EDITOR’S NOTE {on the job}
THE DRESS REHEARSAL
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ot long before this issue went to press, a few of us from the Frontdoors team — publisher Andrea Evans, contributor Carey Peña and myself — had the amazing opportunity to sit in on a dress rehearsal for “Americano!,” Phoenix Theatre Company’s groundbreaking new musical about Arizona DREAMer Tony Valdovinos, who went to enlist in the Marine Corps on his 18th birthday, only to discover that he was undocumented. Even though we were watching what was just the second full run-through at the time, we knew we were seeing something special. The show was created here in Phoenix and its authentic depiction of our community — particularly the DREAMers whose story is often untold — was powerful and meaningful. Here at Frontdoors, we take seriously the responsibility of representing our community by lifting up the good work of our neighbors. That’s particularly true this month, which aims the spotlight on long-serving nonprofit and community organizations that are celebrating milestone years. Arizona is considered a “young” state, but we have a rich history to laud. So, don’t miss Judy Pearson’s lovely piece about the Wrigley Mansion’s second act. Learn how the Black Theatre Troupe has evolved from being one woman’s dream to becoming an essential part of Phoenix’s cultural fabric. And be sure to read Tom Evans’ story about the Sandra Day O’Connor Institute and its vital mission to restore civic duty and civil conversation.
If you’re a fan of fashion, be sure to check out the beautiful period clothing worn by the Arizona Questers, an organization that is honoring another landmark anniversary — the passage of the 19th amendment. Women’s suffrage is celebrating its centennial this year, and the Questers have big plans to mark the occasion. It’s a fitting twist that the Questers are spending 2020 highlighting the importance of winning the vote. Just as it is apt that when Tony Valdovinos couldn’t enlist, he began to fight another war — empowering others to vote in order to play a role in decisions that affect them. In this election year, I hope you will be energized and engaged by Arizonans like these and exercise your right to vote as well. Whether you believe 2020 is the most consequential election of our lifetime or just another year, Arizonans like Frances Willard Munds, Sandra Day O’Connor and Tony Valdovinos are calling on all of us to participate. Because unlike my recent night at the theater, this isn’t a dress rehearsal.
Karen Werner EDITOR
@kwerner409
