Week 6
By Kei A. Phillip
Lights, camera, action for our teen leaders who took their artivism to Shubert Stage this past week! The affirmation on showcase day “our voices matter” harmonized with title “My Right to Be” as this inspirational crew reclaimed space to advocate for themselves and those who are often silenced.
Being my first year as a staff member, I wasn’t sure what to expect for showcase week. Leaning into the process alongside the teens, I saw them transform and take their creative work to new heights of expression. During final rehearsals, the trap room, where teens gathered in between numbers, buzzed with nerves and excitement, focus and collaboration. For some of our teen leaders, this was their first time performing original work on a stage. Given the quick turnaround from workshops the previous week, the newness and speed of rehearsal preparations can be overwhelming. I was impressed that the teens didn’t lose themselves in the flurry of the set list, blocking, and technical transitions. As the stage manager gave queues, directed entrances, and facilitated mic setup, missteps and delays were handled with grace. Our emerging artists embodied a sense of professionalism that allowed joy and style to maintain community connection and ground them in their shared purpose. With each run through, their command of their art became more confident and their support of one another filled the spaces in between.
Curated with exceptional thought by associate director, Javiera, the show dynamically brought together the three specialties: acting, music, and dance. The theatrical scenes creatively weaved many subtopics that encompass human rights in a manner that was relatable, direct, and at times satirical. The interconnections of the characters and storylines capitalized how human rights issues show up in our everyday lives and our need to both acknowledge them, shift our behavior, and work together. Through their reflective expression, the singer-songwriters and musicians serenaded us to reach into our hearts with compassion and to nurture love. They acknowledged our shared hardships while motivating us to speak up. The music production and lyrics which spanned from R&B and hip hop to indie and Afrobeat also integrated multiple languages (French, Spanish, and Patois), uplifting inclusion and the vibrance of our intersecting identities. Interludes of original choreography amplified the emotions of the scenes and communicated the theme in song choice, gestures, formations, and form. Through their embodiment, the dancers disrupted the norm and challenged us to be fearless in our self-acceptance, to advocate for others, and to proudly express our culture – who we are, liberated from the powers that try to control us.
These youths' collective messages, crafted with the colors of their shared experience, their creative gifts, and immense care for humanity — were wise, encouraging, and inspiring for the audience to watch in-person and online. Family members, workshop attendees, alumni of the program, and curious community members absorbed their declaration for change with enthusiasm. These kids are the future and I’m proud to have been a part of their celebration of teamwork and manifesto for what the world needs.