An Artist Update | October 2026
If you've been wondering where I've been, the short answer is: everywhere, apparently.
The longer answer involves music, theater, a few creative adventures, and an ongoing conversation with myself about just how many things one artist can possibly do.
And apparently, we're still finding out! 🤭
While things may have seemed a little quiet here on the website, behind the scenes, life has been anything but.
The Music Is Still Playing
First things first: music remains at the heart of what I do.
As a Gospel Jazz artist, I've always loved the extraordinary ability of music to tell stories, express faith, stir emotions, and sometimes say what words alone cannot.
That hasn't changed.
What has changed is the number of ways I'm discovering to tell those stories.
And somewhere along the way, I wandered onto a theater stage and discovered that apparently, singing the stories wasn't enough.
Now I want to act them, write them, and direct them too.
Go figure!
A New Chapter on the Stage
Over the past year, I've been immersed in theatrical training and creative exploration at the Stella Adler Studio of Acting.
From acting and devising to musical theater and directing, the experience has challenged me to explore storytelling from entirely different perspectives.
And what a fascinating journey it's been!
There's something wonderful about stepping into a character's world, discovering what makes them tick, and allowing a story to unfold through behavior, movement, silence, and sometimes the things left unsaid.
I've also been developing original theatrical works, including Borrowed Voices, a one-person play exploring the voices and experiences that shape us, and Phoenix Butterfly, a one-woman musical about faith, transformation, and becoming.
Both projects have taken me into some deeply creative territory.
And both continue to remind me that sometimes the most interesting discoveries happen when you give yourself permission to explore.
Finding Your Voice- And Helping Others Find Theirs
Meanwhile, my work through Finding Your Voice continues.
Whether I'm working with a developing singer, helping someone build confidence in their expression, or creating opportunities for young people to discover their musical abilities, teaching remains a meaningful part of my creative life.
Interestingly, the more I explore acting and storytelling, the more connections I discover between those disciplines and vocal expression.
The breath. The intention. The courage to communicate something honestly.
Different art forms, perhaps. But they're speaking a remarkably similar language.
And I love that!
So, What's Next?
Well, that's an excellent question.
There are new performances, theatrical projects, creative collaborations, and a few other ideas taking shape.
Some are still in development. Others are getting closer to being shared.
And yes, there's still music to be made!
I'm learning to appreciate the process of allowing things to develop without feeling compelled to announce every idea the moment it arrives.
Although, considering how frequently those ideas arrive, that's an ongoing exercise in self-restraint. 👀
What I do know is that I'm enjoying this season of discovery.
Not because I'm trying to become someone different, but because I'm finding new ways to express more of who I've always been.
So, if things have seemed a little quiet around here, don't be fooled.
The website may have been resting, but the artist certainly hasn't.
And judging by the number of ideas still knocking around in my head, I don't think she's planning to anytime soon.
Thank you for continuing to listen, watch, encourage, and journey with me.
There's more to come. Apparently. 😉
Petula Beckles
Gospel Jazz Soul