08/14/2025
We are proud to honor Jermaine Nakia Lee — a celebrated songwriter, playwright, stage director, producer, arts educator, culture agent, and community advocate whose work bridges the power of storytelling with the preservation of Black history and culture.
His acclaimed musicals FOR THE LOVE OF HARLEM and A WALK IN MY SHOES have enjoyed sold-out audiences, critical praise, and national tours, cementing his place as a transformative voice in American theatre. As Education & Outreach Director for Brand New Sheriff Productions — Charlotte’s only African American repertory theatre - Jermaine is shaping the next generation of artists and audiences.
A Kennedy Center-trained and certified Master Teaching Artist, Jermaine has brought his expertise to every major museum and arts institution in the region. He is also a trailblazing advocate, co-founding Charlotte Black Pride, SC Black Pride, and Triangle Black Pride, and leading initiatives like POOR NO MORE, which provides essential resources to Charlotte residents, and KUUMBA Academy, a fellowship for creatives of color in the region.
His trailblazing work has earned numerous honors, including Charlotte’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Medallion Award, recognition as Person of the Year by QNotes Carolinas, and the inaugural Arts & Science Council Founder’s Grant for contributions to arts, culture, and community advocacy.
Join us at the Gold Tie Gayla as we celebrate Jermaine’s extraordinary contributions to the preservation and advancement of Black arts and heritage.
Friday, August 29
Harvey B. Gantt Center
7:30 PM
