Dance Mission Theater

Skywatchers’ upcoming presentation of Towards Opulence, the Opera is a celebration of dance, song, and spoken word co-created with Tenderloin residents. This premiere performance weaves together the stories of belonging, resilience, and hope that all too often go untold. This new work features original music and choral direction by Melanie DeMore, co-created with contributing artists Jennifer Johns, Valerie Troutt, and many more. “We have woven a piece about dreams that might become reality. While living this art, some of us have moved into—and past—their dreams,” said Skywatchers Lead Artist Joel Yates.  “We carry with us our families along with the blessing of our stories. It is our hope that this process of being human needs no great explanation, but in this humble presentation we all might be reminded of the greatness of our process. Come find rest and see yourselves standing with us in Opulence.” Towards Opulence, the Opera is part of an ongoing act of creative resistance and imaginative reclamation. Skywatchers believe that Tenderloin residents — and other marginalized people — are the truth tellers of our society, akin to the mythical Cassandras. By breathing life into often overlooked or discredited truths, we remember our interdependence and expose the […]