By: Reka Robinson, Communications Manager 

Since its inception, our Social Impact Theatre Grant Program has worked to harness the power of live theatre to bring different viewpoints together and spark meaningful dialogue. 

I had the joy of traveling to Littleton, a sister city of Denver, Colorado, to witness the regional premiere of “The Prom” by our partners at the Town Hall Arts Center (THAC).  

At its core “The Prom” tells the story of a same-sex couple in a small-town high school who wish to attend their prom together. This seemingly simple desire is met with significant opposition, shedding light on the discrimination and challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community. The production’s portrayal of this couple’s struggles is profoundly moving, a portrait of courage and resilience required to challenge traditional and institutional norms. 

As a foundation committed to supporting theatre productions that advance our value of fostering inclusivity, I am proud that we supported “The Prom,” a vibrant and emotionally charged musical. The Town Hall Arts Center (THAC), exemplifies our shared dedication in using the power of live theatre to elevate diverse perspectives on critical contemporary issues. In a world where individuals still face discrimination based on their identities, this production is both timely and inspiring. Through its compelling characters and heartfelt storyline, “The Prom” illuminates the enduring fight for equality, making it profoundly relevant to audiences today. 

For the community of Littleton, “The Prom” harnessed the power of bringing different viewpoints together and provided a lens through which to process these critical contemporary issues. I was particularly impressed by how THAC creatively enlisted Dr. Keely Hunter, a PhD in Rhetoric and Communication Ethics, to facilitate deeper conversations about the issues presented in the musical. Dr. Hunter, who teaches at Arapahoe Community College, specializes in how messages and cultural elements shape our identities and relationships. 

“Her insights during the talkback sessions were invaluable, as they provided a platform for different generations to express their views and seek understanding,” says Robert Michael Sanders, Chief Operating Officer at Town Hall Arts Center. 

Robert informed me that Dr. Hunter’s expertise in communication ethics helped highlight how perceptions can vary greatly among individuals. Many cast members in “The Prom” felt misunderstood by their community, while older patrons often found themselves grappling with new concepts such as gender pronouns. Despite these differences, the talkback sessions were characterized by a mutual desire for understanding and respect. 

The talkback sessions also personify the Foundation’s values of intentionality and innovation with initiating meaningful conversations for its audience. By exploring these personal narratives, the production encouraged even me to examine my own biases and prejudices, particularly regarding my faith, and inspired me to have deeper conversations with peers about what it truly means to “love thy neighbor.” What we do know is that such reflections had by me, the cast and audience members, promote a more inclusive community, humanize these experiences, and bridge gaps in understanding, making it a powerful tool for social impact, education, and dialogue.    

This production was an inspiring example of how the arts can foster empathy and inclusivity while exposing the systems that prevent people from living as their true selves, reaffirming my belief in the transformative power of theater. It was a powerful reminder of why we support partners like Town Hall Arts Center and productions like “The Prom” – to create spaces for difficult conversations and ensure that everyone’s voice can be heard.