In an effort to move the theater industry toward greater inclusion both on and off stage, Musical Theatre Factory presents PULL TOGETHER, a community salon that will open up the Black Lives Matter conversation. The salon aims to unpack white dominance in the industry in an honest and non-threatening way in order to change the paradigm of representation in musical theater. The salon will take place tonight, November 9, 2016 at the PIT Underground, 123 East 24th St.
“This event is based upon (and titled after) the concept of harambee—an African tradition of cooperative self-help forums that promote unity and constructive ways to solve problems,” says Aaron Salley, MTF’s Outreach Coordinator. “Although PULL TOGETHER is specifically in reaction to the Black Lives Matter movement, we are hoping this will be the start of a series of open discussions on equality in musical theater of all kinds.”
The three-hour structured event is a mix between open mic and town hall and is intended to:
- Promote systemic change in the theatre industry.
- Change whose stories are being told—who’s getting access, support, appropriate attention.
- Expose racism in our community and offer constructive, proactive solutions.
- Share current events effects on our lives and artistry; how do we feel in the interim between shooting events?
- Generate ideas how can the larger musical theater community be more supportive.
Tickets for PULL TOGETHER are $10 and can be purchased online at http://mtf.nyc/events/november-factory-salon/
