MATTAPAN CULTURAL ARTS DEVELOPMENT

About us

Mattapan Cultural Arts Development (MCAD) connects, mobilizes, and develops people, spaces, and partnerships to build community through the arts. MCAD supports development that centers and enhances Mattapan’s character and quality of place, promotes cultural celebrations and the cultivation of local artists, and fosters community engagement in making and experiencing art.

Vision Statement

Mattapan is an emergent arts-infused ecosystem fueling a dynamic Afrocentric Cultural District.

Mattapan is a thriving cultural destination that inspires residents and visitors alike to access and engage opportunities for creative self-expression, civic and cultural pride.

Company History

Mattapan Cultural Arts Development was organized in 2004 to develop a LEED-certified, mixed-use cultural arts facility in Mattapan, MA.

It is currently home to the Mattapan Arts Council and the Mattapan Alliance to Promote the Creative Economy.

Our Team

Cassandra Cato-Louis; Creative Director; Mattapan Cultural Arts Development (MCAD)

Cassandra Cato-Louis, Artistic Director of African Repertory Troupe, has received numerous

awards for her acting, volunteerism and activism.

Co-Author of How to Marry a Black Man: The Real Deal, (with Monique Jellerette deJongh) &

the soon to be published, “Mommy’s Grrlz”, (with Dr. Danné Davis), ‘Cato’ has been an Art-ivist

(arts activist) for the last 25 years. She uses art as a way of changing the world and herself.

Cato was ecstatic to have performed in the world premiere of Ntozake Shangé’s last work,

“Lost in Language & Sound”; and to have been called and been ‘Zake’s “Friend”.

Most recently, Cassandra can be seen in “Stronger” with Jake Gyllenhaal.

Ambassador Sean Bardoo; Official Advisor & Spokesperson; Mattapan Cultural Arts Development (MCAD)

Ambassador Sean Bardoo is an internationally recognized humanitarian and the Official Advisor & Spokesperson for Mattapan Cultural Arts Development (MCAD). As WCH Royal Ambassador to HRH Queen Maria Amor, he champions human rights, fights human trafficking, and uplifts vulnerable populations worldwide. Honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for Humanitarian Excellence at Oxford’s 13th World Leaders Summit and named Man of the Year at the WCH Royal Summit 2023 in Dubai, Ambassador Bardoo continues to lead with vision, compassion, and global impact.