Considering Matthew Shepard

February 22, 2025

Fort Hayes Career Center, Performing Arts Center

Considering Matthew Shepard by Craig Hella Johnson is a profound choral work that reflects on the life, legacy, and tragic death of Matthew Shepard, a young gay man murdered in a 1998 hate crime. The piece masterfully weaves texts from Hildegard of Bingen, Rumi, Lesléa Newman, Michael Dennis Browne, and Matthew’s own journal, along with reflections from his parents, Judy and Dennis Shepard.

This moving oratorio compels listeners to confront the devastating realities of hate and its far-reaching impact. Through themes of love, loss, and social change, it invites reflection on how we can foster compassion and inclusivity in our communities. Both a tribute and a call to action, Considering Matthew Shepard transforms grief into hope and inspires change.

Echoes of Tradition

Artwork by Hemalatha Venkataraman

May 19, 2024 

Fort Hayes Career Center, Performing Arts Center

Converging Arts Columbus proudly presents Echoes of Tradition, a captivating multi-disciplinary production crafted in collaboration with Madhavi Sudhir and the Natyapriya Indian Classical Dance School and Sarah Hixon and Hixon Dance. This extraordinary production seamlessly blends the rich tapestries of Eastern and Western traditions, spanning from classical to modern eras.

Echoes of Tradition is an artistic convergence that harmoniously unites Indian Classical Dance with Western Ballet and Contemporary Dance, set against the backdrop of traditional Indian music and contemporary concert work by living composers such as Shruthi Rajasekar, Reena Esmail, and Kanniks Kannikeswaran, with visual art by local artist Hemalatha Venkataraman.

Renowned choreographer Madhavi Sudhir will bring to life a diverse array of performances, featuring solo, duo, and ensemble dances rooted in the Kathak, Bharatanatyam, and Kuchipudi classical dance styles. Immerse yourself in a sensory journey as the production unfolds, showcasing the unique palette of Indian classical instruments including Mridangam, Tabla, Chenda, Idakka, Veena, Flute, Indian Violin, Nattuvangam Cymbals, Elathalam, and Carnatic and Hindustani Vocals. These evocative sounds will intertwine seamlessly with Western classical ensembles, featuring piano, string quartet, and classical voice.