SHADE By: Khadijah Davis

Overview

Originally developed as my Independent Study thesis performance to complete my BFA Acting degree overseas in Jamaica, I’m now so proud and excited to share this work here in Philly and bring it to my hometown. The American premiere of my self-written solo show SHADE marks a big moment in my journey as both an artist and a storyteller.

SHADE is a coming-of-age story that follows the life of Kissandra, a Jamaican Afro-American girl caught in the tug-of-war between ambition and conformity. Raised to dream big and believe in herself, Kissandra grows up surrounded by love and encouragement — enough to keep her spark blazing. But over time, the world around her begins to reveal its expectations, its boxes, and its limits for who she’s allowed to be.

As Kissandra grows up, she has to decide: will she shrink herself to fit in, or risk being different — and maybe even lonely — by staying true to who she really is?

Come see SHADE to find out what’s waiting for her on the other side of that choice… and how standing in your full self can shift not just your own life, but the lives of everyone around you.

Why try to fit in, when you were born to stand out?

About the Artist

Hi! My name is Khadijah Davis. I’m a proud Jamerican (Jamaican-American) multidisciplinary artist and a recent BFA Acting graduate from the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts located in Kingston, Jamaica the first and only of its kind in the English-speaking Caribbean. I’m originally from Philly, and after spending the last few years studying, creating, and performing abroad, I returned last July and have been slowly but surely finding my rhythm back in the city.

My work explores identity, truth, and all the ways we grow into (and sometimes out of) ourselves. I love blending storytelling, movement, and performance to reflect the layers that make us who we are. While in Jamaica, I also started a small production company and collaborated on several stage and screen projects. My team is still based there, but I’m excited to begin building new creative partnerships here in Philly too.

This is my first time taking part in the Philly Fringe Festival, and I’m truly grateful to be here. I believe live performance can open hearts, shift perspectives, and spark connection — and I’m committed to continuing that exploration through every piece I create.

Credits