“A Mile High in Laughter: My First Out-of-State Comedy Adventure”

There are moments in an artist’s life that feel like checkpoints — the kind that make you pause, breathe, and think, “Yeah… this is why I do it.”

For me, that moment came at the Colorado Queer Comedy Festival, my first out-of-state booking, held in the heart of Boulder at The Dairy Arts Center 10/4  and at the Creeptastic Creepatorium in Denver, 10/5.

I’ve been performing for years — cutting my teeth in the worlds of wrestling, acting, directing, improv, sketch— bringing humor into spaces that aren’t always built to hold it. My comedy started like most good stories do: in the middle of chaos. Between theatre gigs, teaching creative arts, and building spaces where laughter could live alongside healing, I learned that comedy isn’t just about punchlines. It’s about power. It’s about saying the quiet thing out loud and watching a room erupt in recognition.

Colorado Queer Comedy Festival was a whirlwind of that kind of power — joy mixed with truth, community wrapped in glitter, and a lineup full of comics who brought their full selves to the stage. The energy was electric. The audiences were rowdy in the best way, the laughs felt earned, and the connections were instant.

I got to share the stage with some incredible humans: @renqcomedy, @laughing.leoni, @eitancomedy, @dasouzie, among so many others who made the weekend unforgettable. From last-minute saves to spontaneous green-room Yap sessions, it was the kind of creative chaos that fills your lungs with purpose.

And it wasn’t just about the show. It was about being seen — as a Black, fat, queer, disabled performer who uses comedy as both mirror and megaphone. To be part of a festival where that was celebrated, not tolerated, was everything.

When I walked off stage that first night, my heart was pounding like it had just learned a new rhythm. I thought about all the spaces I’ve built and all the stages I’ve stood on — from movement classes to youth theatre, from community centers to comedy clubs. This one felt different. It felt like the next level of something I’ve been building all along: a career that blends comedy, truth-telling, and radical joy.

I left Colorado with my first comedy keepsake (thanks @min_lin_comedy), sore abs from laughing, and a notebook full of ideas for what’s next. Because if this was my first out-of-state show, it’s definitely not the last.

Comedy, for me, has always been about connection — turning pain into punchlines and truth into laughter. Colorado reminded me that no matter where I go, there’s a crowd waiting to laugh with me, not at me.

So here’s to the next stage, the next mic, and the next wild adventure. And to Colorado — thanks for the altitude, the attitude, and the unforgettable love. 🌈🎤✨ xoxo Roni 😈😘

Wrestleverse II: Blood Feud 🩸 March 29, 2025

Step into the shadows of the Wrestleverse II, where mystery and mayhem collide under the dim glow of the ring lights. In Blood Feud, a sharp-witted detective unravels a tangled web of betrayal, as old rivalries, buried secrets, and the echoes of legends past looming in the air, the question remains—who will leave victorious, and who will be left in the dust? Blood on the Ropes… the fight has only begun.

https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/wrestleverserdu/wrestleverse-blood-feud-1148218250

Auditions! LOLBAP is Back in 2025!! ✨💃🏾✨

Audition Notice: Laugh Out Loud: Black and Proud Pt. II: Black Magic 🔮🌟  

Join us for Laugh Out Loud: Black and Proud Pt. II: Black Magic—a sketch comedy show celebrating Black magic, fairy tales, and folklore with a Black twist! We’re seeking talented performers to bring these dynamic, hilarious, and thought-provoking stories to life.  

Audition Details: 

📅 Saturday, January 11, 2025 

📍Frontier RTP: 800 Park Offices Dr, Durham, NC 27713 

🕛 Audition Blocks:  

- 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM  

- 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM  

- 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM  

How to Sign Up:  

Reserve your spot here: [https://shorturl.at/Wz3K8](https://shorturl.at/Wz3K8).  

Audition materials and details will be sent upon confirmation.  

Rehearsals & Shows:  

Rehearsals begin January 12, 2025, at Frontier RTP and run through February.  

Tech rehearsals and shows take place at Mettlesome and Theatre Raleigh Studios.  

Performance dates:  

- February 20–22, 2025 (Mettlesome)  

- February 27–28 & March 1–2, 2025 (Theatre Raleigh Studios)  

This is an ensemble-driven production open to all experience levels. Questions? Email Roninicoler@gmail.com. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the magic!

🙄 Seriously...

Today, I feel compelled to share my experience with a recent production, where my contract was unjustly terminated under the pretense of "scheduling conflicts". This decision not only feels personal but also highlights deeper organisational issues on how this process was handled.  

 

I was not informed about major changes, such as canceled rehearsals in December, nor was I given the final rehearsal schedule in a timely manner. Clear and proactive communication should be the foundation of any successful production, and its absence here created unnecessary confusion and stress. My one actual conflict (outiside those already stated at auditions) with my car was unexpected and I reached out to production team for support because in past productions, stage management facilitated connections between cast members to address logistical challenges like transportation. This time, I was left to navigate these issues alone, with no effort made to foster collaboration or offer solutions. I also faced surprising issues with the director, whom I know (not super well, but we've worked together previously and I respect them a lot) and was totally shocked by how noncommittal, brusque and uncaring they acted. I don't need a pity party or to be coddled but life be lifing and I think everyone understands that. However, the director’s role is to lead and support their cast, yet I felt dismissed and unsupported throughout this ENTIRE process. Instead of fostering a productive and encouraging environment, the lack of support from leadership created barriers that could have been avoided. 

  

The termination of my contract was abrupt, disproportionate, and did not involve a fair discussion of potential solutions. I was not given the opportunity to address or resolve the alleged issues before this decision was made.  Moreover, I was looking forward to this show. It's SO IMPORTANT, especially now, especially here in North Carolina. 

 

This experience has been deeply disappointing, but I’m sharing it to advocate for change. Every artist deserves to be treated with respect, fairness, and dignity. Leadership in the arts must commit to fostering inclusive, supportive environments where creativity and collaboration can thrive.  

To those who have supported me, thank you. To those in leadership, I hope you take this feedback to heart and strive to do better for future productions. We all deserve better.  

Finally, I will ALWAYS speak up for artist and the ways we should be treated AND how organizations can improve. You need my qualifications to do so I can shoot you my CV. 😘

The Arts is often bottlenecked by barriers to entry unfairly. I literally wrote my thesis on this very issue. Sometimes those barriers are circumstances, systemic issues, organization disorganization or sometimes it's people. Regardless? When we know better, we can do better. And we SHOULD be doing better, especially after all of this time. There is no reason that there shouldn't be adequate support within theatre organizations, and there isn't any reason that we shouldn't be always leading with empathy and compassion to all of those artisans who put their bodies, lives and truth on the line to create art.

See y'all in the next production. 🤟🏾💃🏾💕

#TheaterCommunity #SupportArtists #AccountabilityInTheArts #LeadershipMatters  

Heart Of The Arts With Roni Nicole

Since its debut, Heart of the Arts with Roni Nicole has brought incredible stories and conversations to listeners, shining a spotlight on local talent, artistry, and cultural resilience in the Raleigh area. Each Wednesday from 3 to 5 PM, we delve into the heart of what it means to create, build, and support art within our community. From exploring the culinary arts to the world of inclusive dance, each guest has brought their unique voice to the show, inspiring listeners and creating lasting connections through the arts.

Celebrating Diversity in Arts and Culture

We've had the pleasure of featuring guests who are deeply involved in the arts, each making a unique impact through their work. In every episode, we celebrate voices that are often underrepresented, helping to build an arts community that feels inclusive, accessible, and justice-centered. Here’s a look at some of the memorable voices we’ve hosted so far:

- KJ, a queer, fat, Black dancer and writer, joined us for a thought-provoking conversation on creating inclusive spaces through access-centered dance, disability justice, and mutual aid. Their work combines art and activism, challenging traditional standards in dance and encouraging a broader perspective on accessibility. KJ’s insights on the intersections of dance, activism, and community-building set the tone for what it means to create radical change through art.

- Wafeeq Zarif, an emerging comedian in Raleigh, shared his journey as a Muslim comedian whose humor seeks to educate while entertaining. His candid reflections on breaking stereotypes and finding laughter in shared experiences added a fresh perspective to our show. Wafeeq’s commitment to demystifying Islam through comedy was both eye-opening and refreshing, highlighting the powerful role of humor in bridging cultural divides.

- Chef Vernon Dickerson of Chubys Whubsy Cupcakes will bring delicious new flavor to the show this upcoming Wednesday with his insights on the culinary arts and the importance of accessible, community-focused entrepreneurship. His journey in crafting unique cupcake flavors while connecting with the community speaks to the importance of food in cultural expression and community-building. Vernon’s dedication to creating joy and accessibility through his craft was a testament to the powerful connections that food and culture bring.

Each episode of Heart of the Arts has explored a core theme: the transformative power of art in building inclusive, empowered communities. With guests sharing stories of resilience, activism, and creativity, it’s clear that Raleigh’s arts scene is vibrant, diverse, and rooted in shared values of justice and cultural celebration. From the stage to the kitchen, our guests embody the dedication and passion that fuel their respective art forms.

Through this platform, we’ve seen the incredible ways that art is used not only as a means of self-expression but as a tool for change, healing, and community empowerment. Guests have offered invaluable insights on how the arts can foster mutual aid, support marginalized voices, and challenge societal norms. We’re proud to be a space where artists can celebrate their successes, discuss their struggles, and share what inspires them with a broader audience.

As we continue to air new episodes, Heart of the Arts remains committed to bringing the stories of local artists, creators, and change-makers to the forefront. Each guest brings a unique story, offering listeners a chance to learn, laugh, and reflect on the cultural richness of our community. We’re excited to keep exploring new themes in the arts, and we look forward to featuring more inspiring voices from diverse backgrounds.

Thank you to our guests and listeners for making Heart of the Arts such a rewarding journey. Stay tuned as we continue to celebrate the creativity and resilience that make Raleigh’s arts community a force for positive change. 

Listen in every Wednesday from 3 to 5 PM on WRLY-LP / 93.5 FM, and join us as we continue to share the Heart of the Arts with Roni Nicole!

Our Hues Goes Live At Raleigh Fringe Festival!

“Our Hues Are Enuff To Withstand The Storm: A Celebration of Black Womanhood”

By: Roni Nicole

"Our Hues" is a powerful, heartfelt production that serves as a spiritual successor to Ntozake Shange's seminal work, "For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf." This poignant one-act choreopoem weaves together the lives of six Black women, each named after various shades of melanin, as they navigate the complexities of identity, love, grief, loss, and triumph.

In the intimate timeless settings, these women—Beige, Brown Sugar, Chestnut, Cocoa, Cinnamon, and Umber—come together to share stories, reflect on their journeys, and build sisterhood. Each character brings a unique perspective, reflecting their experiences growing up in well-known Black communities across America. Their tales of battling depression, overcoming sexual assault, embracing their identities, and celebrating their cultural heritage are told through a mix of monologues, dialogues, and choreographed movement.

As they recount their personal histories, they draw strength from each other, celebrating their unique qualities and the bonds that unite them. The production is rich with evocative language and vibrant imagery, creating a tapestry of experiences that honor the resilience and beauty of Black womanhood.

- Beige: A woman of strength and determination whose light skin has shaped her experience in the deep South. She finds beauty in embracing her heritage and standing tall against adversity.

-Brown Sugar: A nurturing caretaker who is deeply concerned about how she will care for herself and others. Her journey explores the challenges of balancing her own needs with those of her loved ones.

- Chestnut: A compassionate and empathetic soul whose caring nature often leads her to be taken advantage of, yet she remains a pillar of strength for her community.

- Cocoa: A courageous and resilient woman who faces racism and discrimination head-on, finding solace and pride in her deep, chocolate hue.

- Cinnamon: A vibrant and fiery blend of Black and Hispanic heritage who navigates the challenges of fitting into two cultures while celebrating the unique richness of her identity.

- Umber: A wise and tranquil healer who battles the pressures of being perceived as a "strong Black woman" while finding peace and grounding in her spirituality.

- Choreopoem Structure: Embracing Shange's innovative format, Nicole's show combines poetry, dance, and music to convey the emotional depth and richness of the characters' experiences and the experiences of Black Womanhood.

- Culinary Connection: The shared kitchen serves as a metaphor for the blending of cultures and the nurturing bonds of sisterhood, as the women share their favorite dishes from their respective backgrounds. The piece will also include a digital recipe book with historic recipes from members of the cast, as well as, the playwright's own family history.

- Empowerment and Reflection: Each character's journey is a testament to the enduring strength and resilience of Black women, culminating in a powerful affirmation of their identities and the legacy of those who came before them.

"Our Hues" is a tribute to the multifaceted experiences of Black women, celebrating their strength, beauty, and unbreakable spirit. As the characters bid farewell, they leave the audience with words of wisdom from iconic Black women, encapsulating the essence of their journey and the enduring power of sisterhood. This production is a vibrant, emotional, and uplifting homage to the legacy of Ntozake Shange, bringing her vision into the present with a fresh, contemporary lens and the heart of the Black women who touched the lives of the playwright.

'Our Hues' will perform an excerpt at Raleigh Fringe Festival on September 21, 2024 at 2:00 PM at Theatre Raleigh. 

🎟Tickets🎟

https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/raleighfringe/our-hues-are-enuff-to-withstand-the-storm-a-celebration-of-black-womanhood

I'm Getting My Own Radio Show! 🤯🙌🏾😏🎤😬

Announcing Heart of the Arts with Roni Nicole, a new weekly radio show launching on October 9, 2024! 🎙️ Every Wednesday from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM on WRLY-LP / 93.5 FM, we’ll be diving deep into the rich and diverse arts scene of North Carolina.

Hosted by the talented Roni Nicole, Heart of the Arts will spotlight local artists, artisans,and arts-affiliated organizations that are minority-led or from marginalized communities. Each episode will feature inspiring interviews, live performances, and in-depth conversations with artists, creatives, and community leaders who are making waves and transforming the cultural landscape of North Carolina.

From visual arts to music, theater, dance, and beyond, Heart of the Arts is your go-to show for discovering the incredible talent and creativity thriving right here in our community. Whether you’re an art lover, a community advocate, or just curious about what’s happening in RDU’s dynamic arts scene, this show is for you!

Tune in to WRLY-LP / 93.5 FM every Wednesday from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM and join us as we celebrate the voices and visions that make our arts community so vibrant and unique. You won’t want to miss it! 🎭✨