In July we listened to Performing Artists of Color and Multi-Cultural Producers. We again followed the same 3-question structure: what the ideal, what exists and what the obstacles for teaching artists in Seattle. Please review, expand and comment, whether you were able to join us or not.
Question 1- What does the ideal community look like?
-stage work reflective of the community
-geographic presenting diversity (beyond Seattle)
-audience diversity (mainstream & ethnic)
-on stage diversity
-open-mindedness to non-traditional artists, admin & production team
-a black Hamlet/ Korean Ophelia
-presenting Orgs with an institutional awareness of structural racism: creates authenticity
-spirit of active invitation-stated
-Multiculturalism vs. just black/white
-Genuine community inclusivity
-Awareness of diversity within diversity (spectrum of mixed race)
Question 2 – What resources exist?
–Marketing Directors (if decided- ?)
– CD forum -Kultura Arts
-Brownbox -labor unions
-Latino Theatre Projects -women’s orgs
-Mirror Stage -Pradithwani
-SIS Productions -Community arts create (NP)
-neighborhood papers -ese Teatro
-multicultural papers -UW of King County project lead (listserv?)
-Immigrant -UW Ethnic Cultural Center
-Shunpike -History/ DB collection—Wish List-Film Industry
-Artists Trust -SIFF, NWFF, NW Asian Am. Thr
-OAC/ Office for Civil Rights
– 4 Culture
-Race & Social Justice Initiative
-Meet-up Groups-special interest groups
-Seattle People of Color Salon
-La Salsa
-listserv- Asian American Theatre Review/ sapaag@yahoo groups
Question 3- What are the obstacles to the ideal community?
-knowing where to find answers
-white privilege & white fragility
-white institutions with white art & artists
-lack of authenticity in effort – opportunity –internships—mentorships
-lack of understanding of other factors —like socioeconomic or political
-lack of clear pathways for careers
-lack of ethnic directors & Ads
-smaller multi-cultural companies being ethnic centric
-definitions of ‘classical’
-theatres that don’t even think it’s their ‘job’ to promote multiculturalism—lack of
responsibility—way of thinking
-Seattle progressive patting on back