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Changing the Narratives of Black, Indigenous & People of Color Through Art

The Twin Cities Theatres of Color Coalition discusses the role performing arts plays in social change.

We know art has a way of healing.

In fact, Dipankar Mukherjee, artistic director for Pangea World Theater, goes one step further and says, “Art is food.” Mukherjee is one of five guests who joined the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation for our first-ever virtual Giving+Together event on August 20.

Donors gathered online to hear representatives from the Twin Cities Theatres of Color Coalition (TCTOCC) talk about the importance of the performing arts and its power to tell stories, share truths, call out injustices and change narratives. We were grateful to have had the voices of these leaders share the need for truth and expression in the face of our current realities.

Our friends from TCTOCC included:

Sarah Bellamy, artistic director for Penumbra Theatre
Alberto Justiniano, executive/artistic director for Teatro del Pueblo
Dipankar Mukherjee, artistic director for Pangea World Theater
Lily Tung Crystal, artistic director for Theater Mu
Rhiana Yazzie, creator and executive director of New Native Theatre

We thank these talented artists for sharing their experiences with our donors. See highlights from our recent Giving+Together event by watching the video below.

Coalition Represents Communities of Color

TCTOCC was formed by these five theaters of color after seeing an increase in racial tensions and stereotypical depictions of people of color on stage.

Factors like the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent rise in racial tension after the murder of George Floyd are impacting these theaters financially and functionally. Some have opened up their spaces for healing, while others have found ways to provide classes and training.

“Artists have been on the front lines of the social justice movement for generations in this country,” said Sarah. “So when you invest in artists of color you're not only investing in art but the community as well.”

If you are a fundholder with the Foundation and would like to support TCTOCC, log in to DonorView and recommend a grant to Penumbra Theatre, with the grant purpose as TCTOCC. You may also give online via Penumbra Theatre’s website; please specify that your donation is for TCTOCC.

Learn about upcoming Giving+Together events

Inspire Generosity Donors Video