At the Sundance Film Festival this year, held in Park City, Utah, attendees were encouraged to rethink the art of filmmaking and theatre through the lens of artist care. As the festival prepares to transition to Boulder, Colorado, next year, discussions centered on the importance of prioritizing the well-being of artists and crew members over mere production outputs.
This year’s festival featured films that highlighted the intersection of theatre and independent filmmaking, including The Musical, starring Will Brill and Rob Lowe, a comedic exploration of a theatre teacher facing a casting controversy. Other notable films included American Pachuco: The Legend of Luis Valdez, which chronicles the legacy of Teatro Campesino’s founder, and If I Head Will They Miss Me, a poignant portrayal of the impacts of the penal system on familial relationships.
However, beyond the films, the festival was marked by a strong emphasis on community building and artist safety. Many panels focused on creating production environments that prioritize mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Notably, a session titled “Shield & Sustain: The Future of Artist Safety” featured panelists such as Adam-Michael Royston, April Reign, and Karim Ahmad, who discussed practical strategies for fostering a supportive atmosphere in the arts.
Prioritizing Safety in Artistic Spaces
Understanding the multifaceted nature of safety was a key theme. Panelists urged participants to contemplate how they define safety across various dimensions—physically, mentally, spiritually, economically, and legally. This holistic approach is essential for building effective production teams that value the individual’s well-being alongside creative goals.
Building Community Through Art
One impactful story shared during the festival was about the Beijing Queer Film Festival, the only remaining LGBTQIA+ film festival in China. In light of increasing censorship, the festival found innovative ways to continue showcasing films, including hosting screenings on trains when traditional venues were unavailable. This anecdote underscored the importance of adaptability and community resilience in the face of adversity.
The Role of Allyship in Theatre
April Reign, known for her advocacy in diversity and inclusion, emphasized the importance of allyship within the arts. She defined an ally as someone who bridges the gap for communities different from their own, advocating for equity without seeking recognition. This perspective prompts a reevaluation of how production teams and casting choices are made, urging a shift from transactional relationships to more meaningful, supportive connections.
Integrating Marketing with Care
Marketing was also highlighted as a vital component of care in the arts. Ramon Soto, vice president of marketing at Northwell Health, argued that understanding your audience and engaging with them proactively is crucial. This approach fosters trust and builds a loyal patron base, suggesting that regional theatres should integrate marketing strategies that prioritize community engagement rather than treating it as an afterthought.
Planting Seeds of Care
A session hosted by Brown Girls Doc Mafia, a collective of women-of-color documentarians, offered insights into the importance of building lasting relationships in documentary filmmaking. Panelists shared their experiences of navigating challenging environments and emphasized the demand for trust-building over mere artistic extraction. These lessons are particularly relevant for regional theatres aiming to engage authentically with their communities.
As Adam Faze, a prominent figure in content creation, remarked, “Consume less and create more.” This statement challenges artists and audiences alike to focus on impactful storytelling that fosters compassion and understanding, especially among younger demographics.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Care in Theatre
The insights gained from Sundance emphasize that the future of the nonprofit theatre industry hinges on a commitment to care, and adaptability. Artistic vision must embrace worker safety, and the willingness to pivot in response to community needs is paramount. Whether it’s adjusting creative elements for safety or changing programming to reflect community demographics, prioritizing care can lead to a more enriching experience for both artists and audiences.
As the festival concludes its chapter in Park City, the lessons learned about operationalizing care will undoubtedly influence the future of theatre. Engaging in meaningful discussions around safety, allyship, and community-building can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all involved in the arts.
What are your thoughts on how the arts can better prioritize care? Share your insights and experiences in the comments below.
