Lisa Lacy and Cynthia Douglas, Evangelize

Unbeknownst even to it’s founders, Images Theater Company (ITC) was initially created when Lisa Lacy, director of the California Musical’s Theater, 2003 MLK Jr. Theater Project, “Keeping the Dream Alive” in passing, asked Charles Cooper, a vocalist, “Do you write music?” Charles responded yes. The following summer, when the offer came to develop a play for Sacramento’s Juneteenth Festival, ITC was officially born.

Since those meager beginnings, with Lisa as Artistic Director/Playwright and Charles as the Musical Director/ Composer, ITC added Wanel Thomas as their choreographer, and began their artistic journey together. From the initial core of five persons, ITC has grown to employ over 30 African-American actors, six musicians, dancers and technical staff in the Sacramento area.

Lisa Lacy, Artistic Director

Charles Cooper, Musical Director

Labeling themselves as “Thespian Nomads,” without a theater to call home, ITC has collaborated with and performed at Chautauqua, and Magic Circle Theaters and on various church stages in Sacramento and surrounding areas. Adopting the philosophy of the Black Arts Movement, ITC prides itself in developing uplifting, educational, powerful, and message-driven original productions. In addition to creating the concept and two-thirds of the MLK production “And the Dream Goes On,” ITC founders have written six other plays, including the well-received musical, Evangelize.

Although ITC began as a community theater organization, this Fall they will move into the professional arena when they open their newest musical, Hallelujah City, on October 4th, at the Benvenuti Performing Arts Center. Partnering and moving under the umbrella of Voices of CA for Arts, Culture, and Diversity (VoCAL), a new professional company overseen by Kendra Lewis, ITC will realize its' dreams of becoming the first African-American professional company in Sacramento.

Wanel Thomas, Choregrapher