Songs of Healing, Songs of Hope: Taking Solace and Making Change Through the Arts

By: Nov. 12, 2016
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With the election results now behind us, the nation has responded in myriad ways. From outrage to celebration, from tears to widespread catatonic shock. In what was perhaps the most contested presidential race ever, our nation has endured candidates stoking the flames of extreme opposition, inciting violence, and the promotion of toxic ideals. With all of the derision exhibited throughout this taxing and divisive national ordeal, we are left with at least one assured agreement among all of us: the aftermath of this election is certain to be pervasive and long-standing.

In our darkest hours, many in the theatrical community turn to the arts as a means of coping. We take solace in the tranquility of the theatre; we revel in the feel of plush velvet seats, take comfort in the friendly faces of ushers, and through the seamless work of a diverse and supremely talented community of artists, we are teleported from the anguish of reality to literally anywhere else.

For many, the theatre is less a place of entertainment and more of a sanctuary. It is venue we turn to reflect and feel. To decompress and be transported. A place where all are welcome and celebrated. Where we commune to tell each other stories, a centuries long tradition that began when homo sapiens first achieved sentient thought. A place where we are all equal in our need for entertainment, our quest to achieve escapism, and our hope to gain better understanding of our human condition.

The fallout from this election has left many feeling lost and left to cope with an uncertain future. Given the seemingly insurmountable rift this election cycle has created, it is difficult to imagine where we will go from here as a nation. But as fans and practitioners of this timeless art form, we are provided with an incredible outlet. A refuge from the firm grip of madness that has seemingly taken hold of our reality. A haven from hatred. A retreat from the negativity that seems to pervade nearly every corner of this great nation: the theatre. We have the theatre. And the light from our stages acts as a shining beacon of hope in the darkness.

This light that has historically been guarded by courageous souls: composers, playwrights, directors, actors, and artists of all disciplines who use their gifts to speak out against injustice, give space to the marginalized, and through their examinations of past, present, and future, attempt to influence real and positive change in our world. As our nation stares down these tumultuous times, it is paramount that we promote their work, celebrate their ideals, and spread their light to all who are willing to embrace it.

In our darkest hours, the potential of art as an agent of change and healing cannot be overstated. As we move forward, may we all realize our function as keepers of this most precious and vital beacon and use it as a tool for universal good.

Make them hear you. Lift up your hands. Hold on. Be the light.


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