Meet The Team

Shiek Mahmud-Bey

It’s rare in Tinsel Town that you find an actor who has built up an impressive body of work in theater, film and television. Shiek Mahmud-Bey is one of Hollywood’s most talented actors who continue to evolve in the entertainment industry. In addition to his
work in front of the camera and on stage, Mahmud-Bey is active in a number of independent projects, which he’s written, acted and directed and produced. He is founder of Char’Actors Acting Company and founder of Shiek Studio acting school. He is also president of 25th Frame Film, his own production company. Mahmud-Bey just completed production of several independent films
that are awaiting release.” The amazing journey of Shiek Mahmud-Bey continues with many exciting projects about to be released!

Katja Sarkish Stewart

Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York grew up the only child to Anthony Coburn and Cynthia Stewart. Katja was inspired at a young age to be an entertainer by her father who was a singer. At the age of 13 moved to Dallas, Texas where she stayed until her high school graduation. Never forgetting her dreams of being an entertainer, Katja returned to New York and started going out on auditions. Initially, she first began by modeling. Doing photoshoots and fashion shows was fun but she quickly realized this was not where her heart was. Malcolm X had always been one of Katja’s favorite movies and is the movie that pushed her into acting. Deeply moved by the performance of Denzel Washington she was inspired to do the same thing for other people. Following her heart, she signed up for acting classes at Shiek Studio and credits this to being the best decision of her life. Finally finding her purpose and calling she has consistently been in class learning, growing, and working on perfecting her craft. Most recently Katja was lead in Unrequited Love. A film written by her and directed by Shiek Mahmud-Bey. She is working on getting an agent. Looking forward to doing a lot more film and television. Also, on her list this year is to direct her own short.

Carol MW

is a talented actress and voice-over artist with a diverse range of skills. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing from Michigan State University. Although her academic background could have led her toward different career paths, Carol is most passionate about performing—whether in front of or behind the camera, or on stage.

Her journey in the entertainment industry began when a church member invited her to host a reality TV show, “The I do wedding show.” This opportunity sparked her interest in auditioning for commercials, films, and stage plays in Detroit, Michigan, her hometown. Carol made her stage debut in the gospel musical “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,” playing Trina, the protective sister. She then moved into a bold gangster role as Baby Girl in “Danger at my Door.” Her most challenging co-starring role came in “I Need a Man,” where she portrayed Rhonda, a bossy and insecure sister and party girl.

Beyond the stage, Carol has appeared in numerous films, including “Chasing after you” and “Not left in vegas?” She has also made guest appearances on Detroit’s local TV20 sitcom "Because We're Men" and had a featured role on the nationally syndicated television show “Empire.”

Carol is presently cast in several upcoming projects, including short films, a feature film, and the TV series "Smokin Good" and "Fault Gamma." Her experience continues to grow as she studies her craft and expands her talents.

Carol is a member of the production company The Char’Actors Collective and the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She enjoys spending her free time with her daughter, Alexandria, her granddaughter, Blake, her family, sorority sisters, and her family dogs: Samson, a loving Coton de Tulear, and Pluto, a rambunctious Cockapoo.

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Blair Ellison

Blair Ellison is an accomplished IT Professional and owner of Ellison Media and Design. Ellison Media and Design, is a creative studio dedicated to delivering high-quality graphic design, web design, and print solutions for businesses, nonprofits, and entrepreneurs. Built on a foundation of clean, modern aesthetics and strategic branding, EMD specializes in creating visually compelling identities, responsive websites, and professional marketing materials—from business cards to full-scale brand packages. With a focus on both creativity and functionality, EMD helps clients bring their ideas to life while positioning them for growth, visibility, and long-term success.

Riah Atalaya

Riah Atalaya is an actress and published poet known for her emotional depth and grounded presence. She is drawn to layered, psychologically complex roles and brings a strong understanding of human behavior to her performances. With a background in life coaching and storytelling, Riah approaches acting as both craft and transformation.

Dani Luv

Dani Luv is an infectious, energetic creative with a height of 4 foot 7, but an energy of 6 foot 9. She’s does mostly  clean comedy, is an actress, singer and author whose goal is to spread love and encouragement.

She is the author of the book Love Hates Me, has a bachelors of Psychology with a minor in theatre. 

Dani Luv opened for Tiffany Haddish, hosted for Sydney Castillo, Mark Ricodonna and Tee Sanders and has guest spot twice for Tony Baker.

Dani Luv won the Funny ASL comedy competition and has performed on stages such as Punchline in Detroit, One Night Stand, Detroit House of Comedy, The Independent Comedy club, Mark Ridleys Comedy Castle, the Ambrosia Theatre and The Alley Stage in Atlanta and the Funny Bone in Toledo. 

She has acted in various Short films, plays and commercials. 

CJ Hamlett

Born in Detroit, Michigan, CJ Hamlett is a versatile actor whose journey into the arts is rooted in resilience and purpose. Acting became both his calling and his healing, fueling performances grounded in passion, strength, and authenticity. CJ brings depth and determination to every role, using his craft to inspire and connect through powerful storytelling.

Paige B. Alston

Paige is a Detroit-based, award-winning director, editor, and founder of an independent production company. With a foundation in Film, Video, and Media Studies from Western Michigan University, she has built a reputation for creating "Cinematic, Soulful, and Intentional" content. Her directorial credits include CHASING AFTER YOU, MEETING BOONE, and THE DEVIL IS A LIAR. From national artist showcases to leading her own full-service production house, Paige’s work is driven by a passion for inspiring narratives and a high standard for visual storytelling. She remains dedicated to elevating creative visions through a lens of faith and technical mastery across both production and post-production.

Kimberly Pruitt

Kimberly Pruitt is an award-winning writer, filmmaker, and communications strategist from Saginaw, Michigan. Educated at Delta College, Howard University, and Saginaw Valley State University, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in English, Kimberly began her career in New York City’s film industry, working on major projects such as Spike Lee’s Netflix series She’s Gotta Have It, as well as his one-man stage show Rodney King, and filming the 50th Independence celebration of Barbados featuring Prince Harry and Rihanna.

After returning to Michigan, Kimberly joined Morley Companies, where she directed a Type 1 Diabetes awareness project that earned an American Advertising Award (Addy) in 2019. She later launched TriValley Stories, her production company dedicated to film, corporate, and community storytelling. Through TriValley Stories, her work has appeared on national platforms and helped organizations shape compelling, authentic narratives.

Kimberly currently serves as the Communications & Marketing Coordinator for Saginaw Intermediate School District, where she leads district-wide storytelling, video production, social media strategy, and brand development efforts. She also collaborates with NFL Super Bowl Champion and filmmaker LaMarr Woodley as a writer and assistant director on developing projects under Area 56 Productions.

Deeply committed to community, Kimberly serves on the boards of the Spark Artistic Mentorship Program and the Saginaw Juneteenth Celebration. She is also the 2nd Vice President and Director of Marketing & Communications for the Charles McNair Freedom School of Saginaw, where she helps lead countywide efforts to amplify youth voice, literacy, and joyful learning. She is dedicated to amplifying stories that center community, culture, and impact.

Most recently, Kimberly was honored with the Saginaw NAACP Young Professionals Award for her professional achievements and community leadership.

Lancelot Theobald Jr.

Lancelot Theobald Jr is an actor dedicated to truthful, character-driven storytelling. Grounded in discipline and emotional authenticity, he brings depth, presence, and intention to every role he inhabits. 

Focused on continuous training and craft development, Lancelot approaches acting with preparation, humility, and purpose. He is building a body of work rooted in substance, consistency, and respect for the art—bringing stories to life that resonate with honesty and impact.

 Film

 •The Veteran — Maxwell Cade, CEO Blackwood Global Investments ( 2026 )

• The Security Guard (2025) — Democratic Senator Jabari Williams  

• Oculus (2024) — Army Officer James Carter  

• Hilo 3 (2023) — Dr. Martin Langston  

• Eddie (2020) — Johnny  ( Dance Teacher )

• At the Top of the Pyramid (2014) — Alan Williams  

Brooklyn Bound ( 2004 )

 • Drug Dealer

 Television

• The Last O.G. (2021) — Cousin Lance (1 episode)  

He’s also a producer, a master tap dancer, and the creator of the T3 Tap Technique, a methodology that’s transforming how tap is taught in dance schools.

But that’s just part of his journey.

He’s also a #1 bestselling author of:“They Haven’t Made An Ax That Can Chop Down A Dream”

and the host of “The Power Of Reinvention” on Roku’s Idefine TV and Co  host  of the “NYC  Mastermind Experience” on Apple Podcast. A TV show and Podcast where he dives deep with guests who’ve  reinvented themselves and others who’ve

Duane Shabazz

A professional film and stage actor and writer. He got his start in acting in theatre at age 13 with Mosaic Youth Theatre of Detroit. He has a master’s degree in acting from NYU Grad Acting. His favorite thing to do on his down time is play basketball, long walks, video games and learning more about the cosmos. The film that sparked Duane’s interest in the arts was High School Musical.

Erin Ealy

Erin Ealy is a multidisciplinary storyteller — actress, filmmaker, and creative strategist — committed to building a body of work defined by emotional depth and cultural resonance. With experience both in-front of and behind the camera, she develops and embodies layered characters that explore identity, transformation, and resilience — building a body of work designed for longevity and impact.

John Joseph

John Joseph is thrilled to be a member of the Char'Actors. He is currently a candidate for Master's of Fine Arts in Acting at New York Film Academy Los Angeles. Some of his credentials include a supporting role in the short film Prodigal (New York), ensemble cast member in the stage play In Due Season )new York), and most recently a role in Sideline Obsession.(Detroit). While he is not acting or training, John Joseph enjoys riding his motorcycle and experiencing other forms of art. 

Daniela Acedo

Daniela is a Detroit-based actress originally from Venezuela. She is currently taking acting

classes at Shiek Studios and with Creative Kids, and she also has a background in theatre.

Daniela is passionate about telling emotional stories through her work. In her free time, she

enjoys dancing and reading.

Quentin Minor

Quentin Minor is a Detroit-based actor known for grounded, emotionally layered performances across drama, suspense, and character-driven storytelling. With experience in independent film, scene study, and ongoing actor training, he brings authenticity, strong instincts, and a compelling on-screen presence to each role. Quentin is especially drawn to complex characters whose inner conflicts and emotional truths drive the story.