Performance Initiative group encourages VCU students, surrounding community to ENGAGE in 2004 elections

By Serwa Lee
University News Services

The Performance Initiative, an arts-based community action organization, recently introduced ENGAGE at Virginia Commonwealth University to persuade more people to vote in the 2004 election.

The bipartisan project, which combined theatrical performances and local bands over three days in September, gave VCU students and community members the opportunity to register to vote; to explore different issues regarding American politics; to meet with different political parties; and to learn more about advocacy groups both on campus and in the community.

Organizers say they are hopeful that ENGAGE’s message will continue to influence participants.

"ENGAGE didn’t end when the lights went down on the final scene of the performance," said Randy Strawderman, director of ENGAGE. "The final scene in The Performance Initiative's 'ENGAGE' is election day in Richmond, when more voters than ever exercise their freedom of speech, and then come the sequels— future elections, both local and national."

"Engage was born out of fear— fear that there were not enough of us working and fighting for the things we believe in," said Leah Lamb, founder of The Performance Initiative and producer of ENGAGE. "I wanted to find the people who were willing to walk away from the doubt and fear that seemed to be driving people away from participating in political life.”

TPI is an organization dedicated to developing positive social change by facilitating collaboration between social action workers, artists and community members to create a model for social change.

For more information on ENGAGE or The Performance Initiative, contact Leah Lamb at lslamb@vcu.edu.