Humor. Heartbreak. Rebellion.
What happens when we stop pretending motherhood is supposed to look a certain way?
For North Fork Valley artist Rose Costello, that question became a show.
On Saturday, November 7 at 7 PM, our Alan Espinoza Solo Performance Series continues at The Learning Council in Paonia with A Motherhood Experience, written and performed by Rose. Through storytelling, music, and movement, she explores the expectations placed on mothers, the upheaval of becoming a parent, and the possibilities of finding herself again.
Free childcare will be provided onsite the evening of the presentation.
The piece began with the shock of new motherhood and Rose’s growing conviction that the difficulties she faced weren’t hers to solve alone.
“I wanted someone to say that what was being expected of mothers was impossible, physically and mentally - instead of feeling like my suffering was a personal problem to solve.”
Motherhood changed her relationship to time and, at first, made creating difficult.
“I am not a life-long singer, and I work at being able to carry a tune, but that is also a great parallel to motherhood: remembering it's not supposed to be perfect, it's not something I've done before or had a lot of practice at, and showing myself in that state of imperfection is what feels the realest and potentially connects to the audience the most.”
She’s taking that leap with Gabrielle Louise and Rebecca Ascarrunz as the “Mother’s Little Helpers,” alongside musicians Justin Njissan, Jaime Payne, and David Alderdice. Their experience is helping Rose realize ideas she couldn’t bring to life alone.
“It is thrilling to see what would normally feel like an impossible idea become possible, based on collaborating with these incredible artists.”
The show has been in development for more than a year, giving Rose time to dream and play. Offering that space - and support - is central to Juniper Circle Productions' mission.
“Working with Juniper has been an awesome experience - it feels like I can show up and say ‘This is the biggest version of this dream, I’d love to make it happen this way’ - and the response is always ‘We love it. How can we help?’”
Although motherhood is its starting point, Rose hopes the show reaches people whether or not they have children. She wants audiences to leave with permission to try something of their own.
“I hope people walk away feeling that if there is something inside of them that they have been wanting to get out, whether that is a piece of art, music, dance, poetry, or a new way of walking through the world, that they can create it and it doesn’t have to be perfect.”
Written and Performed by Rose Costello
Presented by Juniper Circle Productions and The Learning Council
Saturday, November 7 | 7 PM
The Hearth | 138 Grand Avenue, Paonia, CO
Suggested Donation: $20
A portion of ticket sales benefit DC Cares Scholarship Fund
A Show for Adults
Sponsored by The Colorado Health Foundation
