Today we’d like to introduce you to Joandrea Reynolds, she shared her story with us below:
In childhood, the introduction to writing occurred and birthed the desire to put forth creative works in various forms such as: songwriting, poetry, and short stories. In the 4th grade, Joandrea co-wrote her first song explaining a child’s optimism for the future. In 6th grade she learned the basis for creative writing and wrote her initial poem depicting a pre-teen’s drive from a lower-income community to a higher-income neighborhood, and the daily altering between two worlds. By 8th grade, Ms. Reynolds entered a national short story competition in which she won third place. Joandrea’s writings have been printed in newspapers, magazines and other publications, her quote “words can heal or hinder depending on their use” speaks volumes to the power of words and how one needs to be wise with their usage. In addition to being a writer Joandrea is an actress, poet, producer and director.
In November 2017 Ms. Reynolds founded JTainment LLC, a production company over which she is the chief, its purpose is to bring arts to stages across the world. In the summer of 2018, Stages of Understanding, a theatrical production written, directed and produced by Joandrea took to the stage. Derived from her book of poetry, short stories and quotes, Stages of Understanding has run consistently on stages throughout Los Angeles County, with the most recent production occurring July 29, 2023 in Hollywood, CA. Joandrea held the title of assistant to Leah Daniels Butler from whom she was honored to work under and learn intricate processes inclusive in casting.
Joandrea’s love for the arts and public speaking were merged to form a mentoring program in which she teaches elementary students how to write poetry; in 2023 Joandrea instructed multiple classes as a vendor through the Los Angeles Unified School District. As a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated, she acquired a deep belief in the responsibility of providing service to others and the truth of sisterhood. Ms. Reynolds is a community activist who possesses a rooted belief in the need to speak up for those unable to do so for themselves. The earliest involvement she recalls pertaining to social action occurred at age 16 when she organized, rallied, then led numerous Black high school students on a walk-out from school due to the unfair treatment of Black males on the campus.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The journey has been taxing at times but overall the learned lessons, experience and personal growth obtained make it worth the struggles endured. When working for betterment as an emerging artist, challenges stemming from dishonesty and selfishness of others as well as opposition posed by self in different forms will occur. My overcoming comes through consistency to honing the craft and maintaining faith and hope in the future through Yahweh. It doesn’t hurt having a boisterous voice, stage presence and professionalism.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Aside from the arts, other things I do are: travel the world, remain physically active, eat a lot of spicy foods and coordinate my family gatherings.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
Contact Info:
- Instagram: www.INSTAGRAM.COM/joandreagenice
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/joandrea.reynolds
- Twitter: @JoandreaReynol1
- Email: [email protected]
Image Credits
Stages of Understanding Cast
