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Artsy


 

On this day eight years ago, the Chrysalis amphitheater was opened with speeches and celebrations. These words from State Senator Guy Guzzone turned up in my Facebook memories for today:

The arts show us who we are: good and bad. And in many ways they show us how we can be better.

These words are every bit as relevant today.

We recently had the opportunity to see the play Tick, Tick…Boom! At the Greenbelt Arts Center.

Director's Note

Our rehearsal process coincided with what would be Jonathan Larson's 65th birthday. He died right after turning 36. For someone to have such an awareness of his own mortality and create art to help others through their own grief, it's almost magical. I have loved this show since I was 17. This show deals with Jon completing a project he's worked on for five years, Superbia. I found that so poignant because I myself have been planning this show for six years. But what happens when we as artists have worked so long on a project we love so deeply? As Jon's agent says, we move onto the next, we create new art. That's what eventually led to Larson's biggest hit and most known part of his legacy, Rent. This musical also tells the story of Michael, a former actor who now works in corporate, and Susan, a dancer who now mainly teaches instead of performs. For anyone, no matter their career, it is essential to have art in their life. Art, music, literature, and theatre are where we gain knowledge and empathy.

I am so thankful for every person that comes to see this show. I hope everyone leaves with new inspiration for their art or how to cherish those that are still with us. And, of course, I hope you enjoy the show.

~Margo Myst McCready, Director

For anyone, no matter their career, it is essential to have art in their life. Art, music, literature, and theatre are where we gain knowledge and empathy.

The director (whose name may look familiar) said that this note was written during the same time that the leadership and board of the Kennedy Center of the Performing Arts were being decimated. Reading those words understanding that those events are the backdrop makes them all the more poignant and chilling.  Just imagine what those destructive actions by the current administration in Washington are having on those in the arts all over this country. 

If you care about the arts you have some local opportunities both to learn and express yourself. On Wednesday night the Columbia Association is holding the next in its ongoing series: Change in Columbia. Entitled: The Impact of Art, it will be held from 6 pm to 8 pm at Stone House in Long Reach. Discussions will focus on art as a community builder. Although Stone House is well-known as Columbia’s center for visual arts, I am assured that the focus will be inclusive of all of the arts. 

We all need art. Why? 

 It expresses the most unique parts of us and reflects our most intimate  emotions. And it's part of the foundation of Columbia.

Tap into your inner artist.

Experience the transformative power of art through interactive activities.

Participate in the conversation about how we use art to push boundaries, connect to one another and fit with the role of art in our ever-changing landscape.

 Join us at Change In Columbia: The Impact of Art

The event is free and free childcare will be provided but you must pre-register.

Register at ColumbiaAssociation.org/Change You may also register to participate via Zoom.

The Howard County Arts Council is inviting residents to take a survey as they formulate an Arts and Culture Master Plan. 



Help shape the future of arts & culture in Howard County by taking our quick survey today! 

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/XK2R8LC

Your voice will be part of the HoCo Arts and Culture Plan, guiding local creative growth, celebrating our community’s assets, and driving future investments. 

This is your chance to influence the future of the arts in Howard County! 

We are invited to participate and to make our voices heard. What a precious opportunity that is, especially right now. 


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