Basically, he argues that humans overall are better off now that at any point in history. With that newfound affluence, our species also has great power to influence change. Cynicism, he argues, simply puts the brakes on positive change. So despite all the bad stuff, we need to remind ourselves of the good and adopt an optimistic attitude, which will enable us and, hopefully inspire others, to make positive change.

I like that Josh has also identified cynicism as a barrier to doing more, better.

To your question of preaching to the converted . . . one thing I’ve noticed over the course of these interviews, is that younger members of the community are calling for and executing a new vision for the theatre community in this city. This is not to diminish the achievements of those who came before us, it’s to say that we’re here with new ideas and new challenges, and we need to change the apparatus to make it work for us.

I think in striving for that change, we’re going to find new audiences, new participants, and new ideas.

Preaching to the converted . . . hell yes. In doing so we refine and clarify our message. And as our messages gets more persuasive, new people will come to listen and participate.