Episode 60, ACT 2: Melissa Friedman - The Pursuit of Synergy

Hello, PODience! We’re back with Act 2 of Episode 60: “The Pursuit of Synergy,” featuring Melissa Friedman, co-founder of Epic Theatre Ensemble. If Act 1 of Episode 60 reflected on the ways in which Courtney and Melissa’s artistic and administrative work has been challenged by the pandemic (masks, shutdowns, reframing the art we make and how we connect with students and each other during times of unrest), Act 2 continues down a similar path but focuses even more on access and inclusivity. The main themes of this episode are: breaking down barriers to provide opportunities for young people to experience live theater, creating art that truly represents and amplifies young people’s voices, the positive effects of young people seeing themselves represented in stories being told on stage, and the gaps in learning and implementation still present in the theater industry after “We See You White American Theater” was first published. You won’t want to miss the conclusion of this profound conversation, still taking place at the intersection of social justice, education and the arts!