From TOLEDO OPERA
Toledo Opera will host “Voices of Valor: a Post-‘South Pacific’ Town Hall” on Tuesday, Feb. 25, at 6 p.m. at The Jefferson Center on 14th St. (Old Post Office). This town hall will celebrate service, community, and civic engagement. This event is free and open to the public.
This event will feature a panel of local veterans sharing their stories of service and insights on the role of community in civic practice. Included on the panel will be Teresa Fedor, member of the Ohio State Board of Education; Master Sergeant Michael White, 180th Fighter Wing of the Ohio Air National Guard; David Oravecz, Executive Director of Lucas County Veterans Services; Jurry Taalib Deen, Human Resources Recruiter Army National Guard; Lisa Sobecki, Lucas County Commisioner; and Aby the Newfoundland therapy dog. The panel will be moderated by local news anchor Dan Cummings. This event is sponsored in part by Ohio Humanities and is presented in partnership with Flag City Honor Flight.
“As we present Voices of Valor, it is essential that we include our veterans in the conversation,” shared Toledo Opera general director James M. Norman. “Their stories, sacrifices, and perspectives are at the heart of this production, and by amplifying their voices, we honor their service in a meaningful way. The arts have the power to bridge divides, foster understanding, and create a space for healing, and we are proud to provide that platform through this town hall.”
“With South Pacific, we wanted to go beyond the stage and explore the real experiences of veterans—not just because of the musical’s themes, but because their perspectives on service, sacrifice, and civic responsibility are so important right now,” shared Toledo Opera development officer Leah Whitaker. As a community institution, Toledo Opera has a responsibility to do more than just perform—we’re here to engage, connect, and contribute to the well-being of the people who call Toledo home. Events like Voices of Valor are part of that mission, using storytelling and conversation to bring people together and spark meaningful dialogue.”
