Climate Change

I spent June and July coordinating a theatre camp as part of my job with Cage Free Voices. Despite being a small camp, it was a really big deal.

To begin with, it was the first real leadership responsibility that my boss, Bathsheba, entrusted me with. The company is her baby, her vision. She's done all the foundational work. It was an honor to carry on that torch.

Secondly, this was the first project I've coordinated since leaving teaching. Yes, I participated in other projects, but not in this capacity, and not one with quite so many moving pieces. It's the kind of work I want to do and I am good at it. I'm ready to do more.

Since beginning May, this experience included a lot of firsts. First time conducting job interviews and hiring an instructor. First time talking logistics with an orginazation as renowned as the Kennedy Center. First time reaching out to friends I've haven't spoken to in decades in order to ask for help.  First time overseeing a final workshop that featured locals and internationals, in-person and virtual. First time taking a business trip.

I learned a lot.

The camp almost didn't happen. It was set to start July 11. On July 8, we had no campers. In all our recruiting conversations, we were met with a high degree of interest, and very low commitment. We understood. People are tired this summer and need to slow down. At the same time, I really wanted honor this opportunity.

Fortunately, after many pivots and creative adjustments, things came together. Our instructor, Amna, was amazingly understanding throughout all the ups, downs, and resulting changes. Unfailingly, Bathsheba would be struck with inspiration in the same moment that my ideas had run out. The Kennedy Center remained supportive; it seems everyone is experiencing a similar lethargy. 

The final preview looked nothing like the orginal vision, but quite a few people, both kids and adults, stretched themselves in unexpected ways. It was beautiful.
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My greatest takeaway was seeing the good things that can happen when you are able to trust the people around you. When you can let go and make plans that allow room for life. Watching Amna apply her positive, theater-trained, "yes, and" attitude to our practical problems was everything I ever wanted from a colleague. I've worked in several toxic, rush-rush settings and it was encouraging to see a different environment. It felt good to know I played a role in creating it. 
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