I Know I'm Somebody! The Musical

JD Williams was born in Newark, New Jersey where he attended Arts High School. He is a renowned actor with starring roles in the HBO television programs Oz and The Wire under his belt. He appeared as Preston “Bodie” Broadus in the first four seasons of The Wire. He played inmate Kenny Wrangler for the first four seasons of Oz. He had a guest starring role in the Sopranos as Special K. He has also had leading roles and cameo appearances in a number of R&B and hip-hop music videos. Some of his other credits include the following:

FILM                                                   TV

        -Pootie Tang                                -The Wire
        -Snipes                                         -Oz
       -Popcorn Shrimp                          -Detroit 187
       -Graffiti Bridge                             -Third Watch
       -The Sopranos                              -New York Undercover

Kori Jay - "Tina" 

27-year old actress/model Kori Jay was raised in San Diego, CA and currently resides in East Orange, NJ. Kori has aspired to be an actress and model for most of her life. She has performed in several stage productions and has taken extra roles on television and film productions. She has done runway shows throughout the Tri-State area and most recently for Today’s Black Man and Today’s Black Woman Magazine.

Lorenzo Norvell - "Tyrone"

Lorenzo Norvell is here by way of the Chicago theatre community. This is Lorenzo's first Off-Broadway performance. His time on the stage includes the play 'Exonerated' (LaCosta Theatre) and 'And Ya Don't Stop' (Chicago Fringe Festival 2010). The Chicago Tribune gave him a very positive write-up for his performance of 'Dre' in Eta Creative Arts' play 'Resurrection.' His love for acting came as a teen when he was selected to perform a rap for a hip-hop opera. Lorenzo is honored to be chosen for the role of Tyrone and grateful to have such a supportive cast.  He looks forward to a Broadway performance of 'I Know I'm Somebody!'

Khyree Townes - "Jr."

Mayo Bass - "Lisa"

Mayo Bass draws her musical styling from Lauryn Hill, Jazmine Sullivan, Beyonce, and Brandy in particular.  Her artistry is divinely inspired. Mayo’s lyrics will woo you and her sounds will soothe you.  A talent that speaks for itself, Mayo is known for her rich tones and contralto voice.

Hailing from Jamaica, Queens NY, Mayo was raised by her mom. She is the middle child of 5 siblings. She received an AA in Performance Arts, from Queens Borough Community College and her BA from York College in Movement Science. 

She has worked with recording artists Shirley Murdock, Malissa Redmond, Salt n Peppa, and Gary Anglin. She was a featured soloist in an international performance troupe that was part of the nationally televised Gospel Fest. She has performed internationally singing in Australia as well as national and local performances.

Catch Mayo locally or internationally, singing her songs and building her fan base.  Look for her first project soon to be made available. Mayo is the next “big thang” in the industry!

Radio: 

• WBLS - Steve Harvey Radio Star Winner
• 105.1 FM 

Mayo is making her professional theatre debut in this production of Sheba Jordan's I Know I'm Somebody! and I Know I'm Somebody Too!

Yosiah Dykes is a natural when it comes to acting. He attends Arts High School in Newark, New Jersey where he is currently studying music. He debuted in his first professional stageplay when he joined the cast of I Know I’m Somebody! in 2008. Although he is the brother of writer/director/producer Sheba Jordan, landing the role was not easy. He was originally rejected and asked to fill in until the part was cast. “He had the talent, but I thought he looked too young to play Karen’s abusive boyfriend,” Sheba said. The 17 year-old, driven young man did not take no for an answer. As he was “filling in” he continued to add flair and excitement to the character that was irresistible and before long, he was offered the part. He gave thrilling performances in both productions of I Know I’m Somebody! He was so awesome that the playwright decided to create a sequel called I Know I’m Somebody Too! that delves into the life of his character (Mike). “He gets it,” Sheba said. “He totally and completely understands Mike. That’s a writer’s delight.” Yosiah has been seen in other plays at school and is a member of the Hip-Hop trio Citi Heat. He is a gifted actor, singer, dancer and songwriter.

Ossie Bey - "Karen"

Krystal Love - "Tammy a.k.a. Tam-Tam"

Newark native Krystal Love is a fresh, new face in the world of entertainment. She is a 20 year old model and actress who has performed in Aids Awareness plays throughout Newark and East Orange, NJ in association with various Boys and Girls clubs as well as school productions; performances that inspired her to pursue acting. She made her professional theatre debut when she joined the cast of I know I’m Somebody! in 2008 at the South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC). She gave a riveting performance during the Mother’s Day ‘09 show as the sexy girlfriend of “George” played by JD Williams. And she’s excited  about rejoining the cast of I Know I’m Somebody! in 2010. “I would like to give thanks to God for blessing me with the talent and to Sheba Jordan for giving me the opportunity and guidance to make my dreams come true.”

Victoria Anderson - "M.C./Nurse"

Victoria Anderson was born & raised in Newark, NJ area. She enlisted in the military (Army) after her graduation from high school where she served six years.   Victoria is employed with NJ Transit Rail.  She is married with two daughters and a grandson.  She’s an active member of Bethlehem Judah Christian Fellowship in Elizabeth, NJ where she serves as Doorkeeper. Victoria has performed in BJCF F.A.M.E. Production of  “Israel Cain” written and directed by Tracy Allen.  She hopes to one day be on stage performing in one of Tyler Perry’s production.  Victoria would like to thank GOD for his blessings and mercy, her loving husband Terry and daughters Na-Tasha & Aniyah for their inspiration and sacrifice.  She also wants to thank her family and friends for their love and support. Most of all, "I want to express my gratitude to Sheba for giving me this opportunity to perform and to work for her as her personal assistant.  May God continue to shine and bless you for you are truly a blessing and I want to say thank you."

James Reid - "Basketball Buddy #2"

James Reid, is a new face to the industry. At age 22, he is a very determined, hardworking actor. Born and raised in Winston-Salem, NC, he currently resides in Bridgeport, CT and attends the Southern Connecticut State University where he is studying Theatre. He has experience in both film and theatre and gives total thanks and praise to God for every obstacle in his life, understanding that his strength to succeed comes from above. 

Neef Israel - "Rev."

Neef Israel gives all thanks and praises to God for all things, understanding that without Him success is impossible. Neef has been seen in episodes of Law and Order and currently works with Jeff Mitchell Management in New York City . He is an experienced actor, model, and writer. He made his theatre debut last year during the first run of I Know I’m Somebody! His performance was compelling and brilliant! Neef thanks his mom, his brothers and sisters and all his friends and family for their constant support and belief in him.