In Part 1 of this interview, we explore the role of arts during crises, as well as how arts and artists are viewed in U.S. mainstream society. We’ve faced many crises and artistic responses in recent months, including the COVID-19 pandemic; the elevation of the Black Lives Matter movement in the wake of the police killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and others; and uncertainty in the face of tenuous economic and political outlooks.
My guests today are Bay Area artists and theatre makers working to elevate the work of theatre arts and artists outside the mainstream, and to ensure that all voices are heard among the Bay Area theatre arts community.
Beatrice Thomas: Interdisciplinary artist, cultural strategist, and equity, diversity, and inclusion consultant, with Authentic Arts & Media
Ely Sonny Orquiza): Freelance theatre maker in the Bay Area
Brad Erickson: Executive Director of Theatre Bay Area
Nicky Martinez: Programs Coordinator for Theatre Bay Area
