Blog
August 28, 2024
At South Fulton Arts, we are deeply committed to advancing equity in everything we do. We believe that everyone deserves a seat at the table and a voice in the conversation. This principle of equity informs our inclusive arts programming and our engagement with the community, ensuring that everyone has access to the transformative power of the arts.
Theater is a profound medium for advancing equity, as it brings diverse stories to life and connects us all. Our upcoming play-reading series, featuring Bekah Brunstetter’s The Cake, is a poignant example of this.
The Cake delves into themes of love, acceptance, and the complexity of human relationships. It tells the story of Della, a North Carolina baker whose traditional values are put to the test when she is asked to bake a wedding cake for a same-sex couple—one of whom is like a daughter to her. As Della navigates her beliefs, the play explores the tensions between holding onto one’s values and opening up to others, ultimately challenging us to consider what belonging and equity truly mean.
Bekah Brunstetter, known for her work on the groundbreaking show This Is Us, brings personal insight into these characters. In a 2019 interview, she shared, "I wanted to write a play in which a person like [Della] was the hero and then put that character on a journey of change. But I also, to speak out the other side of my mouth, as protective as I feel about that character, I also have my own anger and frustration with her values. I also wanted to give myself an opportunity to put myself in conversation with her and challenge her.”
This is the transformative power of the arts: to cultivate empathy, spark important conversations, and remind us that equity is not just about inclusion but about truly valuing every story and perspective.
Our mission at South Fulton Arts is to create spaces where equity is more than an ideal—it’s a reality. Through our programming, we strive to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to see their story reflected on stage and to engage in meaningful dialogue. We invite you to join us in this journey of fostering equity and belonging through the arts.
In Community,
Jennifer Bauer-Lyons
Executive Director