J. Bernard Calloway

J. Bernard Calloway starred as 'Delray Jones' in the Broadway production of Memphis, which played at the Shubert Theatre from 23 Sep 2009 - 5 Aug 2012.

Birthday is?
2 Dec 1974.

Place of birth?
Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

You currently live in?
N.Y.C. (Harlem).

Did you go to training school, if so which one?
B.A. in Theatre Alabama State University, M.F.A. in Acting Brandeis University, Summer Intensive at Shakespeare & Company with Tina Packer.

As an actor, do you have a preference for stage, tv or film?
All are really fulfilling for me.

Your first stage performance?
Playing Tom Robinson in To Kill a Mockingbird. Montana Repertory Theatre.

Career highlight to date?
The Taking of Pelham 123 (film debut), The Good Negro (The Public Theatre of NYC) and Memphis (Broadway debut).

What roles would you most like to play?
Honestly, any role with sustenance and integrity. Something that will engage the audiences conscience.

What's the best advice you have ever received?
Less is more.

What is the most annoying part about your job?
Waiting 15 minutes after places is called to start the show.

Briefly tell us how you become involved with Memphis?
Back in 2003 I auditioned for North Shore Musical Theatre at Chelsea Studios.

Briefly tell us about the character you play in Memphis?
Delray is a club owner on Beale Street in Memphis, Tennessee who has aspirations of becoming a music producer. He highlights his club venue with his sister Felicia's brilliant voice. The integrity of the normal way of life is interrupted when Huey comes into the picture, who happens to be white. Huey falls in love with Felicia and Delray's music and Delray spends the majority of the show protecting them both, his sister and the music.

If you had not become a performer, what might you have done instead?
An NFL player, vocalist and musician.

Who are your favorite actors?
James Earl Jones, Denzel Washington, Sidney Poitier, Al Pacino, Kate Blanchett, and Angela Bassett to name a few.

What was the last book you read, and name some of your favorite authors?
Cashflow Quadrant. August Wilson and Lorraine Hansberry.

What was the last film you saw, and name some of your favorite movies?
Shuuter Island. Superman 1&2, The Godfather ( all of them), The Color Purple, X and Friday.

Favorite TV programs?
Heroes, The Price is Right and Sports Center.

Favorite holiday destinations?
Kauai, Hawaii.

Do you have any hobbies?
Chess, working out, spending time with my wife.

If you were stranded on a desert island, what 3 items would you take with you?
My wife, music, and plenty of food.

What are your future plans?
Honestly, to have success and longevity in the entertainment industry.