Philly Fringe 2022: Matthew Armstead presents Song Bridge

Armstead begins by walking the audience through a grounding and breathing exercise. This act of kindness and care sets the tone of the performance. Though the piece explores trauma, homophobia, and racism, Armstead shares their journey from a place of deep healing, joy, and wholeness. The artist deliberately gives audience members the agency to take care of themselves, gently guiding them to make space for their own healing. Armstead has a “space holder,” a person who holds space for them at each performance—intentionally not putting the burden on the audience.

Armstead’s piece is deeply personal and autobiographical, yet universal. They use three characters—the jubilant little boy, the lonely teenager, and the responsible, empathetic professional—to share stories from different stages of their life. Armstead uses body language, tone, and facial expressions to articulate distinct personas, as well as a disembodied voice that adds characters and interaction throughout the one-person show.

As someone who exists at so many marginalized intersections of society—Black, queer, non-binary, and trans—Armstead never fit neatly in the boxes and expectations of their family. A shy preacher’s kid, the first experience they had with song was in a church gospel choir. While Armstead eventually sheds aspects of their upbringing that restricted and constrained them, song is a gift from childhood that remains a constant companion and touchstone throughout their journey.

Armstead’s teenager is deeply lonely and feels unseen in the mostly white suburbs where they grew up. During college, the teenager explores their queerness, which provides community and acceptance. The teenager is often afraid to ask for the space and care they need for their own healing. Finally, the professional carries the story forward, grounds the experience, and provides perspective. In a touching moment of inner healing work, the professional kneels down to hug and forgive the little boy inside. Armstead also honors their ancestors by telling their ancestors’ story through poetry and movement.

They end the performance with an invitation to the audience to sing along with “This Little Light of Mine,” a reprise and reclamation of the song Armstead sang as a child. The artist’s generous and emotional outpouring is sure to resonate with anyone who has struggled to find their place in the world. With the lingering musical notes, Armstead leaves the audience with a tune of hope and light for our own healing journey.