‘Flight’ Returns to the Stage, Confronting Domestic Violence Through Performance, Education, and Action

CRYSTAL and ANOKA, Minn. A powerful live production centered on the lived realities of domestic violence is returning to Twin Cities area stages this January, pairing artistic storytelling with education, dialogue, and direct connections to community resources.

Produced by The Art of Reconciliation Performing Arts Company, “Flight: an exploration of domestic violence through word, music, and movement” revisits the stage following its original 2023 run. The production draws from the true stories of four individuals affected by domestic violence, interweaving spoken word, original music, and movement to convey both the depth of despair and the resilience and hope that emerge along the path toward healing.

Organizers emphasize that the production is intended for mature audiences only. The performance includes descriptions and physical depictions of domestic violence, and content warnings are clearly communicated due to the potentially triggering nature of the material.

A performance rooted in purpose

The Art of Reconciliation is a Minnesota based registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to raising awareness of pressing social challenges. Its work is guided by a three pillar model known as Performance, Education, and Action.

Through performance, the company uses the arts to foster empathy and understanding by sharing stories that challenge audiences and invite reflection. Education is woven into each project, offering both creative teams and audiences opportunities to learn from professionals working directly in the highlighted area of need. Action follows through partnerships with local organizations, allowing the company to support community efforts with time, talent, and resources.

“Flight” exemplifies this model by combining theatrical storytelling with post show discussions, resource sharing, and collaborations with organizations addressing domestic violence prevention and survivor support.

Dates, venues, and ticketing

“Flight” will be presented at two locations in January:

• Elision Playhouse in Crystal: January 15 through 17 at 7 p.m., and January 18 at 2 p.m.
  Tickets follow a tiered pricing model designed to keep performances accessible, with options at $20 for Discount, $30 for Sustainer, and $40 for Donor.
• Zion Lutheran Church in Anoka: January 23 at 7 p.m.
  This performance is offered as a pay what you can event.

Community partners and post show engagement

A central partner for “Flight” is The Dwelling Place, a Christ centered ministry providing healing and hope to victims of domestic abuse through supportive services and safe, transitional housing for women and children. Staff from The Dwelling Place will facilitate optional post show discussions following performances at Elision Playhouse and will also lead the discussion after the Anoka performance.

The January 23 performance at Zion Lutheran Church is presented in partnership with the Anoka County Violence Prevention Roundtable, which focuses on promoting health, safety, and well being through evidence based violence prevention strategies. That evening will include a resource fair highlighting local organizations working in domestic violence prevention and survivor support. The Silent Witness Exhibit, a public memorial honoring victims of domestic violence, will be on display, and refreshments will be provided following the performance.

A broader legacy of partnership

“Flight” is part of a wider body of work by The Art of Reconciliation that consistently links artistic productions with mission driven partners. Past collaborations include partnerships with Missions Inc. Home Free Program, Minnesota Council of Churches Refugee Services, and Urban Ventures, among others, reflecting the organization’s ongoing commitment to addressing complex social issues through art and community engagement.

By returning “Flight” to the stage, The Art of Reconciliation continues to use live performance as a catalyst for awareness, conversation, and collective action, inviting audiences not only to witness difficult truths, but also to connect with the people and organizations working toward safety, healing, and long term change.

MinneapoliMedia