PHYLLIS YVONNE STICKNEY has longevity and staying power in the industry. Phyllis began her education at the University of Delaware, where she became an Associate in the Theater Department. She was soon called to New York City where she continued her studies at the Institute of New Cinema Artist but Hollywood would soon take note of this dynamic performer.
A decorated Actress/Director/Author/Producer/Community Activist/Motivational Speaker and more, Phyllis is best know and respected for her work in film, stage, television and comedy.
THE ACTRESS
A diverse and acclaimed actress, Phyllis has an unmatchable range from an articulate attorney to a feisty comedy club diva, to a Jamaican mother of class and status to one of the most intelligently hilarious comic talents recognized in HBO’s The History of Blacks In Comedy. Phyllis’ most notable roles are in films such as New Jack City, Die Hard With A Vengeance, How Stella Got Her Groove Back, The Inkwell, What’s Love Got To Do With It? and Malcolm X, among her in-depth film credits. Her recent contribution to the screen is Gun Hill written and directed by Reggie “Rock” Bythewood starring Larenz Tate BET’s first dramatic series. Phyllis made television history by portraying an African Centered character on The Cosby Show spinoff A Different World. A trend setter, a visionary and a consummate artist, Phyllis was named by ESSENCE MAGAZINE 25TH ANNIVERSARY ISSUE “One of 200 African American Women Who Changed the World.” An ambassador of arts, Phyllis has performed comedy in Israel, danced in Senegal and studied the European form of cabaret production in Germany.
THE DIRECTORIn 2001, Phyllis directed the stage show BEEN THERE DONE THAT with Judge Mathis and gospel artist Fred Hammond. The production was the first of the genre to sell out the Paramount Theater at MADISON SQUARE GARDEN. She received special notices and favorable reviews for bringing integrity to gospel stage play.
THE AUTHORA writer in the anthology, “Nine Black Comedy Plays” Phyllis is also a published author of “Loud Thoughts for Quiet Moments”--a collection of poetry and personal perspectives. Selected pieces are recorded on her CD with the same title which Phyllis performs during live events. She is currently writing a book for aspiring performing artists.
THE PRODUCERIn 2013-2013, Phyllis produced “Calling All Comics”, “Are You Kidding Me” and “Comedy Revue” at MIST Harlem of the Interactive Comedy Show & Clinic . She is also the driving force behind the Soulful Saturday Series in Los Angeles, “Laughter and Lyrics” in Jamaica, “The Upper Room Poets and Playwrights Workshop” in NYC/LA, Host of “The Comedy Connection” at the world famous Cotton Club in Harlem and “P.S. I’m Still Standing”—a one woman production set to tour 2015.
Through all of her accomplishments publicly, Phyllis is a Community Activist who has taken on the “crack houses” and “shooting gallery” in Harlem to help the local community establish and organize a Tenant’s Association. Completed just three (3) years ago, the building now has 52 livable units, safe for families to reside.
MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKERA crowd pleaser for over seven (7) years, Phyllis was the keynote speaker with African-American Woman on Tour and had been a part of the Essence Musical Festival Empowerment Seminars for four (4) consecutive years.
In addition to a wide range of talents, Phyllis developed an entertainment industry training program--Alternative Careers--that offers hands on training in the technical and administrative discipline of television/film and record production. She has also developed a clothing line of affordable coutour—Culture Chic by Phyllis Stickney—a line designed for fuller figured women. She also designed Anointed Adornments Fashions Fit for the First Lady, scheduled to launch in Fall 2014.