The Collective Mic Productions
Interdisciplinary, Music, Theater
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Twenty years later, Jade Thomas, Ivette Garcia, and Jasmin Kennedy reunite carrying the emotional weight of war, military sexual trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and the difficult transition from military life back into civilian society. Their bond is forever shaped by the loss of their friend, Anna Red Bear, who was killed in action during deployment in Iraq. Together, these women confront painful memories while searching for healing, understanding, and hope.
As the play moves through different stages of military life—from boot camp to deployment and life after service—it sheds light on the unique struggles women veterans face, many of which are often overlooked or left unspoken. Their stories reveal the emotional cost of service while honoring the resilience, strength, and contributions of women in the armed forces.
Not Without Her Stories is more than a performance; it is a call to break the culture of silence surrounding women veterans’ experiences. By sharing their truths openly, these women encourage others to find their voices, seek healing, and build community through sisterhood. Honest, emotional, and deeply human, this production honors the courage of military women whose stories deserve to be seen, heard, and remembered.
Cannonball is the largest hub of the Philadelphia Fringe Festival, championing a revolutionary artist-led model that prioritizes equity, experimentation, and community connection. Now in its sixth year, Cannonball presents more than 100 artists across five stages, representing nearly 30 percent of the overall Philadelphia Fringe Festival. From rebellious circus and delicious dance to fearless theater and activist art, Cannonball pushes the boundaries of live performance while creating a vibrant, artist-centered ecosystem for independent performance makers and adventurous audiences alike.
PWYC Options $5+
Venue: Asian Arts Initiative Third Floor 
September 8, 2026 8.45pm
1219 Vine Street
General Admission: $25
PWYC Options
September 11, 2026 7.15pm
1219 Vine Street
General Admission: $25
PWYC Options
September 13, 2026 3.15pm
1219 Vine Street
General Admission: $25
PWYC Options
About the Artist
Artist Bios
Jody Austin and Tiffani Dean are the Co-Founders of The Collective Mic, LLC/The Collective Mic Productions, a BIPOC women and woman veteran co-owned Philadelphia-based arts organization dedicated to uplifting diverse voices through theater, literature, film, poetry, music, and visual arts. Together, they have created a vibrant artistic platform that empowers artists through storytelling, mentorship, education, and community engagement.
Jody Austin is an award-winning playwright, author, screenwriter, poet, musician, executive producer, and multidisciplinary artist whose work focuses on healing, social awareness, and artistic expression. In addition to her work in theater and literature, she is a passionate teaching artist committed to nurturing emerging creatives and expanding opportunities for artists within local communities.
Tiffani Dean is an accomplished author, playwright, screenwriter, poet, executive producer, doll artist, visual artist, and teaching artist. As Co-Founder and COO of The Collective Mic, she has helped shape the organization into a thriving creative hub that supports artists across multiple disciplines. Her work has captivated audiences through compelling storytelling and artistic innovation, while her leadership continues to foster artistic growth throughout Philadelphia’s arts community. Tiffani also serves as a Barrymore Awards Nominator, recognizing excellence in regional theater.
Together, Jody and Tiffani also co-founded Family Poetry Collective, The Collective Mic School of the Arts, and The Collective Mic Art Gallery & Arts Café. Through their shared vision, they continue to provide artists with meaningful opportunities to create, perform, learn, and thrive in a supportive, family-oriented environment.
Company Bio
Co-founded by Jody Austin and Tiffani Dean, The Collective Mic, LLC/The Collective Mic Productions is a Philadelphia-based arts organization dedicated to providing a voice, stage, and platform for artists of all d
- Jody AustinPlaywright and DirectorTheCollective2014@gmail.com
- Tiffani DeanPlaywright and Assistant Directortifthediva@gmail.com
- Syeeda WilsonStage Manager
- Edgar Lee FaucettStage Managereleefaucett@gmail.com
- Amanda WashingtonDr. Sewellamndobbswinter2016@gmail.com
- Skye EnglandJasmine Kennedykimengland7@gmail.com
- Anitra OliverIvette GarciaOliveranitra@yahoo.com
- Natasha L MasonJade DavisStagequeen71@gmail.com
- David LeeSgt Smithdlee9206@gmail.com
- Alexys NaranjoAnna Red Bearalexysnaranjo@gmail.com
- Briyanna VaughnJade Davis (young)Briyannavaughn1@gmail.com
- TBD CastIvette Garcia (young)
- TBD CastJasmine Kennedy (young)
Accessibility & Content Considerations
Contact the Fringe Festival Box Office for up to date accessibility information.
This event is appropriate for ages 18+
Adult Language
Strobe/Flashing Lights
Trigger warnings regarding themes of PTSD, MST, Depression, Anxiety, War
Covid-19 Safety policy
This event does not require masks to be worn
Copyright © 2026 Philadelphia Fringe Festival
140 N. Columbus Blvd.
(at Race St.)
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Directions
Tickets: 215.413.1318
Admin Office: 215.413.9006
