CMU School of Drama


Wednesday, November 07, 2018

Lauren Mayer: Political activism through music

Datebook: For their Thursday, Nov. 8, cabaret show at Feinstein’s at the Nikko, pianist Lauren Mayer and collaborators Sandy and Richard Riccardi left the set list up in the air until two days beforehand.

The determining factor? The midterm elections.

1 comment:

Davine Byon said...

I think using music as an outlet for social and political commentary is brilliant, and especially unique given its creator. The self-declared middle-aged Jewish mother uses her medium to think, express, or just vent about issues that she sees around her. While the songs tend to be very goofy and light, it is clear that Mayer is unafraid to tackle whatever she takes issue with. To me it is also no surprise that she is a theater artist, a storyteller. This side of her is what shines forth when the more challenging topics need to be grappled with. It is also, I think, where her deep yet humorous humility comes from. I think it is crucial to artists in any field to also have their hands in another art form to enrich and enhance different skills. Lauren Mayer is a perfect example of a woman who has found ways to constantly diversify her work and medium while maintaining the same integrity and energy throughout.