Jeff Award Winning "Caroline or Change"

After being cast in her high school production of "Dreamgirls" as Deena, she was bit by the musical theater bug. Rashada went on to star in FAMU Essential Theater's "Dreamgirls" in college as Deena once again. When she returned home from college, she decided to visit LA and NYC to see if either place would be a good fit for her. She decided that Chicago was the place to stay. Rashada went on to work in her community not knowing that she would be called back to the stage to start working on her first professional show at Chicago's eta Creative Arts theater under the direction of the late, great Abena Joan Brown and her favorite teacher, Mr. Rukano Jahi. 

Shortly after completing her first show at eta, she was later invited to audition at the Black Ensemble Theater for a role in "Mama Said There'd Be Days Like This", a story about the girl groups of the 50's & 60's. Rashada hasn't looked back since. She went on to star in principle roles in productions throughout Chicago, earning her a BTAA award for Best Leading Actress in  Bailiwick Chicago's Aida. From there, Rashada attended an open call to audition for Disney's The Lion King where she was #407. After three auditions, she landed the role and went on to travel the nation with her daughter by her side. 

Upon returning home, she continued to work in theater where she received 3 Jeff Award nominations for Best Lead Actress in Caroline or Change, Best Ensemble Performance in Dynamite Divas and Best Lead Actress in Black White Love Play. 

She believes the best is still yet to come.