by music and movement. Though her own dreams of dancing professionally were curtailed, she pursued a master's in social work at Tulane University and spent years helping recovering addicts. But she soon realized she wanted to help before crisis hit - leading her to unite her passions through the creation of NODC.

Through her program, dance becomes a form of group therapy. Her students "dance their blues away," gaining confidence, community, and purpose along the way. With a career spanning over 58 years of teaching, and with the recent honor of receiving the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Angel Award, Ms. Janet continues to inspire through her unwavering dedication.

With NODC, movement becomes more than expression - it becomes transformation. The Belle Noire family is deeply proud to give back to this extraordinary organization that helped cultivate the artistry of one of its own.