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About Us
Our Story
In Denver, something extraordinary is unfolding. Opening Act is a groundbreaking initiative that elevates the voices of Black girls by inviting them to discover their
strengths and unique stories through the power of stage performance. This movement is more than just a series of productions; it is a call to nurture confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging in young girls who often face significant challenges.
This empowering program invites girls aged 5 to 17 to explore their passions, celebrate their unique identities and cultures within the vibrant African diaspora, and boldly express their dreams on stage.
From improvisation to pantomime, and from vocal coaching to dance and bonding exercises, our activities are designed to unveil the magic of theatre and playmaking while addressing the broader need for self-expression. In 2016, visionary public relations expert Sylvia Cordy united eight professional Black women, all inspired by a shared vision of empowering and elevating girls, and Opening Act was born.
Our Mission and Vision
Mission
Through transformative stage experiences, we build confidence and self-esteem, helping girls overcome societal barriers and thrive as leaders, creators, and changemakers.
Vision
We envision successful, poised, and skilled women empowered to create change in themselves, their community and their world.
Our Values
- Confident self-expression and professional proactive communication
- Integrity and personal ethics
- Excellence
- Critical thinking and analysis
- Mutual respect for diverse values and communities
- Humor and versatility
- Personal and professional resilience
MEET THE BOARD
Sylvia Cordy, CEO
Sylvia Cordy, CEO
Sylvia Cordy, CEO
B.A. Theatre; Television Executive and Public Relations Agency CEO
Zakaya Adderley
Sylvia Cordy, CEO
Sylvia Cordy, CEO
First Grade Teacher, Rocky Mountain Prep
Anita Ware Berry
Sylvia Cordy, CEO
Anita Ware Berry
Property Manager, Allen Gardens
Teresa Devine
Sylvia Cordy, CEO
Anita Ware Berry
Development Director, Seniors Resource Center
Carla Elam Floyd
Carla Elam Floyd
Carla Elam Floyd
Human Resources Consultant
Biaze Houston
Carla Elam Floyd
Carla Elam Floyd
Ph.D., Chief of District Support, University of Virginia
Aden Sampson
Carla Elam Floyd
Aden Sampson
12th Grade, Youth Board Member
Hilari Smith
Carla Elam Floyd
Aden Sampson
Co-Founder and COO of Collaborative Healing Initiative within Communities – CHIC
Cynthia Yeldell
Cynthia Yeldell
Cynthia Yeldell
Businesswoman
Legacy Board Members:
- Gwen Brewer (Chairperson, Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Theatre; Retired Teacher)
- The Late Dr. Adrienne Seward (B.A. Theatre; Professor Emeritus, English, Colorado College)
- Sheryl McCallum (Actress and producer with experience locally and on Broadway)
- Dr. Maude Lofton (Retired Pediatrician, Philanthropist)
- Claudia Jordan (Retired Denver County Court Judge)
- Carol McCallum (Founding Member of the Denver Black Arts Company)
- Beverly Ausfahl (Former President of the Colorado Education Association; Retired Teacher)
- The Late Lee Kathryn Gash-Maxey (Former TV Producer, Exec. Dir., Black Chamber of Commerce)