‘She Spoke’ event highlights breakthroughs of Central Florida women

An arts event aims to connect women with each other and the community at large through the expression of dance, music and poetry.

The third episode of “She Spoke” will gather people to hear stories of breakthroughs this Saturday at Three Masks , an African shop and gallery in Orlando. The gathering is hosted by LaQwonna “Lady Q” Glaster, a Central Florida visual artist and poet.

“It’s about breakthrough; it’s about women who are dealing with issues and hurt and pain,” she said. “We’re using arts to communicate people’s stories and particularly women telling their stories through the creative arts — whether it’s dance, poetry, music, monologues or thought-provoking conversations.”

The event tends to allow women space to connect with one another but also allows men “an opportunity to see what women are going through,” Glaster said.

“She Spoke” will feature three performers with storytelling through dance, a singer and poet and Glaster sharing her poetry while playing a role leading the group. The end of the event includes time for audience participation and direct connection.

“I’m the featured voice at the end who, where I’m gonna tell my life story of the different breakthroughs I’ve experienced to get to that pivotal breakthrough,” Glaster said. “We’re not going to always impact the same people the same way, but the idea is to impact everyone in the room in some form or fashion.”

The event aims to highlight the common thread shared by women and the array of unique experiences.

“Every woman’s voice is different, and how they speak is different,” Glaster said. “This has allowed us to connect with the women in the community that they may grow and be better or even, you know, come out of their own hurt in their pain.”

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If you go

“She Spoke” is from 5-8 p.m. Aug. 24, with doors at 4:30 p.m. at 1023 W. Colonial Drive in Orlando. Tickets are $15 at the door. Appetizers and refreshments will be served. More information: facebook.com