STILL

Emily Dickinson and Dr. Maya Angelou – what connects these two poets, and where do their unique sparks diverge? This newly devised play explores these questions within the story of two sisters. The sisters reunite at their childhood home and reflect on their relationship with their mother in a tender, heartwarming journey of expression and healing. What’s inside a house? What’s inside a heart? The writings of Angelou and Dickinson are woven into a beautiful story of brokenness, change, memory, and joy.

This performance offers an opportunity to enjoy the words and perspectives from two distinct poets from different eras and cultures, sharing a story of the search for truth and redemptive moments in challenging times. As Director Maria-Tania Bandes B. Weingarden explains, “She took darkness and let it lead her to light, so perhaps we can find a way there,” referencing Angelou’s work.

This new work is shaped by five local devising artists and three lead collaborators in partnership with the UWT School of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences. STILL will be presented in workshop form, with the opportunity for audience feedback toward shaping the future of the play.



STILL Devising Team

• Cody Clark – Devising Artist
• Wonder Daniels – Devising Artist
• Jackie Edwards – Devising Artist
• Isabella Pettis-Infante – Devising Artist
• Celeste Reed – Devising Artist

STILL Devising Team/Production

• Maria-Tania Bandes B. Weingarden – Director/Co-collaborator
• Cody Clark - Assistant Director
• Sarah A. Chavez – Poetry Consultation/Co-collaborator
• Michael Kula – Devising Lead/Co-collaborator

STILL Performers:

• Kristina Dustan – Mother
• Erin Johnson – Painter
• Jasmine Wright – Non-Painter