Community Voices Take Center Stage at This Year’s “That’s What She Said” Performance
- ClarkLindsey
- Jul 10, 2014
- 2 min read
A storytelling event featuring women from across the Champaign‑Urbana area is returning to the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts this July. The program blends personal narratives, music, comedy, and reflection, creating a space where women of all ages and backgrounds can share their lived experiences. Several residents from ClarkLindsey will attend as honored guests, highlighting the event’s intergenerational reach.
What Happened
“That’s What She Said,” a performance series focused on women’s stories, is entering its second year at the Krannert Center. The event brings together a mix of professional performers and local participants who use spoken word, music, humor, and movement to explore themes ranging from health and family to identity, resilience, and everyday life.
The program is shaped by a creative team that encourages authenticity over polish. Participants meet in informal settings to workshop their stories, support one another, and refine their performances. The goal is not to showcase professional speakers but to elevate real voices—whether from working parents, caregivers, artists, or community members who have never stepped on a stage before.
This year’s lineup includes tributes, personal reflections, and creative pieces. One segment will honor Dr. Lilian Katz, a respected figure in early childhood education at the University of Illinois. A group of women from ClarkLindsey will attend the celebration, traveling together to recognize her contributions.
The evening also features guest artists, comedy from The Second City Training Center, and a post‑show gathering where attendees can meet performers, ask questions, and enjoy additional music and conversation.
Why This Matters
Events like “That’s What She Said” highlight the importance of storytelling as a way to build understanding across generations and life experiences. By creating a platform where women can speak openly about challenges, humor, loss, joy, and growth, the program strengthens community connection and encourages shared reflection.
For ClarkLindsey, the event aligns with ongoing efforts to support meaningful engagement for older adults. Participation in local cultural events—whether as audience members, honorees, or storytellers—helps reinforce the idea that every stage of life brings valuable perspectives worth hearing.
The program also reflects a broader cultural trend: communities are increasingly recognizing the power of personal narratives to foster empathy, reduce isolation, and celebrate diverse experiences.
Key Details at a Glance
Event: “That’s What She Said”
Date & Time: July 19 at 7 p.m.
Location: Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, Urbana, Illinois
Format: Storytelling, music, comedy, and personal reflections
Participants: Professional performers and local women from the Champaign‑Urbana area
ClarkLindsey Connection: A group of residents will attend to honor Dr. Lilian Katz
Post‑Show Option: A ticketed gathering with performers, music, and conversation
Broader Context
Storytelling events have grown in popularity nationwide, reflecting a desire for genuine connection in an increasingly digital world. Programs like “That’s What She Said” mirror the success of public radio storytelling, community theater, and narrative‑driven podcasts by offering a space where people can share experiences that might otherwise go unheard.
In Champaign‑Urbana, the event contributes to a vibrant arts ecosystem supported by organizations like the Krannert Center, local nonprofits, and community partners. Its intergenerational participation—including involvement from ClarkLindsey residents—demonstrates how the arts can bring people together across age, background, and life experience.
Source Attribution: This post is based on publicly reported information originally covered by The News‑Gazette
