Virginia Arts Leaders Step into the Spotlight with Mentorship from Broadway, Alvin Ailey, and More
By Stella Violet
In an inspiring journey of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of inclusivity, four young Black arts administrators from Prince William County recently embarked on a transformative mentorship trip to New York City to connect with some of the most influential institutions in performing arts.
Led by veteran performance artist and arts advocate Herb Williams (also known as Antoneo Brehon), the group’s mission is to break down barriers and create opportunities for emerging Black leaders in the arts.
They were able to visit renowned organizations such as the Manhattan Association of Cabaret, the Broadway League, Actor’s Equity, and Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.
The group also had the privilege of meeting with CitiBank representative Otis B. Bank and participated in an exclusive workshop led by Dr. Erin Hilgart, CEO of Executive Leadership Programs.
For many of these arts administrators, this was a milestone in their careers – and a dream come true.
“This visit was not just a professional milestone but a powerful narrative of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of inclusivity in the arts,” said one of the participants. “None of us had ever been to Broadway before. To finally see a Broadway show and have the chance to meet with people who make it all happen was truly surreal.”
One highlight of the trip was when the group was able to engage with the marketing and management team of the Alvin Ailey Dance Theater, where they also participated in their first-ever dance class – a personal and professional milestone.
For many of these administrators, dance and performance art are integral parts of their vision for the arts in Northern Virginia, where they are dedicated to fostering creativity and inclusion.
“The arts community in Prince William County has long needed more representation in leadership positions, particularly from underrepresented communities,” said Williams, who has spent years advocating for change in the arts landscape. “This mentorship initiative is a powerful step in the right direction, and we are so grateful to these organizations for welcoming us into their spaces.”
In addition to engaging with industry leaders, the group also had the chance to experience firsthand the energy and excitement of Broadway, a key moment that affirmed their ambitions.
The Broadway League generously provided tickets to several shows, and the group had their first look into the world of Broadway productions, expanding their understanding of both the artistic and logical aspects of running live performances.
Back in Virginia, their experience will continue to have a ripple effect as the group prepares to expand their gallery, Open Space Arts, into the cabaret realm.
According to its website, Open Space Arts is “a community of artists, art enthusiasts, and students working side-by-side in a friendly environment that encourages and inspires artistic growth.”
Its mission is to help elevate diverse voices in the arts and create a cultural hub in Northern Virginia, the lessons learned in New York will directly influence their future work.
“This trip was more than just a learning experience – it’s about creating opportunities for people like us to have a seat at the table,” said another participant. “We’re taking these lessons and applying them to our work back home. This is just the beginning of a bigger movement.”
Open Space Arts is currently hosting an exhibit until Nov. 24, 2024 titled, ‘Broadway: The Heart of NYC’s Arts and Culture’ portraying the “glitz and glamour of the stage, the artistry of costumes and set design, and the bustling energy of Times Square.”
