We Speak Out
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IluminArt Productions was specifically developed to utilize theatre as a tool to illuminate critical social issues, creating conversations for positive social change.
In that vein we have generated original vehicles to address prevention of bullying, violence, substance use, relationship abuse, and facilitate discussions about cultural heritage, aging, grief and loss. These theatrical vehicles address social attitudes about peer pressure, gender identity, sexual orientation, family violence, underage drinking, emotional/verbal abuse and coping with death. We provide our audiences with insight about the need for open communication, empathy, empowerment, the value of friendships, diversity, and respect. |
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Recent events have shined a spotlight on deeply rooted constructs of our history that have not gone away - institutionalized racism, economic discrimination, and police brutality. As we have been housebound due to a global pandemic, we have been eye-witnesses to the murder of an unarmed black man, George Floyd, by excessive force from police. The outrage, pain, and frustration have enlivened helplessness and hopelessness that is always on the edge of our consciousness. These are hard things to talk about. Peaceful demonstrations of first amendment rights are overshadowed by images of burning buildings, looters and gas-masked protesters. Demands for justice are overshadowed by the silence of some political representatives and lack of executive leadership.
There is urgent need for change but there are those who will not acknowledge that racism exists. There are those who are opposed to change because it will fundamentally affect their self-image and threaten whatever source of power they perceive themselves to have. IlluminArt Productions is a catalyst for ongoing conversations about what must change to bring equity to all citizens. First, we must examine the values within ourselves, recommit to equitable social values, redirect our energies to prioritize those values, and let the community know we continue to support equal justice and diversity. We rededicate ourselves to facilitate conversations that bring people together for the good of our community. (June 2020) Sincerely, |
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Alice Bishop, Board Chair
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Arlene Sorkin, President & CEO
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