WE ARE HERE
We Are Here is a full-length musical written and composed by Evan Johnson and Socks Whitmore. The story follows a high school guidance counselor and four students that she works with, discussing themes of community, self-care, and mental health in schools. Drawing from interviews and discussion groups conducted over the course of a year, the show aims to break down stigmas surrounding these topics.
We Are Here had its workshop premiere on February 2nd, 2019 in the Wild Beast Concert Hall at CalArts and went on to win New Musical Inc.’s 2019 New Voices Project. Socks originated the lead role of Valerie, the queer guidance counselor who struggles with trauma from her past and the unexpected return of her abuser.
The show calls for seven actors and an orchestra of piano, flute, clarinet, viola, and cello (piano reduction available). For more information about performing the show or any of its songs, contact Evan Johnson or Socks Whitmore.
Bows of We Are Here. Photo Credit: Kial Hocker
Content Advisory: this piece addresses themes of sexual assault, mental health, & suicidal ideation
February 2, 2019 Workshop Premiere. Video Credit: Nicolás Savigno and Irene Gil Ramon
CAST ALBUM SELECTIONS
The poster for the workshop production of We Are Here in 2019. Art Credit: Socks Whitmore