Expressing Motherhood, the nationally recognized storytelling stage show celebrating the real, raw, and resonant experiences of motherhood, comes to Glendale for two evenings — 5 p.m. on Jan. 31 and Feb. 1 — at the Sparr Heights Community Center.
PHOTOS COURTESY EXPRESSING MOTHERHOOD
Now in its 18th year, Expressing Motherhood has become a beloved platform for sharing personal stories through monologues, music and poetry. Each piece drawn from real life and performed live. Every show is different, shaped by the voices of the performers and the community in which it’s staged.
“Our shows this winter include moms at all stages of parenting — and one son,” says creator and director Lindsay Kavet. “It was important that this show felt uplifting as times are deeply challenging. Coming together to listen to one another deepens our sense of community.”
Rooted in community — and close to home for L.A. Parent
This Glendale production holds special meaning for L.A. Parent. Our digital editor, Nina Harada, is among the performers taking the stage, sharing her own story as part of the cast. In addition, Editor-in-Chief Cassandra Lane performed in Expressing Motherhood in 2018, an experience she describes as life-changing, particularly in helping her uncover a deeper confidence and clarity in public speaking and storytelling.
That personal connection underscores what makes Expressing Motherhood impactful: its ability to create brave space for honesty, vulnerability and connection — onstage and off.
Stories that reflect the realities of parenthood
Created by Kavet, Expressing Motherhood explores the many dimensions of modern parenting, including fertility journeys, identity shifts, partnership and marriage, loss, joy, resilience and love. The show has toured nationally and was adapted into a “Parenting in the Pandemic” series during COVID, reaching families during an especially isolating time.
Each production blends local voices with national performers. “We’ve had people fly in to be part of our shows before,” Kavet says. “But highlighting voices from the surrounding community makes each evening especially meaningful.”
The impact has been widely recognized. Journalist and advocate Maria Shriver has called the show “the modern village for moms.”
Giving back while coming together
More than an evening of theater, the Glendale performances will also support local families in need. Attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items, which will be donated to the local nonprofit Hang Out Do Good.
Whether you’re a parent, caregiver or simply someone who appreciates authentic storytelling, Expressing Motherhood offers an evening that reminds us we’re never alone.
Tickets are available online.
WHAT: Expressing Motherhood SHOW
WHERE: Sparr Heights Community Center, Glendale
WHEN: 5 p.m., Jan. 31 & Feb. 1
