(Editor’snote: This introduction is meant to be read in a deep, gravelly, authoritative movie trailer narrator voice.)
In a world riven by a seemingly endless pandemic, sclerotic politics, climate disaster, racial tensions andastonishingly expensive public toilets,the people of the San Francisco Bay Area were looking for escape. For laughs. For answers.
The depressing confines of their living rooms had nothing— only fading holiday decorations, unrecycledgift packaging and still-ripe memories from sheltering in place.
In 2023, they know they must venture out, understanding that only artists could pierce through the gloom.They must seekout the Roxie andthe Ashby Stage,Museum of the African DiasporaandThee Stork Club,Davies Symphony HallandRhythmix Cultural Works.
Will they find what they’re looking for?Perhaps in “Barbie,” the movie. InSZA. In immersive opera. In a delightful little play that reimagines the Greek god Dionysus as a butch lesbian.
They might not be able to explain how or why, but they know art nourishes. And they know they need it, especially after“Black Adam.”
11 movies to look forward to in 2023
10 most anticipated TV shows premiering in 2023
The biggest concerts and music festivals coming to the Bay Area in 2023
Women rule in premier Bay Area theater picks for 2023
A garland of musical events — chamber, orchestral, operatic and more — coming in 2023
New dance works abound in Bay Area in 2023
Bay Area visual arts scene stacked with new shows, anniversary celebrations for 2023
8 new books to look forward to in 2023
Bay Area arts leaders to watch in 2023
Thee Stork Club seeks to shine light on local rising stars in 2023
Pocket Opera’s new leader has ambitious plans for upcoming season
Sarita Ocón of Oakland is an actor with a mission — literally
Oakland choreographer’s confidence as an artist is stunning yet nascent