Oppression, according to Brazilian theater director and political activist Augusto Boal, happens when one person is dominated by the monologue of another and has no opportunities to reply, dialogue, or interfere in the change of an event.

Photo credit: Niko TaverniseDirector - Darren AronofskyWriters - Mark Heyman, Andres Heinz & John McLaughlinChoreographer - Benjamin MillepiedMost mainstream dance films are part of the romantic dramedy genre, but "Black Swan" is anything but typic...

Increased partnerships between the commercial and academic worlds could strengthen the local arts sector, and contribute to the development of an arts workforce that is creative, innovative, and adaptable.

"I wrote to artists and non-artists to ask the question: why should our government support the arts?"

"The greatness of a people is eventually judged by what they contribute to the arts and culture of their times."

"Simply put, arts and culture are the engines that drive business. Without the arts, businesses cannot thrive, neighborhoods decline and our quality of life is greatly diminished."

"Public support for the arts is important because governments should engage in activities that improve the quality of life in their communities, particularly by supporting things that the private market might not otherwise provide."

Should critics watch dances more than one time? One critic reflects on lessons from attending a recent rehearsal.

Patricia Spears Jones writes about D.C.'s recent 2010 Split This Rock poetry festival. Photos by Jill Brazel.

Curator Blair Murphy writes about the ways we work: Talk to ten different visual artists in the DC area and you're likely to hear about ten different working situations, from former auto body shops to corners of studio apartments.