In the News
Civic Theatre presents month-long diversity program
Tom Weber
January 7, 2010
It's not unusual for theaters to have a dialogue coach to assist actors.
But Rochester Civic Theatre is about to take that a step further by becoming a dialogue coach for the community.
Starting Saturday, and through the month of January, RCT will host a variety of events intended to explore and celebrate diversity and inclusivity in Rochester.
"I'm really hopeful we're going to have an extended dialogue in this community about race and diversity," said Gregory Stavrou, executive director of RCT.
Diversity in the community at large will be reflected by variety on stage. Over the next few weeks, RCT will host live music, poetry competitions, a film festival and plays.
The month-long program, "Celebrating Diversity and Inclusivity," is co-sponsored by the Rochester Diversity Council, and is somewhat expanded from similar offerings last January.
"The overriding sentiment last year was a feeling of gratitude," Stavrou said. "People came up to us and said, 'Thank you for doing this.' It's pretty wonderful when the feedback is a very simple 'Thank you.'"
Included in the run of events is RCT's own January production, "Doubt," which dovetails nicely with the themes of diversity and inclusivity. The play is just one of several events that will include post-performance discussions.
As far as Stavrou is concerned, hosting these events is a natural role for RCT.
"I really do feel that the theater is a resource for the community in many ways," he said.
© 2010 Post Bulletin. Used by permission.
