Performance Corner: Bridging the Gap Through Art

Performance Corner Thoughts... 

Most of us in the United States, especially, but around the world also right now are feeling the tension in the air. It doesn't matter what "side" you are on, the point is that sides have been created and the divisiveness has been promoted and is palpable. We all are feeling it regardless of what our ideals are. And this divisiveness can cause stress, panic, fear, sadness, anger, and beyond.

So how do we come back together and realize that we really are not as far apart as the media and politicians and others may be trying to make us feel?

By creating a sense of community and an open and safe arena where everyone is welcome to just be.

Sometimes that can be hard with a crowd mentality, but if you look under the surface and work to meet people on an individual level, I believe that's where true connection and healing can happen. And sometimes, well often- in my experience, finding that one thing that can help you connect with someone you might disagree with can help to bridge the gap and realize they are human, just like you are. And I often find that a connection through a favorite song, a piece of art, a favorite actor or author, movie or book can be that connection that we are all truly seeking.

There are real and very difficult problems in the world, yes, and they shouldn't be ignored. But those problems cannot be solved if we are all at each others' throats. So I challenge you this month to reach out to someone maybe you usually wouldn't and try to find a way to connect with them. Using the arts as an icebreaker can be a great way to do just that. You may walk away from the interaction feeling the same as you did before, or...you may walk away having made a genuine connection that might help everyone heal the tension in the air, just a little bit.