On March 1 and 2, Viewpoint held its second annual VOSOVOS: Our Stories. Our Voices. Our Stage, an original, student-led theatrical production, reflecting a unique collaboration between the Conservatory of Theatre and the Office of Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Life. The eagerly anticipated performance took place in the Ahmanson Foundation Black Box Theater, with the cast and crew receiving a standing ovation at both sold-out shows.

Led by Viewpoint School’s Theatre Department Chair Scott Feldsher, and Director of Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Life Patricia Jackson, last year’s showcase of student-generated theatre proved to be highly impactful, significantly influencing Viewpoint’s Diversity Leadership Day programming. Through the power of storytelling, this is one of the many opportunities to encourage and amplify student voices across the school’s divisions and departments.

"Each year, the program’s tone and themes will naturally change, and inevitably reflect our students’ perspectives about our cultural landscape. In this production, the audience saw a significant focus on women's issues, which reflects a powerful currency in the zeitgeist and bolsters the significance of Women’s History Month in March," said Scott Feldsher, Theatre Department Chair. 

Performers captivated the audiences with their courage, vulnerability, and immense talent, leaving attendees deeply moved. Among the thought-provoking pieces showcased were several highlighting feminism-related themes, including "Say it Enough," "Invisible or on Display," and "Women Can’t Win.” These pieces not only resonated deeply with the audience, but also shined a light on the ongoing struggle for gender equity.

“Today, more than ever, we all need to feel safe and empowered in sharing our stories, while learning to listen from the heart, and with compassion,” said Patricia Jackson, Director of Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Life. She added, “This dynamic production offers our Upper School students the opportunity to explore and share how their experiences of culture - whether familial, communal, or global - speak to the core issues we’re facing today.” 

In the post-show Q&A sessions, students openly acknowledged overcoming fears, expressed pride in themselves and their fellow cast members, and recognized the unique opportunity they had been given to share their stories on stage.