A STATEMENT FROM THE MUSICAL THEATER PROJECT
The murder of George Floyd―only the most recent example of 400 years of racism in this country―has rightly inflamed the anger and hurt of our people. We bend under the weight of injustice, brutality and inhumanity that is woven into the fabric of America’s founding.
As an organization that holds community and collaboration as core values, The Musical Theater Project is committed to participating in organizational and structural changes to disassemble systems promoting white dominance and power in every area of our society.
We recognize that for more than a century, the classic American musical has been a racist art form springing from a Eurocentric tradition. In the 20th century, the musical theater was developed mostly by white men, telling stories mostly about white people for mostly white audiences. We recognize that black artists and stories are historically underrepresented in musical theater, and the number of musicals created by people of color is even smaller. We must not assume that our work speaks in universal terms when the backdrop for the art has been painted in white privilege.
Art both reflects the sins of our past and illuminates the possibilities of our future. We believe that song and story offer a unifying force that can bind hearts and minds together. The voices of musical theater are optimistic, hopeful. The art form can point to a tradition of being a welcoming place. In exploring musical theater, we have an opportunity to discover and rediscover ourselves as American citizens.
As a white-led organization, we pledge to confront the white privilege that resides in our work artistically and organizationally. We vow to learn, listen and do better. We value the potency of diversity and the importance of inclusion. We believe that Black Lives Matter. We stand with and support this movement to fight for social justice and change.
The murder of George Floyd―only the most recent example of 400 years of racism in this country―has rightly inflamed the anger and hurt of our people. We bend under the weight of injustice, brutality and inhumanity that is woven into the fabric of America’s founding.
As an organization that holds community and collaboration as core values, The Musical Theater Project is committed to participating in organizational and structural changes to disassemble systems promoting white dominance and power in every area of our society.
We recognize that for more than a century, the classic American musical has been a racist art form springing from a Eurocentric tradition. In the 20th century, the musical theater was developed mostly by white men, telling stories mostly about white people for mostly white audiences. We recognize that black artists and stories are historically underrepresented in musical theater, and the number of musicals created by people of color is even smaller. We must not assume that our work speaks in universal terms when the backdrop for the art has been painted in white privilege.
Art both reflects the sins of our past and illuminates the possibilities of our future. We believe that song and story offer a unifying force that can bind hearts and minds together. The voices of musical theater are optimistic, hopeful. The art form can point to a tradition of being a welcoming place. In exploring musical theater, we have an opportunity to discover and rediscover ourselves as American citizens.
As a white-led organization, we pledge to confront the white privilege that resides in our work artistically and organizationally. We vow to learn, listen and do better. We value the potency of diversity and the importance of inclusion. We believe that Black Lives Matter. We stand with and support this movement to fight for social justice and change.
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A Message from Bill Rudman and
Heather Meeker During COVID-19 |
When all the world is a hopeless jumble
And the raindrops tumble all around, Heaven opens a magic lane... |
You may be surprised to learn that the great lyricist Yip Harburg wrote those lines as part of the opening verse for “Over the Rainbow.” It’s a message that seems so right for this moment, doesn’t it? And although the song begins with Dorothy’s feelings of being lost and afraid, by the third line Harburg and composer Harold Arlen make us feel we can conquer anything.
Of course, just a few months ago, our lives were transformed overnight. No doubt you are worried, anxious and even overwhelmed by it all, but we want you to know that our arts community is coming together and has committed to its
own journey over the rainbow, finding creative ways to help you feel strong again.
Like you, your friends at The Musical Theater Project are adjusting to the impact of this transformation and looking forward to sharing the gift of song with you once again, in person. But for now, our staff is busy and safe in our own homes, developing new programs that enable us (as we say at TMTP) to Learn, Laugh, Cry and Love.
The very best way is to help us now is to stay engaged and connected with The Musical Theater Project. Although we may not be able to share a live performance for a while, thanks to technology, you can applaud TMTP through online programming. All you need is your computer, and it couldn’t be easier! We know you’ll like our online “specials,” and we would welcome a call or email to let us know how we can play an even bigger role in keeping your spirits up. Your loyal support has made our one-of-a-kind arts education programming and services possible for 20 years.
For more than a century the American musical has provided comfort and joy, helping us cope with difficult times like these, and that will not change. Yip Harburg said it best:
If happy little bluebirds fly
Beyond the rainbow,
Why, oh why, can’t I?
The answer is: We can! Because we’re all in this together. Please stay safe and keep your favorite songs in your heart.
Of course, just a few months ago, our lives were transformed overnight. No doubt you are worried, anxious and even overwhelmed by it all, but we want you to know that our arts community is coming together and has committed to its
own journey over the rainbow, finding creative ways to help you feel strong again.
Like you, your friends at The Musical Theater Project are adjusting to the impact of this transformation and looking forward to sharing the gift of song with you once again, in person. But for now, our staff is busy and safe in our own homes, developing new programs that enable us (as we say at TMTP) to Learn, Laugh, Cry and Love.
The very best way is to help us now is to stay engaged and connected with The Musical Theater Project. Although we may not be able to share a live performance for a while, thanks to technology, you can applaud TMTP through online programming. All you need is your computer, and it couldn’t be easier! We know you’ll like our online “specials,” and we would welcome a call or email to let us know how we can play an even bigger role in keeping your spirits up. Your loyal support has made our one-of-a-kind arts education programming and services possible for 20 years.
For more than a century the American musical has provided comfort and joy, helping us cope with difficult times like these, and that will not change. Yip Harburg said it best:
If happy little bluebirds fly
Beyond the rainbow,
Why, oh why, can’t I?
The answer is: We can! Because we’re all in this together. Please stay safe and keep your favorite songs in your heart.
Artistic Director
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Executive Director
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PROGRAMMING
Movies At Home
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In the Classroom
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On the Radio
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Recordings
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