On December 5, at the Gateway Family YMCA Rahway Branch, the performers of Just Be You Performing Arts, under the direction of Mahogany Reynolds-Clarke, founder and Executive Director, celebrated their one year anniversary with a spectacular showcase open to the general public. The mission of Just Be You Performing Arts is to build self-esteem, and provide positive, enriching guidance for young people. “Who Am I” is the organization’s debut talent show which showcases talent of children ages 5 through 18. The children have been working very hard to present a spectacular show which features dance, song, modeling and acting, in the form of a short play produced and directed by Reynolds-Clarke and co-created by the artists themselves. Jafra Cosmetics, under the direction of District Manager Vicel Guzman who sponsored the event, featured free samples, beauty treatments and giveaways to all the guests.
An exciting highlight in the showcase was a special guest appearance by Ray’uana Aleyce, Project Runway Model and Winner of Season 12. Ray’uana speaks to youth groups throughout the country on finding positive outlets to express themselves through art, music and culture. Devon Jay Hawg, a phenomenal music theater performer was also on hand to sing as well as to help manage the children’s individual performances. Reynolds-Clarke, expressed thanks to the Gateway Family YMCA Rahway Branch and believes it was an ideal venue since they share common values of community and family enrichment. She also gave thanks to her husband, Dale Clarke as the creative force behind the Just Be You Performing Arts commercial demo reel, all promotional materials, and photography for the event. Reynolds-Clarke is proud that they are able to work together to build this organization for children as well as their own son, Jeremiah, for which they are striving to build a legacy.
A portion of the showcase proceeds are going toward a scholarship program designed for young performing artists that demonstrates excellence in academics and the arts and is in honor of Reynolds-Clarke’s mother – the Judith Ann Reynolds Memorial Scholarship of Excellence Fund. An additional ten percent of the proceeds will be donated to the nonprofit organization Rahway Food for Friends, which offers food and health services to Rahway residents. “In addition to building artists for a professional career we also foster a spirit of leadership and community service so the children will grow up to be civic-minded adults”, said Reynolds-Clarke. The showcase ended with the young artists singing Christmas carols to celebrate the holiday season. It was certainly a memorable night for all who attended.
Mahogany Reynolds-Clarke is a proud member of the Rahway Chamber of Commerce and can be reached at 848-250-6724 or through her email at justbeyou.contact@gmail.com. For the promotional website for the “Who Am I” Showcase, please visit www.justbeyouperformingarts.org
(above) Mahogany Reynolds-Clark (far left) with her Showcase group of guests and performers.
Photo by Dale Clarke
