The Arts as Activism—Shaping Culture, Strengthening Democracy with Jon Lawrence Rivera

Art is more than entertainment—it’s a powerful force for cultural change and democratic strength. Throughout history, artists have used their work to challenge injustice, amplify diverse voices, and inspire movements for social change. In today’s socio-political climate, the arts—especially live theater—remain a vital space for activism and transformation.

In this episode of The Counter, Penny Ronning and Jon Lawrence Rivera explore how theater and the arts respond to pressing social issues, the importance of authentic representation on stage, and the responsibility of arts institutions to uphold diversity and inclusion. They discuss how artists can push boundaries, challenge oppressive narratives, and contribute to a more just and inclusive society.

🎭 Join us for a compelling conversation on the power of the arts to shape culture, resist oppression, and strengthen democracy. 🎧 Tune in now!

To learn more about Playwrights’ Arena, please visit their website at playwrightsarena.org

To learn more about The Counter, please visit our website at thecounterpac.com

Host: Penny Ronning
Writer: Penny Ronning
Producers: Penny Ronning, Ty Lowe
Editor: Ty Lowe
Sound Designer/Engineer: Ty Lowe
Music: Ty Lowe, Konstantin Klimov

Intro Vocals:  Roy Pack
Graphic Design:  Penny Ronning, Ty Lowe
Website: Ty Lowe

Social Media:  Emma Trunkle

 

 

Jon Lawrence Rivera Bio

 

Jon Lawrence Rivera, Artistic Director, Playwrights’ Arena is the recipient of the first Career Achievement Award from Stage Raw (2015) and its Queen of Angels Award (2024). Most recently, Rivera directed the following critically acclaimed world premieres for Playwrights’ Arena: MIX-MIX by Boni B. Alvarez, THREE by Nick Salamone, A HIT DOG WILL HOLLER by Inda Craig-Galván, SOUTHERNMOST by Mary Lyon Kamitaki, BABY EYES by Donald Jolly, LITTLE WOMEN by Velina Hasu Houston, @THESPEEDOFJAKE by Jennifer Maisel, and THE ANATOMY OF GAZELLAS by Janine Salinas Schoenberg. Other recent works include KIM’S CONVENIENCE by Ins Choi, BINGO HALL by Dillon Chitto, FAIRLY TRACEABLE by Mary Kathryn Nagle, CRIERS FOR HIRE by Giovanni Ortega, STAND-OFF AT HWY #37 by Vicky Ramirez, FLIPZOIDS by Ralph B. Peña (also in Manila). Rivera is the recipient of a NY Fringe Festival Award, an LA Weekly Award, and five-time Ovation Award nominations.

 

The Counter is a registered non-connected political action committee and is not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee.