COMMON GROUND: New Performances at OZ Arts Nashville

Showcasing unique and timely perspectives from the local community, Common Ground invites audiences to celebrate a sense of joy, resilience, and belonging together. DancEast brings a community-centered group dance piece and storytelling project “Voices in Motion: Practicing Utopia” to the Kindling stage, asking an idyllic question: “What might become possible if we imagined a more just and joyful America together?” The words and stories of Nashville residents are transformed into choreographic vignettes, invoking a more expansive future through collective action. Autumn Wegner’s “Kinder(Garten)” uncovers the playful and profound movements of preschool students, utilizing a handful of tiny prop chairs to play games, navigate interpersonal conflict, and explore creativity. Finally, the beloved artists of Friends Life Community debut a new devised work inspired by the Festival’s theme of “Utopias” that features original movement, spoken word, photography, and a festive “Big Book” inspired by the artwork of Paul Collins. With more than two dozen Friends’ work included alongside a host of community collaborators, it’s sure to be a stunning finale to this trio of performances that remind us of the beautiful neighbors in the city we call home.

Presented as part of Kindling Arts Festival 2026: UTOPIAS, July 23-26.