Dangerous Women sets stage for 10th anniversary

LEAVENWORTH — Dangerous Women, a diverse collective of local artists, educators and performers, will debut their next production, “Common Ground,” at Icicle Creek Center for the Arts (ICCA) on May 16 and 17.

Dangerous Women first took the stage in 2016 with “In Celebration of Dangerous Women,” showcasing the stories of women from all walks of life and points in history. Since then, the collective has explored the stories of female characters in art and theater with “Spellbound,” the women’s fight to vote with “Victorious,” and the pioneer and Indigenous fore-mothers of the region with “Unsettled.” To celebrate its 10th anniversary, Dangerous Women is pursuing what it calls its “most ambitious production to date.”

“The scope of arts and history present in “Common Ground” is groundbreaking for us,” said Director Rhona Baron.

“Common Ground” will explore historic women in science, the wonder of the natural world, and the diverse belief systems “that fuel our choices on Earth.” Women like Marie Curie and Rachel Carson will rub shoulders with dancing Monarch butterflies and Indigenous creation stories, said Baron. Driven by original art forms, the production aims to open dialogue while enlightening and entertaining audiences.

“Interactions between groups of people can be conflicted and complicated. But even in times of political and climate stressors, one thing is certain; we must find ways to share this planet. Dangerous Women is diving into that!” said Baron.

“Common Ground” will open with two shows — scheduled at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. — on May 16 at ICCA’s Snowy Owl Theater. Another matinee is scheduled for 2 p.m. on May 17. Each show will be followed by an audience “Talk Back” session, where ticket holders will have the opportunity to participate and comment.

Tickets for “Common Ground” go live on icicle.org on Feb. 1. Those interested in learning more about Dangerous Women can speak to members in person at Leavenworth’s next Community Engagement Night on Feb. 3. The community event is from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Leavenworth Festhalle.