The Voices of Now program took place on May 19, 2024 at the Arena Stage. The production was written by the 6 performers in Teen Grief Ensemble. Enjoy these images and video of the performance, and read on to learn about their stories.
The Voices of Now program is a collaboration between the Wendt Center for Loss and Healing and Arena Stage. “See Through” is an original play created and written by the Wendt Center’s Voices of Now Teen Grief Ensemble. It was performed before a live audience during the 2024 Voices of Now festival and at the Grief Forum. This powerful piece showcases the talents, creativity, and courage of teens as they share their experiences of grief.
“How do we find our way through grief?”
“How do you decide who to open up to?”
We hope “See Through” will leave you feeling inspired, sparks dialogue about grief and moved by the power of youth voices. Your support of the Wendt Center makes this healing work possible. Thank you.
The following highlighted quotations are a few of the profound messages and questions put forth in “See Through.”
2024 Creators & Performers
Name & Grade
What do you want people to know about your grief?
Who are you dedicating your Voices of Now work/performance to?
Tivon (Ti), 16 years old
Ballou Senior High School
“It is just like energy – it cannot be destroyed, but it can adapt.”
In honor of Suga Mama; Grandpa Herb and Grandpa Tank
Samhari (Mhari), 15 years old
Home Schooled
“Grief is hard. It’s a really rough process. Sometimes you want to go through it by yourself – but in my opinion its best to talk to someone.”
In honor and memory of my dog, Jewel
Lily (Younsoo), 17 years old
Jackson-Reed High School
“Grief can go away for a moment but then come back without you even knowing it.”
In honor of childhood friend, Niko S.
Zahin Renee, 14 years old
Duke Ellington School of the Arts
“I keep a smile on my face even when I am going through pain.”
In honor and memory of grandmother, Wanda Renee Morgan
Jalen, 17 years old
Anacostia Senior High School
“You want to be able to tell the story – not be the story.”
In honor of my brother Brandon and in memory of my nephew, Legend.
Jacob, 14 years old
Friendship PCS Online
“Grief happens to everyone and this is my way of getting thru it.”
In memory and honor of my brother – Elijah