North Bay Woman

F A L L 2 0 1 7 | NORTH BAY WOMAN 51 Our founding team of six artists drove across the country to do research, and the moment we arrived in Sonoma we knew it was the place. A series of events led us to Jack London State Historic Park which was slated to close — so we only had six weeks (and $83!) to pull off our first concert, a fundraiser for the park. We put together a one-night-only concert and despite our new presence in the community it sold out when 900 people came! To date we've raised over $351,000 for the park. 5 What is it about Transcendence Theatre that resonates with people? Transcendence is about energy and people caring about each other. And musical theater is one of the most powerful art forms because it has song, it has music, it has dance and it has a story that allows people to escape from their lives. The arts and nature together — being at the park — are also very healing. People leave feeling inspired and uplifted. 6 Transcendence. That's such a powerful word. What is the significance to you? There is a moment in dance that I have always called "transcen- dence." It's that moment where you feel free, and all of your joy and love and creativity could soar out of you and be shared with the world. Transcendence Theatre is about sharing that same joy and love and creativity with an audience and through engage- ment with the community both onstage and off. 7 What can you tell other women who want to pursue a dream? I think deep down we all feel something in our hearts — intuition — about what we should do. But sometimes things can get in the way. I find that being silent — when you can listen to your heart and ask the question, 'Is this what I really want to do?' — is transformative. And then committing to it and believing it creates the magic. It doesn't mean the journey's going to be easy, but dreams can come true if you commit to them. 8 Transcendence Theatre will be at Marin Center in March 2018. What can we expect to see? 'Ladies of Broadway' at Marin Center will be a dynamic and inspiring show with eight powerhouse women from Broadway shows. The audience will get to know the artists intimately, and they'll be entranced by the songs that these women have sung on Broadway and beyond. 9 What's next for Transcendence Theatre? Beginning with Broadway Under The Stars in 2012, we've expanded our programming each year. Last year we were thrilled to bring our first show to Marin Center ('Best of Broad- way Under The Stars'). As we grow we look forward to expand- ing our audience base to San Francisco and beyond, while keeping our home in the North Bay. There are grand dreams of developing new works that could transfer to Broadway. In addition to the shows we produce, at the heart of our mission are our community outreach initiatives serving our values of art, education, children, health and the environment. 10 And how about you? What's next for Amy Miller? I am living the dream. For now, I am right where I need to be." n For more information about Transcendence Theater and the holiday schedule, visit transcendencetheatre.org. Left to right: Amy Miller and Broadway cast. – Photo by Candy Glass Productions; Miller ready for her close up. – Photo provided by Transcendence Theater

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