Michelle Nicole Matlock is a performing artist, creative coach, teacher, director, producer and founder of Circle Up Productions (CUP), a live entertainment and performing arts education company based in Tacoma, WA.

Michelle has been a part of the entertainment industry for over 25 years and had the honor of being the first African American Person to create a main character for Cirque du Soleil. They toured with Cirque’s big top show OVO for close to 10 years.

Currently Michelle is an Adjunct faculty member at Dell’Arte International School for Physical Theater and a member of the Puget Sound Revels creative team. Recently Michelle was Clown Director/Consultant for Circus Bella and Emmy nominated actress’ Carolyn Ratteray’s solo show Both And…A Play About Laughing While Black.

Michelle has continuous teaching engagements and collaborations with organizations across the nation including, Clown Gym, Bindlestiff Family Cirkus, The Clown School, Laughter League, Circus Amok and Tacoma Light Trail

Michelle grew up in Tacoma, WA., studied theater for 3 years at Western Washington University in Bellingham, WA. and is a Graduate of the National Shakespeare Conservatory in New York City.

Jaelynn Scott, M.Div. (she/her), serves as the Executive Director of LRP. Jaelynn offers guidance to community groups, nonprofits, and politicians, promoting the importance of centering Black lives through the lens of Black trans feminism. In her movement-building efforts, Jaelynn aims to increase access to power and decision-making opportunities for Black trans leaders. She has assisted religious organizations and nonprofits in radically reimagining their policies and procedures, as well as expanding and refocusing their work towards racial and gender equity. As an ordained minister, Jaelynn regularly preaches and facilitates workshops.

Lavender Rights Project

Ariyah Jané Albert (She/Her) is a Black trans woman from Montgomery, Alabama. She has spent the majority of her professional life working in DEI education, public, and community relations. Ariyah has a deep love for equity and supporting local non-profits that are bringing resources and programming to communities that otherwise could not. She was led to Seattle, Washington to pastor a trans saint ministry with the Liberation United Church of Christ; from there, Ariyah began providing direct supportive housing services to marginalized community members. Ariyah is extremely passionate about whole person care and acknowledging the connection between an individual’s experiences and their health.

@officiallyariyahjane

Coming Soon!

P Nasty is a first generation queer trans Hmong American multidisciplinary, visionary, and movement artist. An expressionist out here to disrupt social norms!  P Nasty has performed throughout the PNW, has competed in nationwide dance competitions and the kiki ballroom scene. They are a member of the ballroom kiki House of Ada. P Nasty strives to continuously honor the roots of their artistry by uplifting, educating and providing inclusive spaces for folks to learn and explore their truths. Their movement journey has played a significant role as their guidance in seeking their sensuality, self exploration, empowerment and identity. Keep your eyes open as their diverse movement and dynamic energy is accentuated by their colorful expressions every time they hit the floor.

Venmo: @pennisu