A new chapter in Tampa Bay theatre is unfolding as Powerstories Theatre and The Studio@620 join forces for a co-production of Cadillac Crew by Tori Sampson. The play closes Powerstories’ 25th anniversary season while opening Studio@620’s 2025–2026 season, two cherished arts organizations in the region.

Set during a pivotal moment in history, the story centers on four women working in a Virginia civil rights office on the day of a much-anticipated speech by Rosa Parks. These activists wrestle with the question of whether the movement’s promises of equality truly extend to women.

Stories of desegregation and women’s rights

“This production reclaims the stories of the forgotten leaders who blazed the trail for desegregation and women’s rights,” says Studio@620. “On the day of a much-anticipated speech by Rosa Parks during the height of the Civil Rights Movement, four activists working in a Virginia civil rights office wonder whether the proclamation of equality amongst mankind includes women. With remarkable insight and unexpected humor, Cadillac Crew asks: when will the world be ready to embrace women in all their capacities?”

The play explores themes of activism, representation, and erasure with both wit and heart, offering audiences a chance to reflect on whose stories are remembered and why.

A Historic Collaboration

This marks the first full co-production between Powerstories Theatre and Studio@620. The collaboration brings together talent, vision, and community support in a way that amplifies voices often overlooked. The cast features four remarkable performers, Ivy Sunflower, Marjorie Joseph, Jai Shanae, and Andresia Moseley, who bring authenticity to their roles.

Studio@620: A Hub for Bold Storytelling

Located at 620 First Avenue South in St. Petersburg, Studio@620 has been a foundation of the city’s creative scene since the early 2000s. It began as a small space for local artists to develop original plays and experiment with storytelling. Over time, it has grown into a platform for diverse voices and for producing work that connects audiences.

By collaborating with Powerstories Theatre, which is a nonprofit professional theatre dedicated to staging true stories of women and girls to open minds and hearts and inspire action worldwide, Studio@620 continues its mission of amplifying underrepresented voices while providing a space for stories that resonate with contemporary audiences.

Performance Information

Cadillac Crew is directed by Erica Sutherlin and co-produced by Powerstories Theatre. Performances run:

November 6-8 and 13-15 at 7:30 PM

November 9 and 16 at 3:00 PM

Tickets:

General Admission: $40

Studio Member or Senior: $35

Groups of ten or more: $33

Student or Preview: $25

Groups of ten or more can reserve seats by emailing development@thestudioat620.org.

Cadillac Crew flyer| Photo via Studio@620