Oversoul Theatre Collective, Inc. (OTC) is a non-profit, professional arts and education organization, formed in 1994 with the mission of expanding and enhancing the artistic, cultural and educational experiences and opportunities in our communities. We do this through the creation, and supporting the creation, development and presentation of high quality works in the performing and media arts; and providing professional training and experiences in the arts for experienced and aspiring artists and arts professionals. We do this through our own efforts as well as in collaboration with other community organizations, institutions, and businesses.
Oversoul Theatre Collective operates under the fiscal auspices of Song Keepers, LTD, a 501c3 non profit organization.
OTC @ the Underground Railroad
Cafe & Gallery
Residenced at the Underground Railroad Cafe & Gallery (213 Acushnet Ave) in New Bedford, MA, our current programming includes:
The JAZZ CULTURE Workshop & Jam Session – a community jam session and workshop for jazz, blues, and soul musicians. Also open to poets and MCs.
The GRIOT’s CORNER – a monthly open mic, writer’s workshop, and creative soiree (3rd Wednesdays).
The THUMP & SOUL SESSION – a monthly underground dance music gathering (3rd Saturdays).
(COMING SOON!!!) Emerging Artist Showcases – spotlighting fresh musical talent from across the region.
Through performances, workshops, and pop-up events, OTC brings people together around the power of story, sound, and shared experience.
A scene from “THIS HOUSE” written by Mwalim and Directed by Naheem Garcia.
A past flyer from a popular touring Show offered by Oversoul Theatre Collective.
The Truly Cape Cod Jazz Cultural Theatre Project 2019, directed by Eddie Ray Johnson.
Current Programs:
Artist Roster:
OTC works with a powerful lineup of interdisciplinary artists whose talents shape the heart of our performances, events, and educational programs. Our roster includes musicians, storytellers, actors, producers, and media artists who bring deep creative vision and cultural resonance to everything they do.
Our current roster includes:
Mwalim DaPhunkee Professor – playwright, composer, musician, and Artistic Director of OTC; co-founder of the Grammy-nominated soul-funk band, The GroovaLottos
The ZYG 808 – recording artist, producer, percussionist, and co-founder of WAMPTRONICA
The GroovaLottos – multi-Grammy nominated soul-funk band and production unit
WAMPTRONICA – underground dance music and media collective creating live installations and sonic experiences
Navalle "Chops" Turner – world-class vocalist with deep roots in gospel, soul, and jazz traditions
Naheem Garcia – veteran actor and director of theatre, film, and television
Bishop the Shadowman – alternative musical artist blending experimental sound with raw performance energy
Workshops, Residencies & Master Classes
Oversoul Theatre Collective, Inc. (OTC) offers a variety of master classes, workshops and residencies in music, theater/ performance, and creative writing; team taught by members of our Artist Roster.
Master classes are 1-3 day sessions (90 minutes per session).
Workshops are team taught, and are 4 - 6 weeks in duration (1 or 2, 90-minute sessions per week).
Residencies are team taught, and are 7-14 weeks in duration (1 or 2, 90-minute sessions per week)