In celebration of International Women’s Day, Soroptimist International River Valley and the Grants Pass High School Theatre Department are coming together to host a special event aimed at honoring the contributions of women in the local community. This unique event will take place on Saturday, March 8th, at the Grants Pass Performing Arts Center (PAC), located at 313 NE Olive St. The event is designed to highlight the achievements of women changemakers in the valley, coinciding with the theatre department’s performance of the Spring Musical, The Unsinkable Molly Brown.
The focus of the event is to pay tribute to the legacy of Molly Brown, a renowned philanthropist, entrepreneur, and advocate for her community. Often remembered for her resilience and determination, Brown became known as the “unsinkable” woman after surviving the Titanic disaster. Her story is one of empowerment and social impact, and the event will seek to spotlight local women who have made similar strides in their own communities.
The afternoon will kick off with a free Resource Fair in the lobby of the PAC from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. The fair will feature a range of women-owned and women-led businesses, as well as programs and resources dedicated to supporting women and girls in the Grants Pass area. This event is not a traditional vendor fair, but rather a space to learn about and connect with local businesses and initiatives that empower women.
From 5:30 to 6:15 p.m., the event will transition into a discussion panel moderated by Julia Cuppy. The panel will bring together local women changemakers who have had a significant impact on the community. These women will share their experiences and insights on the challenges and rewards of being a female leader in various sectors, from business to advocacy. The discussion aims to inspire and encourage others to make positive changes in their own communities.
After the panel, attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy a performance of The Unsinkable Molly Brown from 7:00 to 9:30 p.m. The performance, which is a ticketed event, will bring the incredible story of Molly Brown to life on stage, adding an artistic touch to the day’s celebrations of women’s empowerment and resilience.
The event is free and open to the public, making it accessible to all who wish to attend. However, those interested in hosting a booth at the Resource Fair must meet specific criteria: they must be a women-owned, women-led, or women-founded business or organization in the Grants Pass area. This event is an opportunity for these businesses to showcase the work they do, offering information, resources, and support to others in the community. Those interested in hosting a booth or joining the panel can apply through the event’s online form.
Organizers hope this event will not only honor women changemakers but also create lasting connections and provide valuable resources for women and girls in the region. By celebrating the legacy of Molly Brown and other women who continue to shape our world, the International Women’s Day Fair is sure to inspire future generations of female leaders.
For more information or to get involved, please contact Tianna Eddy at 541-244-0033 or via email at gphstheatre@gmail.com.