Downstage @ the Mann places both audience and artists together on the Presser Foundation Stage in our TD Pavilion in an up-close performance setting. This intimate, in-the-round series offers a new level of performance, engagement, and immersion. Downstage debuted in 2022, earning a 'Best of Philly' award from Philadelphia Magazine.
This year’s series will explore the theme of “Acceptance,” highlighting works that tell stories of LGBTQ+ individuals and offering reflections on the ongoing journey toward inclusivity and understanding. The first performance on August 16 will feature GRAMMY®-nominated Americana singer-songwriter Amythyst Kiah, whose insightful lyrics reflect her own journey towards self-acceptance. On October 10, GRAMMY®-winning vocal ensemble Conspirare and composer Craig Hella Johnson present the choral drama Considering Matthew Shepard, an evocative and compassionate inquiry into acceptance
August 16
WXPN Welcomes Amythyst Kiah
Don’t miss the 2024 Downstage @ the Mann premier with GRAMMY®-nominated Americana artist Amythyst Kiah on Friday, August 16. Hailed by Rolling Stone as “one of roots music’s most promising new voices,” Kiah’s songwriting is a raw yet nuanced examination of her lived experience and journey towards total self-acceptance. Her music explores her identity as a Black and LGBTQ woman, and in particular, her years spent feeling othered living in areas of Tennessee that did not reflect her own identity. The intimate Downstage @ the Mann performance setting offers the ideal environment in which to explore the songwriter’s music in an engaging, welcoming way.
October 10
Considering Matthew Shepard
On October 10, GRAMMY®-winning vocal ensemble Conspirare and composer Craig Hella Johnson present the choral drama Considering Matthew Shepard, an evocative and compassionate inquiry into acceptance. Inspired by the 1998 murder of Matthew Shepard, a young gay man in Laramie, Wyoming, the work offers audiences a chance to explore themes of anti-hate, compassion, and understanding in a powerful way. The story invites audience members to consider how we “other” people and how we can move towards acceptance. While Matthew’s untimely death occurred 25 years ago, these conversations remain relevant in today’s time of deep division.
This three-part choral drama intricately blends world-class choral performance with poetry, personal journals, interviews, writings, and newspaper reports. It aims to instill a renewed sense of acceptance, introspection, unity - and above all - hope in all those who attend.
October 9
A Conversation with Judy & Dennis Shepard Honoring Matthew Shepard's Legacy
Join us at William Way LGBT Community Center on October 9 for a conversation with Judy and Dennis Shepard honoring the legacy of their son Matthew Shepard, whose untimely passing 25 years ago sparked significant change in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. Community members are invited to hear The Shepards' story and share their own experiences at this special event moderated by Ebony Ali, William Way board member and manager of the young adult leadership program at GALAEI, a QTBIPOC social justice organization.
A Conversation with Judy & Dennis Shepard on October 9 is free and open to the public; advance registration is recommended. This initiative is presented by the Mann in partnership with William Way LGBT Community Center.
The Mann is proud to serve as a creative catalyst for civic, youth, and economic development that enriches the lives of our Parkside neighbors and the Greater Philadelphia region, fulfilling our non-profit mission. We're honored to welcome Judy and Dennis Shepard to Philadelphia for this special engagement ahead of Considering Matthew Shepard at the Mann Center for the Performing Arts on October 10.