zAmya Theater Project Advocates for Housing Justice
Maren explains how the core tenets of theater are well-suited to support zAmya’s aims. To name a few:
There are no small parts; only small actors
Reliance on the group builds trust
Everyone is needed
PC: Bruce Silcox
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Perhaps you have been fortunate enough to catch a performance by Minneapolis-based zAmya Theater Project. REACH met with Artistic Director Maren Ward this week outside her office in Pillsbury House + Theater to hear more about zAmya’s purpose and offerings.
zAmya produced shows that highlight issues related to homelessness and illuminates some of the systems at play in conditions that allow it to continue. Often humorous, and always lively and educational, the shows have been staged all over the Twin Cities and greater Minnesota. Creative Expression Sessions and workshop opportunities are currently offered weekly. People with a past or current lived experience with homelessness are especially invited and will receive a $20 Walmart gift card.
Until fairly recently, zAmya was housed and run under the wing of St. Stephen’s. Now its own 501c3, there is more to manage.
Sustaining ongoing relationships is rare in the artistic world. In the past, the company of actors were employees and the intention is to reinstate that status under the new non-profit. Since its inception in 2004, zAmya has made a practice of listening to the voices of those with lived experience of homelessness in creating and shaping the direction of the work, and naming the next important subject matter, partners and regions. There is much to be gained from this relational and ongoing approach. Troupe members share social networks and recover from the trauma of social isolation ultimately developing change that can fuel improvements in civic life.
“If the goal of theatre is to identify with the humanity of another person, this is prime ground for actually increasing understanding between housed and unhoused people. ”
WHERE
WHEN
See upcoming events here
WHY
Our Vision
zAmya Theater envisions empowered and interconnected communities that stop staring, start seeing, and change the systems that dehumanize us.
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