Welcome to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, episode 13, 'Theater; So Much More Than a Stage'.
My guests in this episode are Luis Cardenas and Sarah 'Rosie' Rosenberg, Co-Artistic Directors and Co-Founders, Open Hydrant Theater Company. Open Hydrant is the only AEA Professional Ensemble Theatre Company serving the youth of the Bronx.
As CEO of the Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation, it was so wonderful chatting with Rosie and Luis who truly understand how much the performing arts means to those who need the creative outlet.
Open Hydrant is a resource for young artists who want to pursue a professional career in performance. Rosie was running a high school theater company doing speech debate in Los Angeles. Back then, Luis was a student at the school and stopped by her classroom, pointed at the trophies that their theater company won and said, "I want one of those". From that moment on Rosie took Luis under her wing as she then also found out that he had an unsettled home life and really was soon to be homeless. He became Rosie's assistant and from their a mentorship and friendship grew.
A documentary was made from the work that they did in Los Angeles with the nationally recognized high school theater group that they worked with. It was shown at the Tribeca Film Festival, on Showtime, and is available for streaming.
Sarah and Luis see their students as an extended family and do what they can to support them in any way that they can. Listen to Rosie share how she purchased glasses for a child who was in her program because his parents were unable to replace the ones that he broke.
Luis shares that many of those with amazing talent leave the Bronx when they graduate and very few come back to support the area. This is a topic that he is very passionate about and hopes that over time and with some effort that will change. Open Hydrant continues to be this beacon of hope for the youth in that area.
Listen to Rosie share an incredible story during the question of, if you knew then what you know now? She shares a story of an alumni student who she met again by accident on the streets in NYC and how he has truly helped Open Hydrant in many ways. He also came back to share his story with their students. This was an impactful segment of our conversation.
Theater is so much more than a stage. It is a sisterhood, a brotherhood, a place to gather and share, and for many a home. The performing arts is a connector and in areas where many may feel a bit separated theaters and performing arts venues are a place where everyone has something in common - the opportunity to be transported to another place and time.
Thank you to Luis and Sarah for sharing their amazing story of mentorship, entrepreneurship, and creating not just a non-profit organization, but a for-impact organization that provides so much positivity to the youth of the Bronx.
Please go to www.openhydrant.org for more information about their programs and upcoming shows.
Next week on Today is the Day Changemakers my guest is Mark Valli, CEO of Norwescap. Mark and his team are helping so many in areas where support is so needed. Hope you will listen in.
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