At just 20 years old, Zyland has already built a creative résumé that spans writing, music and youth advocacy. This weekend, she adds another chapter to that journey — a role in the St. Louis stage production Exposed — while continuing to grow her presence as an emerging alternative pop artist with her latest single, “Bonsoir.”
The production, presented by JPEK Creative Works, will take place Saturday, August 22 at 3 p.m. at The Grandel Theatre. Exposed examines mental health, therapy, healing and the emotional dynamics within the Black community. It is the kind of work that aligns naturally with the themes Zyland has carried since childhood.
Her path started unusually early. She began publishing collaborative art in preschool and wrote her first solo book, How To Beat A Bully, at age nine. It was published when she was 11. The book centered on self‑worth and navigating conflict — topics she has continued to explore through her music.
Today, Zyland describes her alternative pop sound as “song mantras” — messages that speak to overcoming self‑doubt, building confidence and encouraging young people to believe in themselves. Her new single “Bonsoir” reflects that approach. The title means “good evening” in French.
“I want the song to symbolize that even when you go through adversity, you can still wake up with a positive attitude and live your life in a positive way,” she said. “The summer is a good opportunity to let loose, have fun and celebrate. I hope this song helps people hone in on the positive energy.”
Her vocal coach, Grammy‑nominated singer Callie Day, said Zyland’s voice and artistic identity stand out.
“I basically want to give everything that I’ve learned to the next generation,” Day said. “Music is important — and Zyland, this baby can sing. I love her style and I want to protect what she is doing.”
Day said her focus with young artists is authenticity.
“We have a lot of folks singing in different genres,” she said. “What’s important is being your own person and having your own sound. If we’re coming to see you perform, I want you to be the best you — not emulate someone else.”
That emphasis on individuality is part of what makes Zyland’s casting in Exposed notable. JPEK is known for blending theater with community‑centered conversations around emotional wellness, trauma and healing.
In Exposed, Zyland steps into a role that mirrors the themes she has carried through her writing and music. The play explores how therapy, communication and vulnerability can shift relationships and help communities confront long‑standing emotional wounds.
For Zyland, the opportunity is a continuation of the mission she began as a child.
She has spent years using creative expression to encourage young people to see their value — first through her book, then through her music, and now through her work as an actor. The move into theater allows her to bring those messages to a new audience and a new medium.
“I’m pouring into her and I am excited about what she is doing,” Day said. “Whatever I can help her with, I am here to do that. I’m an educator. And if I see someone who has talent, I’m going to pour into them. If I can instill what was instilled in me and save one, I will be happy.”
As Zyland prepares for her performance in Exposed, she continues to build momentum with “Bonsoir” and her growing catalog of alternative pop music. And now, she will bring that message to the stage.
“St. Louis has always been a second home for me,” said Zyland’s choreographer Drea Kelly. “I was always drawn here — I don’t know if it was because of Ms. Katherine Dunham or Ms. Josephine Baker — but there’s an energy here that is untapped. And it’s full of that raw talent that doesn’t get a chance.”
Kelly has known Zyland’s mother, LaTonya Spencer, for many years. Spencer has a long history as a public relations professional within the entertainment industry.
“Tonya and I go way back — I’m talking baby bottles and spines,” Kelly said. “We have a mutual friend in Joel P.E. King, who is an amazing playwright from here in St. Louis.”
Kelly described herself as an “industry auntie,” someone who has spent years watching young performers navigate a business that often pushes them toward hypersexualized images — especially young women of color. She said her role with Zyland is to help her develop as an artist without losing her sense of self.
“We’re in a generation where everything is instant,” Kelly said. “Kids are exposed to so much, so fast. It’s overstimulating, and it can shape how they think they’re supposed to present themselves.”
She said balance is essential for emerging performers.
“You can be sensual without being hypersexualized,” Kelly said. “That’s something I can help her understand.”
Kelly was drawn to Zyland’s innocence and her genuine love for the work — qualities she believes are worth protecting.
“If I can help her keep that passion intact in a business that can be very wicked, I’m going to do everything I can,” Kelly said.
JPEK’s presentation of Exposed takes place at 3 p.m. on Saturday, August 22 at The Grandel Theatre, 3610 Grandel Square. For tickets and additional information, visit www.metrotix.com.