

Helder Guimarães, a Portuguese immigrant, storyteller, and sleight-of-hand magician, arrives in America at age 29 and discovers a fascinating puzzle of cultural and professional challenges to solve while building a home. The Hope Theory is a new theatrical event offering a unique perspective on America through the eyes of an optimistic outsider.

Over the course of eight sessions, participants will explore, question, and reimagine the meaning of America as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary. Through collaborative devising, participants will create an original 10-minute performance that centers youth perspectives, civic expression, and creative resistance.