Welcome to Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe’s home for on-demand streaming video! In this video, Founder & Artistic Director Nate Jacobs interviews powerhouse singer and actor Tarra Conner jones.

Tarra is a favorite of WBTT audiences, wowing fans with her unforgettable roles in Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, Ain’t Misbehavin’, Black Nativity, A Motown Christmas and many other shows. She will add another feather to her cap — as playwright — when her one-act, one-woman play about Broadway diva and TV star Nell Carter, From Birmingham to Broadway, premieres in May 2022 as part of WBTT’s New Playwrights Series, sharing the stage with another original one-act play, Float Like a Butterfly, about sports and civil rights icon Muhammad Ali. Watch the video to learn more about Tarra and From Birmingham to Broadway! Closed captions are available.

We hope you enjoyed Nate Jacobs’ visit with Tarra Conner jones. Click below to watch clips of Tarra from some of her most memorable WBTT performances! Closed captions are available.

Tarra Conner jones is best known for her powerhouse voice and captivating presence. Her most notable works include Chicago: The Musical (Matron Morton), Ain’t Misbehavin' (Nell), Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom (Ma Rainey), The Color Purple (Sofia/Church Lady Darlene), Hairspray (Motormouth Maybelle), Buddy Holly (Apollo Performer), Shrek: The Musical (Dragon, Mama Ogre/Bear), and Here Is Love (an original work showcased in WBTT’s Young Artist Program). Tarra performed in WBTT’s A Motown Christmas at the Sarasota Opera House in 2019 and played the Archangel Gabriel in WBTT’s Black Nativity at the Opera House in 2018, and in previous productions of the show. She dedicates every performance to the memory of her mother, Ms. Chonita G. Conner, who cheers for her girl from the wings of heaven. Follow Tarra on facebook.com/tarra.c.jones, Instagram: tarraconnerjones, tarraconnerjones.com

Did you miss any of our previous interviews with WBTT favorites? Click on the links below to watch them now!

Stay tuned for more songs and stories from your favorite WBTT performers — plus videos of vintage WBTT performances and special events!