A reminder that access to art is a privilege

Last week I did something a little different and traded my seat in a live theatre for one in the other type, by attending the Sundance Film Festival. During the time I was there, I saw short films, premieres, and legacy showings — all of which entertained and moved me to some degree. But for my last night at the festival, there was something more impactful in store for me, something that would hit home as a theatre artist and make me think of my own art community at home. I went to a screening of The Friend’s House is Here; written and directed by Maryam Ataei and Hossein Keshavarz, the film won the US Dramatic Special Jury Award for Ensemble Cast.

I don’t know what I was expecting going in, but I didn’t think I’d leave the theatre nearly speechless, ruminating in thoughts about the art and performance in my own life. Without spoiling too much (because I highly recommend you all see this movie) it follows two best friends in Tehran, one of whom writes and acts in illegal underground theatre. And if the film itself wasn’t a powerful enough reminder of the freedom of art and expression in our country, the Q&A with the filmmakers truly cemented my gratitude for our liberties, particularly in the creation of art. They spoke of how creating the film was its own act of defiance: shot entirely in secret and smuggled out of Iran just in time for the festival.

I left the festival with a renewed fervor to take advantage of the possibilities open to me. Going to the theatre, ballet, opera, or symphony doesn’t take subterfuge. Artists don’t have to hide or worry about being arrested. We can so easily enter a performance space as an audience member or performer. The only thing holding us back is ourselves. Freedom of art and speech aren’t guaranteed. With this in mind, I intend to enjoy the privileges we have now and I encourage you to do the same. — Ciara

On the Stage

Bicket Conducts All-Mozart

Classical | San Francisco Symphony
Now – February 7 | Tickets

Conductor Harry Bicket returns with an all-Mozart program ranging from world-renowned warhorses to lesser-known — but no less deserving — selections.

View the Program

More Events

• How Shakespeare Saved My Life | Berkeley Rep | Now – March 1 | View Program
  • Closed Captioned: every matinee through February 26
• M. Butterfly | San Francisco Playhouse | Now – March 14
• Bruce Liu | Cal Performances | February 10 | View Print Program
• Balanchine | San Francisco Ballet | February 10 – 15

Next Line

• Brrrrrrrr (drumroll please): San Francisco Opera has announced their 2026/27 season. With six powerful, emotional, and inventive mainstage productions, next season is sure to impress.
• American Conservatory Theater has announced the cast and creative team of ||: Girls :||: Chance :||: Music :|| — a world premiere play with, you guessed it, music.