“Illuminate the Darkness” is a multimedia theatrical production written and performed by Bea Conner-Pohl. The production has three elements, a live theatrical performance by Conner-Pohl, a screening of video interviews of five women of color by Conner-Pohl, and audience participation. “Illuminate the Darkness” exposes cultural stereotypes perpetuated by misinformation and ignorance that is associated with racism and sexism in America. The women interviewed share their success strategies to not just survive but thrive. “Illuminate the Darkness” is being developed through a collaboration with the Phoenix Theatre Ensemble, a non-profit art organization and the Rivertown Film Society. The project received partial funding from Humanities NY. Conner-Pohl is a retired special education teacher, playwright and actress. She has a master’s degree in teaching and a Bachelor of Science in IT and Visual Arts. She has performed in several plays at the Nyack Village Theatre, Antrim Playhouse Theatre and Elmwood Playhouse Theatre. She wrote, directed, and performed in her own work “Time Immemorial – An African American Experience.” She wrote and directed her own play based on the life of her grandmother, “The Broken Window,” performed at the Antrim Playhouse in Suffern, and has several of her short plays commissioned by Phoenix Theatre Ensemble.