The latest episode of WCHE 95.3 FM's "Breaking the Silence: Chester County" podcast uses a jazz-standard metaphor to explore how abuse operates in patterns that feel familiar yet constantly shift. The guest: Lauren McComas, president and artistic director of SALT Performing Arts.
The Aug. 4 episode, titled "Same Song, Different Tune," centers on how survivors lose their sense of identity during abuse and what rebuilding looks like once they leave. Glenn Miller's "Moonlight Serenade" serves as a musical touchstone, connecting the recognizable swing ballad to the show's broader theme that abuse follows patterns a survivor may recognize but cannot easily escape.
The podcast appearance ties directly to SALT's upcoming production of Rodgers & Hammerstein's Carousel, running Sept. 4–20 at 1645 Art School Road in Chester Springs. The musical's storyline involves an abusive relationship, and SALT is partnering with the Domestic Violence Center of Chester County for the run. One dollar from each ticket goes to the center.
"I am most proud of SALT partnering with the Domestic Violence Center of Chester County for this production," McComas said in an Aug. 2 MyChesCo report announcing the show.
The partnership matters. Carousel includes mature subject matter depicting domestic violence, and the Domestic Violence Center provides direct support to Chester County survivors. The center can be reached at dvcccpa.org or 610-431-1430.
SALT's 10-year partnership with the Chester County Food Bank also continues through the production, with food donations collected at every performance and an additional dollar per ticket going to the food bank.
Coming up:
- Carousel opening night: Friday, Sept. 4, 7 p.m., 1645 Art School Road, Chester Springs (Dressy Attire and Champagne Opening Night). Performances continue Fridays at 7 p.m., Saturdays at 2 and 7 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. through Sept. 20. Tickets at saltpa.com/carousel.
- The Domestic Violence Center of Chester County: dvcccpa.org or 610-431-1430.
