When Regina J. Banks founded The Vanguart Performing Arts Foundation, she envisioned a company dedicated to creating opportunities for African-American artists in Oklahoma City. The Life Cycle of a Butterfly, written and directed by La’Charles Purvey, marks the foundation’s debut production and a deeply personal project for Banks, who stars as Sunni—a character confronting trauma and transformation.

“I feel so free, and I feel like I’m living a new life,” Banks shares, noting the parallels between her personal journey and Sunni’s. “I bring that to Sunni’s character. … I am growing, and I am emerging out of my own chrysalis.”

Balancing the roles of founder, producer, and lead actress, Banks has created a space where challenging narratives like Sunni’s can unfold with authenticity, surrounded by a diverse, supportive cast and crew. The Vanguart’s purpose goes beyond performance, embodying Banks’ commitment to building pathways for Black artists to tell their stories.

Read the full article for an in-depth look at Banks’ vision and the powerful production bringing it to life. [Link to Original Article]