Charleston Symphony Orchestra Confronts Racial Hostility During Performance of Sanctuary Road

Charleston Symphony Orchestra Faces Unsettling Incident Amid Celebrated Performance

Charleston, a city known for its rich history and vibrant arts scene, recently found itself in the spotlight for both its culture and an unfortunate reminder of the challenges still faced in society today. The Charleston Symphony Orchestra kicked off a much-anticipated performance of Sanctuary Road, an opera that sheds light on the journey of fugitive slaves traveling through the Underground Railroad.

On what was supposed to be a joyful evening, emotions ran high as the talented cast of African American opera singers wrapped up their first rehearsal. Just a block away from the historic Gaillard Center—where they would perform in just two nights—they gathered at Big Gun Burger Shop & Bar to bond over dinner and drinks. These artists were not only excited about their debut in Charleston but were also fueled by the story of resilience and bravery that the opera represents. However, the night took a dark turn.

As several soloists made their way back to their hotel, they were met with a shocking encounter. A truck drove by, and a young man leaned out of the window, shouting a racial slur before speeding off into the night. Joshua Blue, one of the standout soloists, shared this alarming experience via email, bringing to light the ugliness that can lurk in the shadows even amidst cultural celebrations.

A Disturbing Reaction

The incident reverberated through the community, causing shock and embarrassment among many who stood in support of the performers. Tonya Matthews, the CEO of the International African American Museum, addressed the audience about it during intermission on opening night, expressing solidarity with the artists. Similarly, Michael Smith, CEO of the symphony, decried the incident as “appalling” and offered the soloists the option to withdraw from their performance. But with unwavering determination, the performers chose to go ahead, embodying the spirit of the art they were sharing with the audience.

And the audience responded. Time and again, they expressed their approval with warm, standing ovations at each performance, demonstrating their support for the cast not just as artists, but as individuals standing against hate.

The Power of Art

Art can serve as both a refuge and a platform for change, and in this instance, it operated both ways. While some individuals still turn their backs on progress, there were many who rallied around the performers, creating a memorable atmosphere during the symphony’s deeply moving program.

The symphony’s presentation boasted an all-American lineup, featuring compositions from renowned figures like Aaron Copland and Samuel Barber, complemented by the powerful storytelling woven throughout Sanctuary Road. This opera, born from the writings of William Still, a prominent African American abolitionist, was crafted into a compelling narrative by Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Paul Moravec and librettist Mark Campbell—a true testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

A Strong Message

While the incident that night was a stark reminder of the deep-rooted issues we still grapple with, it also served to amplify the voices of those who stand against such hate. Blue, who has a remarkable career as a tenor, underscored the significance of keeping the arts alive, asserting that no amount of negativity can suppress the power of song. “You can hate me with every fiber of your being, but you can never stop me from singing,” he boldly declared.

The resilience exhibited by the artists is a beacon of hope—a reminder that, even in difficult times, voices of strength and unity can prevail. This latest chapter in Charleston’s story begs us to reflect on the continuing journey toward understanding, acceptance, and love within our communities.

As Charleston continues to grapple with its past while celebrating its present, it is clear that stories like those told in Sanctuary Road are not just performances but also necessary conversations that resonate deeply with all of us.