June Conversation on Race explores theater and racial dialogue

Talbot Family Network’s June Conversations on Race program will explore how theater can reflect contemporary conversations about race, identity, and community dialogue through a partnership with local Mid-Shore theatre company, the Groove Factory.

The event will take place on Monday, June 22, 2026, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Talbot County Free Library’s Easton meeting room. A light dinner and refreshments will be provided.

The program, titled “Dialogue on Race: The Dramatic Irony of Racial Discussion,” will feature performers and creative team members connected to the recent production of “53% Of,” a contemporary play examining complicity, identity, and the tensions surrounding race and political discourse in America.

The evening will include a 40-minute live performance of excerpts from the production, presented in an intimate, in-the-round style designed to encourage audience connection and engagement.

Written by New York City-based playwright Steph Del Rosso, “53% Of” examines the social and political divisions that shape conversations about race, privilege, and accountability. The production recently concluded a run as part of the Groove Factory’s 2026 theatrical season..

Following the performance, participants will engage in a facilitated community discussion about the role theater can play in examining difficult social issues and creating opportunities for reflection and dialogue.

“Conversations on Race has always been about creating thoughtful, respectful spaces where people can engage honestly with challenging topics,” said Nancy Andrew, executive director of Talbot Family Network. “Theater invites audiences to experience new perspectives and emotions in a personal way.”

The Groove Factory is a Mid-Shore nonprofit performing arts organization dedicated to creating inclusive opportunities for artistic collaboration, performance, and community engagement.

“Theater has the power to hold a mirror up to society while also creating space for empathy and conversation,” said Cecile Davis, creative director for the Groove Factory. “This discussion allows us to move beyond performance and into community engagement, where art can help people examine assumptions, ask questions, and connect with one another in meaningful ways.”

 

“53% Of challenges audiences to examine the stories we tell ourselves about race, innocence, and responsibility,” E.T. Wilford, artistic director for the Groove Factory, and director of this production. “Our hope is that these conversations continue beyond the stage and encourage people to engage more openly and honestly with one another.”

The Conversations on Race series is held monthly from September through June, with each session designed to stand alone while contributing to an ongoing community dialogue about race, equity, and inclusion.

The event is free and open to the public. Advance registration is required at bit.ly/june26convo, with seating limited.

Talbot Family Network serves as Talbot County’s Local Management Board, established by the state of Maryland to improve coordination of services for children and families. The organization identifies local priorities, directs resources, and promotes collaboration among agencies and community partners. More information is available at https://healthytalbot.org/about/talbot-family-network/.