Production of As One
I spearheaded the conceptualization, marketing, and development of an avant-garde production called As One. This groundbreaking opera presents a compelling and thought-provoking narrative centered around Hannah, a transgender woman, as she endeavors to resolve the discord between herself and the outside world.
Working on this production ignited an immense passion within me. I was deeply involved in nearly every aspect of the show’s creation, ranging from art direction to media training, promotion, and beyond. Prior to production and planning, I collaborated with Gender Youphoria, a Strategic Media Consulting firm renowned for their expertise in authentic transgender narratives. They provided invaluable guidance in shaping the artistic direction and crafting the language surrounding the production.
Ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the show’s themes and messaging was paramount for all team members, spanning from the stage manager to our publicity team. We strived to effectively communicate an inclusive and genuine storyline that would educate and inspire the diverse Columbus audience. Together, we worked diligently to equip the entire team with the necessary tools to articulate the essence of the show to the public.
Marketing the show was a profound privilege. We had the opportunity to engage in heartfelt conversations with several transgender residents in Columbus, delving into their personal stories. It was crucial for us to convey that while As One portrayed Hannah’s journey on stage, every individual possesses their unique As One moment in life. These captivating narratives were shared across social media platforms to foster increased awareness and support for inclusivity in the arts.
DATE: FALL 2019
CLIENT: OPERA COLUMBUS
CATEGORIES: PROMOTION, STRATEGY
Commissioned Documentary
Opera Columbus collaborated with a talented local filmmaker to produce a documentary. The filmmaker conducted captivating interviews with residents, capturing their stories on camera. The resulting masterpiece, titled “Visibili-T,” was thoughtfully screened after each performance of As One, providing an enriching and immersive experience for the audience. Additionally, a special Community Conversation event was organized between performances, featuring a talk-back session with the participants featured in the film. This unique opportunity allowed for an engaging and inclusive dialogue, fostering a deeper connection between the production and the community it served.
HIGHLIGHTS
STAFF TRAINING
Helped train Opera Columbus staff, the Board of Directors, and our PR team on the correct way to talk about transgender issues within the community and on the news.
MEDIA CONSULTANT
Brought in and collaborated with a Transgender Media Consulting organization.
COLLABORATION
Collaborated with Fifth Third Bank to organize Opera Columbus’ involvement in Columbus PRIDE 2019, featuring this production.