They were afraid that one woman --could act as a catalystThey were afraid that one woman --could challenge the status-quoAnd you know –they were right!Scene 8 - Not an ObjectVashti (Esth 1:9-19; 2:1; 4:17)
In a talk back after a performance, Dr. Linda Schearing explained that ‘scripture’ lives beyond a single point in time through its universally effective message. This is a living, breathing script; each reiteration brings new life from the visions of scenic and costume designers. Weaving Our Sisters’ Voices is meant to grow alongside the community engaging it, much like the Scripture it comes from.
Audience members found the design elements enriching. The sloping stage depicting sand and rocks set the scene. The rhythmic dances and movements and the accompanying music emphasized the weaving of the women’s stories. The beige fabric pieces that became scarves, head coverings, mats, baby wrappings, and covers, gave visual meaning to what was happening in the stories.
"The large circular object at center stage that was taken apart and reassembled by the players was a mosaic of how all the women’s trials and hardships, courage and faith formed an interwoven pattern. The story of the Levite’s concubine and the dismantling of the object was a stunning introduction to the presentation."
– Ellen Hargrove, audience member 2015
In the end, the collaborative process resulted in a unity of creative elements which helped tell the story. I was proud of the collaboration with my colleagues, and it is always a good education for my students to see how that process works.