She’s the “Hatti” Behind Hattiloo Theatre: Meet Hatsheput Bandele!
In addition to her role as Patron Service Coordinator at the Hattiloo Theatre, Hatshepsut Bandele also runs the lifestyle brand HatshepsutStyles. Meet our newest FACE of Memphis! Image: Hatshepsut Bandele
Hatshepsut Bandele’s Memphis upbringing was deeply rooted in Afrocentrism and cultural awareness. Although surrounded by a loving family, she experienced trauma outside the home that affected her through her college years. Today, this beautiful survivor shares her story with others to promote awareness and healing. She also channels joy into her work at Hattiloo Theatre — the region’s only freestanding Black repertory theatre — and her lifestyle brand, HatshepsutStyles. Get to know this inspiring FACE of Memphis!
You’ve spoken openly about your childhood trauma. Will you share your story with us?
Although I was raised in a loving home with my family, I struggled with depression and anxiety due to the sexual trauma I experienced when I was four years old in daycare, which my family was unaware of. I speak openly about this because it is a common issue that requires greater awareness.
My depression and anxiety became severe once I left home and went to the University of Memphis. I grew attached to the comfort that alcohol provided, and over time, I became an alcoholic. I dropped out of college due to unresolved emotional and mental pain.
After hitting rock bottom during my battle with addiction, I had a spiritual awakening. I realized that alcohol wasn’t my actual problem; the real issue was my inability to cope with the resentment stemming from my past. I didn’t understand how important it was to address the healing needed from my childhood trauma.
Today, I celebrate four years of sobriety, a journey marked by the pain and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. I’ve returned to school to become a sex therapist, driven by a desire to be the support I wish I had when I was four years old. Now, I have the honor of helping meet the needs of many others.
What is the story behind the name “Hattiloo?”
Ekundayo Bandele is the CEO of Hattiloo Theatre and my father. The name “Hattiloo” is derived from a combination of my sister’s and my nicknames. My name is Hatshepsut Bandele, but I go by Hattie. My sister is Oluremi Bandele, and she is called Loo Loo. My father blended our nicknames to create Hattiloo.
What is your role at the theatre?
I serve as the Patron Service Coordinator. I oversee and coordinate the work of two other young women in the box office. I take pride in working for a Black repertory theatre and delivering genuine, welcoming customer service that embodies Black excellence with a warm Southern touch.
What do you find most rewarding about being part of the region’s only freestanding Black repertory theatre?
Hattiloo is not just a theatre; it is a sanctuary for Black culture. I cherish seeing actors become family after the run of a show and witnessing Black people take pride in other Black people. It is priceless.
Tell us about your lifestyle brand, HatshepsutStyles!
HatshepsutStyles is where I share my lifestyle with you. I am an artist in many forms, and art is a daily practice for me. I love the beautiful aromas of essential oils and create blends that bring me joy. I customize these blends to match different moods and expressions, incorporating dried flowers (which I dry myself), crystals, and herbs to enhance and enliven my essential oil creations.
I also find joy in breathing new life into vintage clothing, some likely as old as I am. Vintage clothing has a unique charm, with a quality unmatched by today’s clothing. With a $7 thrifted dress, I can create an outfit that feels as though it is worth $700. I embellish my clothing with crystal beads and handmade African brass in the form of Adinkra symbols. These sacred symbols bless the garments, making them feel alive. I want my clothing and oils to uplift others.
What inspired you to launch your own small business?
COVID-19 had a significant impact on HatshepsutStyles. The lack of work left me with a lot of time but very little money. As a result, I decided to finally utilize the talents I had developed over the years but had never fully shared.
Although I put sharing my clothing and oils on hold after the pandemic subsided, starting school again has reignited my desire to share and express my craft with others. It feels daunting because I am sensitive about my art, but the joy I feel when people appreciate what I create makes it worthwhile.
Switching gears a little, what are your favorite go-to spots in Memphis?
Overton Park, Wolf River, and thrift stores!
Where can we find you when you aren’t working?
I enjoy spending time alone or with my family. My alone time is very important to me. It keeps me healthy.
What is your best piece of advice?
There are only two paths in life: love or fear. Both paths are painful, but the path of love is worth it. As my Papa would say, don’t take life so seriously. No one makes it out alive.
Aside from faith, family, and friends, what are three things you can’t live without?
I have to prove to myself daily that I deserve to love myself unconditionally. I have a passion for photography and love being a creative director.
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Southern women are doing inspiring work. Meet more of them at our FACES archives!
Gaye Swan
As a professional writer of over 20 years, Gaye is an avid traveler and enjoys highlighting food, culture, and attractions around the South. While Gaye is passionate about life in Memphis, she grew up in Meridian and is still a Mississippi girl at heart.