Moving with trust, leading with empathy

Stage managers do not set the culture in the rehearsal room, but they play a vital part in the safety that is fostered in that community. Building trust and showing empathy to one another happens from our first interactions. It happens with us viewing each other as people first. In my time here at the University of Iowa I have had the chance to tell almost exclusively BIPOC stories, and those stories must be done with a certain level of care that starts with us laying a foundation for a community together. If we cannot be truthful and honest in rehearsal spaces with each other, then how can we be truthful and honest in telling stories together while on stage.