ABOUT

About Destiny Theatre Company

DESTINY ENSEMBLE THEATRE COMPANY was founded in late 2005 by theatre, television and film actor/director Karl D. Gardner. Destiny Ensemble is a 501(c)(3) non-profit theatre company.   Governed by a 10 member Board of Directors, Destiny is blessed with an impressive collection of industry professionals and community leaders (see enclosed Board of Directors bios).

In 2005, after many years of professional success, Mr. Gardner returned home to Chattanooga with the intent of sharing his achievements and talents with his community. He has taught acting courses as well as developed youth programs throughout the city of Chattanooga. His interactions with students brought him to the realization that Chattanooga theatre artists of color were lacking a dedicated venue to nurture and celebrate their talents. Destiny Ensemble Theatre was formed to provide these artists with a solid foundation and performance venue that is devoted to the multi-ethnic perspective. Destiny envisions an inclusive theatre for all artists and audiences and seeks to utilize theatre as a vehicle for cultural enrichment, creative stimulation, inspiration, and entertainment within the Chattanooga community.

Destiny Ensemble Theatre was granted a resident theatre space located in the Memorial Auditorium’s Community Theatre. In May, 2006, Destiny’s first production, Livin’ Fat by Judi Ann Mason, was well received by the community—evidenced by its net ticket sales of over $5,000 and sponsorship by 17 individuals and corporations.

Destiny Ensemble Theatre kicked off its 2006–2007 season with the wonderful hit gospel musical Crowns by Regina Taylor. Crowns was recognized by the Chattanooga Pulse as #5 on the Top Ten list for 2006 Performances In the Arts. The Pulse noted that Crowns was the biggest sleeper of the Chattanooga theatre season.  With Crowns net ticket sales grossing over $10,000 Destiny Ensemble Theatre Company continues to make its mark in the Chattanooga community.

Destiny’s next production was the dramatic comedy Jar TheFloor by Cheryl L. West, which opened February 23, 2007 at the Barking Legs Theatre.  Jar was recognized by some of its patrons and one of the best plays they have seen in years.

Destiny Ensemble Theatre Company ended its first full season with the 6-time Helen Hayes award-winning musical Bessie’s Blues written and directed by Thomas W. Jones II. Bessie was an awesome hand-clapping, foot-stomping celebration of the life and times of the legendary singer and Chattanooga’s own Bessie Smith.