Full Cast announced for American premiere of Alwin Bully’s Caribbean drama "McBee"

The eagerly anticipated American premiere of Alwin Bully’s Caribbean drama "McBee" is set to take place on Sunday, June 23 at 7 PM at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center (JPAC) in Jamaica, Queens. Theatergoers can enjoy a complimentary Golden Krust Caribbean Cuisine Reception starting at 5:30 PM.

The accomplished ensemble cast includes Yinka Adey, Actor Boy Award nominee Jerry Benzwick, two-time Audelco Award nominee Dianne Dixon, Gerard Joseph, Mitzie Pratt, and Oniros Film Award winner James Duke Walker. They join the previously announced Luke Forbes (Amazon Prime’s "Harlem"), Denise Hunt ("How Stella Got Her Groove Back"), Miranda Melhado (Amazon Prime’s "Amityville Vampire"), Emilio Evans (Allblk TV’s "Makeup X Breakup"), and three-time Actor Boy Award winner Karl O’Brian Williams. The production is directed by Broadway World Award winner David Heron, who also serves as the event’s producer.

First time in the United States

Bully’s play, inspired by William Shakespeare’s "Macbeth," will be performed in the U.S. for the first time as a staged reading, honoring the late playwright. This event is part of New York City’s celebration of Caribbean American Heritage Month in June.

Set on an unnamed Caribbean island in the recent past, "McBee" follows politicians Allan and Alice McBee (played by Forbes and Hunt). On the night of his re-election, Allan encounters three mysterious Rastafarians who prophesize that he will become Prime Minister. Spurred by his ambitious wife, he embarks on a bloody quest to fulfill the prediction, with explosive consequences for both themselves and the nation.

Yinka Adey, Dianne Dixon, and Gerard Joseph portray the three Rastafarians. Mitzie Pratt and James Duke Walker play politicians in the McBee’s circle, while Jerry Benzwick brings humor as Peter, the McBee household’s butler.

Adey, who plays Rastafarian Prince Ras, has previously starred in acclaimed productions such as "Imbroglio" and "The Black That I Am." He is the founder of Monologue Roulette!, a creative developmental workshop. His film credits include "The Beautiful Ghost" and the upcoming "Caribbean Queen."

Dianne Dixon, portraying Queen Ras, is a two-time Audelco Award nominee known for her roles in "Jamaica" and "Dinner at The Manse." Her recent stage work includes "Mama Decemba" and "Chasing Grave," while her screen appearances feature "We Are New York," "RURI," and "Victims."

Gerard Joseph, as Bredda D, returns to the New York stage after performing in productions like "The First Deep Breath" and "Blueprints to Freedom." His screen work includes "Meat Puppet," "Dogpark," "Hiding Spot," and "Fish Priest."

Jerry Benzwick, playing Peter, earned an Actor Boy Award nomination under Bully’s direction for "Oroonoko." He has performed in "God’s Way," "Single Entry," and films like "The Last Britons" and "Nothing But Ghosts."

Mitzie Pratt takes on the role of Mabel Angus. Her career highlights include the Sundance Grand Jury Prize-winning film "Nanny" and the series "Love My Roomie." On stage, she has appeared in "God’s Way," "Feminine Justice," and "A Song For You."

James Duke Walker, as Vere Duncan Jr., was discovered while working as a construction worker. He has since performed in "Bro" at Manhattan Repertory Theatre, "Against His Will" at Manhattan Theatre Club, and TV shows like "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" and "Diabolical." He won the Oniros Film Award for "Roadside Assistance."

The American Premiere of "McBee" is presented in association with Kendel Instant Ginger Teas, The True Tribute Organization, IMC Media, and Results Promo and Marketing. Tickets are available at mcbeetheplay.eventbrite.com.

The Jamaica Performing Arts Center is located at 153-10 Jamaica Avenue, Jamaica, NY, 11432.