Q: How can performing arts musical theater be a platform for social justice issues?

Inclusion. Representation is one of the biggest ways our performing world can fight and do right by social justice. The ability to be able to see not just yourself in a character, but see your own stories portrayed in art, is one of the best ways to both represent and give people an opportunity to heal and change and grow. I remember going to see Choir Boy, which was on Broadway this past season for a short time. In my opinion, it was one of the first times I was able to absolutely connect with a character on stage, as an African American homosexual male. Many times, when the African American side is told and the homosexual side, you end up not hearing our specific story. Seeing queer people of color on stage be given a voice that is authentic and true to the time we live in is major. That speaks to my personal story, but I can only imagine it goes for anyone who doesn't quite see themselves fully expressed in art. Fully connecting to a character and story is a really powerful emotion.