03/12/2026
The John McLinn Ross Players are proud to present: The Spaces We Keep, written and directed by Taijee and featuring writing from UAPB scholar Jackson Williams.
Through a series of powerful moments, the piece explores life, mental health, grief, belonging, and the quiet spaces Black men carry within them. Interwoven with poetic interludes, The Spaces We Keep asks an urgent question: what happens when Black men are finally given the room to speak, to feel, and to be seen?
The production makes its debut on the campus of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff in Caldwell Hall. All performances are free and open to the public. There is language not suitable for all ages.
Parking information will be shared soon. For questions, please email [email protected] or watch for our instructional video releasing next week.
Cast Spotlight: Marcel Haynes
Marcel Haynes was born in Riverside, California, and later graduated from Dumas New Tech High School. He is currently a sophomore at the University and serves as the Secretary for the John McLinn Ross Players. Marcel is majoring in General Music with a minor in Theatre, aspiring to become a music therapist.
During high school, Marcel earned numerous musical honors, including receiving Division I ratings in Solo and Ensemble for band, making First Band and Choir at All-Region, and qualifying for state in both multiple times. These accomplishments helped inspire his decision to pursue a degree in music.
At UAPB, Marcel has performed at several notable events, including appearances connected to the Dallas Mavericks, the SWAC Championships in Atlanta, and the 2025 Honda Battle of the Bands.
In theatre, Marcel participated in the 2025 NASTA Competition and portrayed the character Grady in UAPB’s 2025 production of The Color Purple.
“Even in a star’s final moments, its light never truly dies; instead, it is born anew.”
— Marcel Haynes
