Portrait: Langston Hughes by Robert Shetterly
(SOUTH ORANGE, NJ) -- South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC), in proud partnership with Seton Hall University's One College, One Exhibition, invites the community to step into an evening of truth, art, and dialogue at the opening reception of Americans Who Tell the Truth—Robert Shetterly's renowned portrait series. The event takes place on Tuesday, October 7, from 6:00pm–8:00pm at The Herb + Milly Iris Gallery at SOPAC, marking an artistic moment of community reflection and connection.
The opening reception will include a preview of five powerful portraits, each honoring individuals who challenged injustice and stood courageously for democratic ideals, as well as a live thought-provoking panel discussion exploring how truth-telling, art, and activism shape our community today. The panel is moderated by Dr. Bryan Crable, Founding Dean of SHU’s College of Human Development, Culture, and Media.
The exhibition will run from October 7, 2025 – October 31, 2025.
The Exhibition: Fusing Portraiture and Activism | Americans Who Tell the Truth is more than a gallery showcase; it is a celebration of courage and conviction. Featuring five extraordinary portraits: Langston Hughes, Pete Seeger, John Lewis, César Chávez, and Sojourner Truth, the exhibition honors individuals who have stood boldly against injustice and shaped the course of democratic ideals. Through portraiture, Shetterly’s collection sparks vital conversation around democracy, education, citizenship, and the common good.
“I’m so excited to partner with Seton Hall University to bring this thought-provoking exhibit to the SOPAC audience,” said Linda Beard, SOPAC’s Director of Arts Education, “Art is so much more than just creating, it’s a way for people to express themselves and inspire change. When we share our stories and perspectives, we empower each other to stand up for justice and reflect the values that shape our community. I hope everyone who visits finds the courage to speak the truths that matter, even when it’s hard.”
Live Panel Discussion: Truth Tellers in Our Community | At the opening reception on October 7, guests are invited to attend a compelling live conversation. This panel discussion—moderated by Dr. Bryan Crable, Founding Dean of Seton Hall’s College of Human Development, Culture, and Media—brings together distinguished voices whose lives exemplify civic courage and creative expression:
* Rev. Dr. Terry L. Richardson, Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church of South Orange since 1997, is renowned for guiding his congregation through growth rooted in faith, justice, and civic engagement, bridging religion and public service.
* Nette Forné Thomas is an acclaimed visual artist, educator, and curator, dedicated to inspiring through art education and her leadership as President of Pen and Brush, a pioneering advocate for women in the arts. Her work centers on cultural identity and representation. She has taught art at both Weequahic High School and Arts High School where she ultimately became an administrator.
* John McEwen, Executive Director of the New Jersey Theatre Alliance, is recognized statewide for his leadership in arts access and inclusion, strengthening New Jersey’s theatre community and serving as a mentor advancing equity in the arts.
* Dr. Bryan Crable is a leading scholar in communication, rhetorical theory, and identity, and the inaugural Dean of Seton Hall’s College of Human Development, Culture, and Media. He has researched the power of language and culture to challenge systems of inequality.
“SOPAC is thrilled to host a panel that brings together such passionate leaders dedicated to truth-telling and creative expression,” said SOPAC’s Executive Director, Lana Rogachevskaya, “By connecting art, activism, and community, we help shine a light on the issues that matter most. This panel is a chance for us to celebrate the power of shared stories and ideas.”
Americans Who Tell the Truth promises to spark meaningful reflection and spirited conversation—exploring the modern-day impact of truth-telling, storytelling, and civic courage in the quest for a more compassionate and just society.
As SOPAC celebrates its 20th Anniversary season, this event underscores the center’s passion for championing creative voices, deepening community connections, and serving as a hub for cultural expression. SOPAC is honored to work in partnership with Seton Hall University, providing a platform for dialogue, discovery, and civic engagement.
The South Orange Performing Arts Center offers audiences exhilarating and diverse arts entertainment in its intimate venue, serving as the cultural heartbeat of the greater South Orange/Maplewood region and contributing to the economic and social vibrancy of its highly diverse community.
SOPAC is an accessible cultural destination that presents world-class artists in an intimate and welcoming environment. The Jennifer & Tony Leitner Performance Hall is a 439-seat mainstage theatre with superb acoustics, sight lines and seating. Audiences remark that performances in this space are like having their favorite artists right in their own living room. Artists acknowledge that the atmosphere encourages conversations with audiences. The Loft at SOPAC is a 2,185 square-foot multi-purpose space used for performances, rehearsals, classes, and special events.
The unique architecture of SOPAC’s building, which includes a stunning 3-story glass-enclosed atrium, is also home to the Herb + Milly Iris Gallery. Beyond the building, SOPAC co-produces local events such as South Orange Summer Nights and serves students and schools through its arts education residencies.
SOPAC is invested in arts education. SOPAC serves students and schools in our region through a School Performance Series, performing Arts Residencies, and an annual juried art exhibit entitled INSPIRED MINDS: Young Artist Exhibition. SOPAC also collaborates with the New Jersey State Council on the Arts each year to host the Region 5 Poetry Out Loud competitions. The Seton Hall University Arts Council presents a diverse range of events at SOPAC with seasoned professionals, students, and faculty.
Nearly twenty years in the making, SOPAC first opened its doors in 2006. South Orange Village Trustees, in partnership with Seton Hall University, envisioned SOPAC as the center of an ambitious redevelopment plan. Through collaborative leadership and community support, SOPAC has become a cultural centerpiece for the region, an economic driver for the community, and a catalyst for artistic opportunity.
