Jenita Nakamura, Songwriter, Dramatist, Choreographer— Upon returning home to Memphis, Jenita Nakamura joined the Orpheum Theatre Group in May 2018 as the Manager of Education Engagement. Prior to returning to Memphis, Jenita spent 7 years in California, serving as Managing Director and Lead Choreographer for National Youth Performers. Jenita’s choreography and directing skills have been shaped by her 20 years of dance experience, which began at the age of 10 in a Brooklyn, NY church community center.  As a graduate of Tennessee State University, Jenita is grateful for the education that allowed her to serve the Nashville community for 9 years as a family crisis counselor. Many of the situations encountered during Jenita’s time as a social worker find their way into her stories, creating an opportunity to explore social issues with audiences and spark conversations about topics such as predatory violence and sex trafficking. In addition to being a conversation catalyst, Jenita hopes that her art can call citizens to action and promote healing for survivors. She credits her songwriting with birthing a restorative resurrection in her own life that she hopes will inspire future generations.