In Part Two of Theatre Talk series honoring Vivienne L. Jackson, host Bleu Do’zia sits down with Mark Harmon and Josh Riley to explore the legacy of a woman who built sanctuary long before it became a building name.

Matt Harmon, a church and choir member who knew Ms. Vivienne through First United Methodist Church, reflects on what it meant to witness her spirit in a sacred space—her presence, her encouragement, and the way she showed up for others with quiet strength and unwavering support.

Josh Riley shares what it was like to spend his teen years inside Ruth’s Tea Room, a place that became a refuge for people from all walks of life. Now recognized as a local historian of Ruth’s Tea Room, Josh also speaks about his role as a key fundraiser supporting Ms. Vivienne’s retirement and preserving her story for the community.

This episode is rooted in lived memory and living history, connecting faith, fellowship, and community care to the future of Selah Theatre Project’s permanent home: the Vivienne L. Jackson Sanctuary for the Arts, opening in 2026.

Because sanctuary is not just a place you enter.
It’s a place that holds you.
And Ms. Vivienne held a whole community.

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