HowlRound Theatre Commons: Thank you for the introduction, legend Carmelita. Bold and fearless, in all the terror of a life in art making, Carmelita. I keep thinking about the last moment of your last show. The way you remembered those we have lost and their legacy. Thank you for your legacy. We just celebrated the legacy of Morgan Jenness and Philip Arnoult, who both tangibly and spiritually changed my life. We are breathing together here in Mark Russell’s legacy which will also be Meropi Peponides and Kaneza Schaal’s legacy.
3 comments:
The concept of "oryoki," described so vividly, struck me as profound. The notion of using "just enough" isn’t just an approach to food—it's a metaphor for creative practice, where simplicity, intention, and mindfulness merge seamlessly. It made me think of minimalism in visual arts or the silence in avant-garde theatre: deliberate, powerful, and challenging to an audience accustomed to excess. I was also touched by how theatre is framed here not merely as entertainment or storytelling but as a space of communal survival. Can our creative spaces actually teach us how to endure and thrive? This question hit home because it aligns closely with experiences I've had in theatre workshops, where collective rituals and shared vulnerability have genuinely changed the way I approach relationships and even daily life.Ping Chong’s intentional stepping back, offering others the freedom to shape their paths, is an inspiring act of humility and generosity. It made me think of ensemble theatre, dance collectives, and orchestras—how passing the baton isn't about loss, but about trust in new visions. This act itself is artful, a kind of drama where letting go is just as meaningful as holding on.
Beautifully spoken words. This article is incredibly empowering, especially as an Asian. It is a reminder that in the arts, you must have a north star. Someone that empowers you to make a difference, someone that reminds you of who you are and how that translates in what you create. It was amazing reading about Ping Chong and this company. In the article, they touch upon the importance of creating art and being as authentic as possible, even through such a dark and threatening time for marginalized communities. Also realizing when to let go of something, especially in a leadership position. Ping’s words on letting the company become what its destined to become, rather than forcing an idea/expectation on the future is really impactful. Even though his name is the name of the company, his trust in the future is really moving and says a lot about his character and how he views creative endeavors. Overall, such a powerful speech that was posted.
This speech is about so much more than just a company persisting. It's about where to go when you finally are on your own. What path do you follow? The one you’ve been on, or do you make your own? These are important questions to consider when making art. I believe that I make art to inspire and to make a difference. I want my art to be remembered and thought about. It is my job as an artist to speak about what I believe in, even if the world doesn’t want to hear it. I think the questions of “Why do we exist? How do we continue? What do we hold onto? When do we let go?” are incredibly valuable questions to ask yourself in the face of uncertainty and change. The unfortunate truth is that nothing will ever stay, but the exciting part is that nothing will ever stay! The world is changing, how am I going to contribute?
Post a Comment