Faith Carrion: Takin’ Up Space
By Berto Fernández
San Diego based artist Faith Carrion will be presenting their solo cabaret show Takin’ Up Space on Thursday, August 8th, 2024, at 7PM at The Clark Cabaret & Bar (on the first floor of the Diversionary Theatre building) for a night filled with music, laughter, and good vibes.
Faith has been taking the San Diego Theatre scene by storm and has recently been seen in Diversionary’s acclaimed GoGo’s jukebox musical Head Over Heels, and the World Premiere musical TL;DR Dyke Remix, as well as Backyard Renaissance’s compelling production of August: Osage County.
“This show started as an on-going conversation with Kian Kline-Clinton about cabarets and what mine could potentially look like. The title was actually inspired by a beautiful compliment Kian paid me once saying “I inspire people to take up space.” And that is something that means so much to me. Diversionary is a theater that has allowed me to be my full self on stage so there was only once choice for location. My beautiful friend and peer, Sasha Weiss, has helped it come to life with a directorial presence that is supportive and fun. My vocal coach, Korrie Yamaoka, is playing the cabaret and has helped shape this story as well!”, expressed Faith when asked about how the show came to life.
Faith also mentions that they would love for the audience to leave feeling empowered, connected, and to have a “damn good time”. The show is an informal and intimate musical cabaret that follows their return to theater, who they are as an artist, and their personal identities. The show includes a drinking game, a Q&A section, and general conversation about what it means to take up space. “I hope we all get to share some laughs, maybe some tears (lol – I am a cancer, I am going to cry) and most importantly a motivation to break out of any boxes we find ourselves in.”, Carrion added.
They also spilled some exclusive tea with The Word SD on some of the set list, which will feature a version of “Get Happy/Happy Days are Here Again”, dedicated to their mother, some Little Shop of Horrors, and an original song called “Wisdom Calls” from musical director Korrie Yamaoka’s new song cycle White Space.
“Being queer is a big part of my identity, and thus who I am as an artist. I have been lucky enough to play different gender expressions and out queer characters here in San Diego. I am constantly inspired by my queer peers here and have invited some incredible queer performers to sing with me; Kay McNellen, Sophia Araujo-Johnson, and Steph Lehane. And of course, the fact that the show is at Diversionary, one of the oldest queer theaters in the country.”, said Faith.
The one night only special event is free of charge and seating is on a first come first served basis, so arrive early to grab a cocktail and a good seat.
“This show is for every artist who needs to be reminded that we are all beautiful, important, and deserve a place in the spotlight.”, concluded Faith.