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- USA)

Cassandra Cato-Louis is an award-winning actress, international bestselling author, and artistic director. She is highly recognized for the book How to Marry a Black Man: The Real Deal, co-authored with Monique Jellerette DeJongh, which became an international bestseller.

Cato-Louis has been an art-ivist (arts activist) for the past 25 years. She uses art as a way of changing the world, and herself.

She has performed in several notable projects, including the world premiere of Ntozake Shangé’s final work, Lost in Language & Sound, and was honored to be called ‘Zake’s “friend.” You may have seen her in the movie Stronger with Jake Gyllenhaal and more. She has also worked with American film producer Spike Lee as a lines person on his film crew.

Cato-Louis is also an acting instructor, humanitarian, and the creative director of the African Repertory Troupe.

AMBASSADOR SEAN BARDOO Official Advisor & Spokesperson- Mattapan Cultural Arts Development (MCAD- USA)

Ambassador Sean Bardoo is an internationally recognized humanitarian and the newly appointed Official Advisor & Spokesperson for Mattapan Cultural Arts Development (MCAD).

As the WCH Royal Ambassador to HRH Queen Maria Amor, he actively champions human rights, combats human trafficking, and uplifts vulnerable populations around the globe.

He was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for Humanitarian Excellence at Oxford University during the 13th World Leaders Summit, and was named Man of the Year at the WCH Royal Summit 2023 in Dubai. Ambassador Bardoo continues to lead with vision, compassion, and global impact.