Leah Edwards: Reviving Charleston's Opera Scene and Cultivating Community Engagement

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Step into the spotlight with us as we welcome the remarkable Leah Edwards, a dynamic stage artist whose career spans Broadway, off-Broadway, the New York Philharmonic, and Carnegie Hall. Leah takes us on a journey through her vibrant career, sharing her transition from the stage to arts administration as the co-founder of Holy City Arts and Lyric Opera. Her humorous anecdotes and genuine passion for the arts offer a refreshing perspective on the world of performing arts and the creation of thriving opera communities.From her unique beginnings in Virginia to her mastery as a professional pianist by 16, Leah's story is a tapestry of creativity and dedication. With the steadfast support of her parents, Leah's journey underscores the timeless allure of opera and musical theater, drawing parallels with cultural icons of the past. We explore Charleston’s surprising lack of an opera scene and Leah's innovative initiatives to change that, such as "Bagel Sundays" and driveway concerts that challenge misconceptions and foster a love for opera.Celebrate the magic of live music with us as Leah recounts her dream of establishing a cultural landmark in Charleston, inspired by iconic venues like Lincoln Center and Santa Fe Opera. The narrative touches on community engagement, supporting local arts organizations, and the transformative power of live performances, especially during challenging times. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to the enduring joy of live music and the vision of a vibrant, inclusive arts community.South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors.Support the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...