Today, I’m joined by award-winning artist, playwright, and librettist Catherine Filloux to discuss how she explores the intersection of social justice and theater in her work. In our conversation, Catherine expands on the stories that have captured her heart and informed her career, including the survivors of the Khmer Rouge regime in Cambodia and the Dirty War in Argentina. Where Elephants Weep is a rock opera that follows the love story of two Cambodian-Americans who return to their homeland. Catherine outlines the expansive research that she and composer Him Sophy did to bring this story to life and explains why she’s dedicated to exploring the generational impact of the Khmer Rouge regime. Because the play was banned after it was broadcast for the first time on Cambodian national television, Catherine and Him Sophy are updating and relaunching it next year. Catherine’s also working on a one-woman play about the extraordinary life of visual artist and activist Claudia Bernardi. Catherine gives an overview of what we can expect from How to Eat an Orange and why she was inspired to pursue this story. We also discuss the potency of storytelling in the theater, especially as we’ve been driven towards screens and experiencing art alone. Catherine leaves us with an inspiring message about her passion for honoring survivors' stories and highlights why it’s revolutionary to remember. Listen, rate, and review to Art Heals All Wounds on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Castbox, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered: ● Catherine’s early introduction to theater and what sparked her interest in playwriting ● An honest look at the United States’ complicity in international conflict ● Why Where Elephants Weep was banned in Cambodia ● The deep impact of the Khmer Rouge regime on Cambodian arts and tradition ● Using the theater as a setting to honor the victims and survivors of human rights violations Guest Info: ● Catherine's Website ● Catch Where Elephants Weep on Broadway on Demand through April 22, 2023 ● Stay updated about the premiere of How to Eat an Orange at La MaMa Follow Me: ● My LinkedIn ● Art Heals All Wounds Website ● Art Heals All Wounds Instagram ● Art Heals All Wounds Facebook ● Art Heals All Wounds Newsletter