Diversity Theatre Advocacy

In the heart of Tompkins County, a group of passionate students is shaking up the local theater scene with a mission to promote diversity and combat discrimination in the arts. Harmony Theatre Collective, co-founded by Olivia Celenza in 2021, is at the forefront of this movement, advocating for equitable opportunities for actors of color and challenging traditional casting norms. 

The Collective's Mission

The Collective's inception stems from a deep-seated acknowledgment of the pervasive systemic exclusion endured by people of color (POC) in the theater industry. Olivia, spurred by a distressing encounter with online shaming on the anonymous chat room app, Yik Yak, after her portrayal of Donkey in the Shrek showcase, was compelled to act. This personal ordeal propelled Olivia's determination to confront the issue head-on, leading to the establishment of Harmony Theatre Collective. The aim? To cultivate environments where POC actors and actresses are not merely tokenized but revered for their innate talent and authenticity.

Through interviews with Olivia and members of the Collective, it becomes evident that their work goes beyond mere rhetoric. Currently, while jumpstarting their production this spring, the Collective is actively providing platforms for POC actors to showcase their talent. Ithaca's

African American Music History

In a recent interview with Baruch Whitehead, Professor of Music Education and Arts Director at Ithaca College, insights were shared from his 22-year tenure. As the conductor of the Amani Gospel and Jubilee Choir, Whitehead emphasized the significance of incorporating black history into music education. "I ensure my students grasp the roots of music and dance within the African Diaspora," Whitehead stated, shedding light on the cultural depth embedded in the hymns and spiritual songs performed by his choirs. His commitment to cultural enrichment resonates deeply, particularly as he prepares to make history this May as the first black male full professor at the institution.

Olivia emphasized the importance of amplifying diverse voices and narratives on stage. "Representation matters," Olivia asserts. "It's not just about filling a quota; it's about telling stories authentically and giving everyone a chance to shine."

The HTC Member Experience

In a recent interview, Jaiden Collier, serving as Harmony Theatre Collective's secretary and the sole Texan member, shared his observations regarding the state's theater landscape. Emphasizing the scarcity of opportunities and diverse representation, particularly in roles devoid of POC, Collier remarked, "My upbringing in Texas lacked individuals resembling me in the theater." He attributed his sense of belonging to Harmony, asserting, "Olivia's outreach resonated with me deeply." Collier's narrative sheds light on the industry's inequities and underscores Harmony's pivotal role in advocating for inclusivity.

The members of Harmony Theatre Collective echo this sentiment, sharing their experiences of navigating an industry rife with discrimination. From being overlooked for roles to facing microaggressions during auditions, the Collective's members understand firsthand the barriers that exist for POC actors.

Clarke Reyedoya, director of Harmony Theatre Collective, emphasized the paramount importance of representation and shared his motivation for involvement. “With Harmony, I'm more than what I look like. Harmony Theatre Collective is more than just a theater group; it's where people can just be.” he asserted. Reyedoya candidly expressed disappointment upon arriving in Ithaca, expecting greater diversity only to find otherwise. “With Harmony, I'm more than what I look like. Harmony Theatre Collective is more than just a theater group; it's where people can just be.” He expressed his disappointment with coming to Ithaca and had the impression of their diversity until he arrived.

In the arts sphere, Harmony Theatre Collective's push for diversity gains momentum. Notably, recent auditions saw a doubling in participation from both members and crew, indicating a growing acknowledgment of the value of representation in theater. This uptick underscores the organization's relevance amid ongoing discussions surrounding race and inclusion in the arts.