Edmund J. Cambridge, a trailblazing individual, played a pivotal role as the Founding Member of the renowned "Cambridge Players", a theater troupe that made history by producing James Baldwin's groundbreaking play "The Amen Corner" on Broadway in 1965. This milestone production was made possible with the support of Nat King Cole's wife, Maria Ellington, who served as the producer.
The Cambridge Players' founding members were a talented group of individuals, including Juanita Moore, Helen Martin, Esther Rolle, Helen Martin, Royce Wallace, and supporting members Isabel Sanford, Beah Richards, and Maya Angelou, who were all childhood friends of Edward Cambridge.
Notably, Juanita Moore, a close friend of Marlon Brando and James Baldwin, played a crucial role in securing funding for Baldwin's play. She approached Marlon Brando, who lent $75 to support the project, allowing Baldwin to write "The Amen Corner".
Fast-forward to the present, Kirk E. Kelleykahn now serves as the CEO-President of the legendary troupe, with J.W. Nutting as Vice-President, and Lynn Hamilton, an original founding member, serving as the Artistic Director.
