Submitted by Rhea Miller
Three internationally renowned facilitators return to Lopez for two days of engagement, March 23 and 24, that both entertains and deepens of community. Richard Geer is the artistic director and the founder of Story Bridge. People Magazine says, “Director Geer heals troubled communities with the magic of theatre — and the gift of new hope.” An artist, philosopher and educator, Richard has directed over 40 Story Bridge plays and numerous workshops on five continents of the world.
He is joined by Qinghong Wei, executive director, a scholar-artist, and has served as CEO of a prestigious foundation and co-founder of an award-winning social enterprise. Also part of the team is Iega (Kevin Jeff) an internationally acclaimed dancer and choreographer. Iega is named as one of The Juilliard School’s 100 Outstanding Alumni in celebration of the school’s centenary anniversary, and co-founder and artistic director of Deeply Rooted Dance Theater in Chicago.
Story Bridge uses participants’ personal stories with creative expression to engage deep dialogue, enable authentic relationship building, and facilitate individual and community transformation. The facilitators have been refining this work for over 25 years. Rhea Miller, the Lopez Community Land Trust community liaison, and other LCLT staff and board members have participated in Story Bridge venues in places ranging from the Deep South, to hip Ashland, to the Central District of Seattle, and acknowledge that each one has been life-transforming.
Story Bridge begins with a daylong interactive session, culminating in a community performance at 7:30 p.m. Everyone participates, whether in stage acting or making music, behind the scenes, or being the original source of the story. The second day is devoted to making a safe space to explore the elephants in the room of our lives locally, from the rights of nature to the impacts of population surges on our community. Can we find common ground in a “third place,” or will we remain focused on winning our own perspective. Will we wake up to what is happening bit by bit to our surroundings and relationships?
The second day will focus on what is most urgent for the Lopez community in light of unfolding events. Participants will pursue our deepening relationships and a sense of “community” that cares for one another into the future, which has never been more challenged than today.
Childcare will be provided on Saturday, March 23. Catered lunches and Saturday dinner may be reserved for $15 each meal. Vortex will cater lunch on Saturday, Taco ‘Bout It will do Saturday dinner, and Vitas will cater Sunday lunch. All meals will have a vegetarian option, and lunches will offer a vegan option. Reservations for childcare and meals must be made by March 18! For reservations email lcltda@rockisland.com. Everyone is welcome to attend.
