The Penelope Project Weaves Together Women Artists, Music and Film to Tell Stories of Women, by Women

Inspired by the character Penelope from Homer’s The Odyssey, the Penelope Project is a series of films which illuminate the contributions of women to the arts today. The series begins with Cecilia Livingston’s “Penelope” in 2023.

I’m thrilled to share with you some of the thoughts and ideas of the creators of the Penelope Project in a series of behind the scenes interviews with the artists. Our first artist interview is with Mila Henry, pianist and artistic director of The American Opera Project. Mila is a phenomenal performer, artist and collaborator who I have had the privilege of working alongside on a number of projects. Thank you Mila for your candid responses and valuable insights.

Do you personally relate to the character of Penelope or her story? How so?

Penelope is known for “waiting”. I think it’s so easy to wait–to wait for something to happen, for a certain day or moment when you think you’ll reach a goal or an epiphany, simply because you put in the time. I relate to that misconception, of thinking that “one day, X will happen”. Sometimes, it does…but sometimes, you have to weave your own story.

Where are you drawing inspiration from for your role in the project?

The music. Cecilia Livingston’s use of musical colors, textures, and even silence, allows the performers to embody a new story for Penelope at every performance. I also love thinking of it as a timeless torch song, "for lover and loved”.

What do you want audiences to experience or feel when they interact with the film of Penelope?

Themes of universality and a common thread. I want them to see themselves in Penelope, and to realize that her myth can be applied to any Time, and any Person. I want the Stillness to inspire reflection.

Have you faced challenges as an artist due to your gender?

Well, interestingly–if this relates–it wasn’t until I played alongside a few women conductors that I started to think about stepping onto the podium, in addition to the collaborative work (and leading) I was doing behind the piano. I’ll add that others saw my leadership before I did, and “feeling” like a leader is something I grapple with regularly, even as I’ve managed to maintain a successful career. I think there is a sense of inner doubt that is unique to women, passed through generations of repression.

Do you think women bring something different to the arts as opposed to their male counterparts?

I think that women have a natural instinct towards welcoming others–to communing together, and to listening and learning as well as leading. Though subtle, it can make all the difference in terms of holding space, whether in a rehearsal room or on a stage.

What’s critical for women in the arts today?

Representation and diversity. Seeing more women of all backgrounds—ethnic, cultural, artistic—in the field, and in leadership roles, thereby encouraging others to emulate them. It’s so important to see yourself in the community where you want to thrive. And, it’s critical for women to speak up in whatever role they have, thereby offering new ideas and new perspectives.

Thank you Mila! You can learn more and Help the Project by making a donation on the GoFundMe page today.