I Lived to Tell the World Live

Patricia Valian Reser Center for the Creative Arts
470 SW 15th St
Corvallis, OR 97331
7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Saturday, February 1, 2025

The Immigrant Story and Oregon State University Press invite you to a special program hosted by Patricia Valian Reser Center for the Creative Arts, “I Lived to Tell The World Live,” at 7 p.m., Feb. 1, 2025, at Detrick Concert Hall, 470 SW 15th St., Corvallis, OR 97331. This memorable evening of music and stories will honor Oregon survivors of genocides and atrocities of war. 

The event kicks off with survivors of genocides from Bosnia, Rwanda, Cambodia and Syria presenting remarkable, first-person tales of  fortitude, resilience and hope in the face of unimaginable challenges. They will recount the arduous journeys that brought them to Oregon and the courageous ways they built their homes and lives here in Oregon. Their experiences offer inspiration to any audience.

Following a brief intermission, the evening will continue with a melodious vocal performance by Shivani Joshi. She’ll treat us to a soulful performance of traditional Ghazals and Qawwalis from South Asia. Joining Joshi will be a talented ensemble of eight musicians, each with their own unique expertise, blending Sufi sounds with Western harmonies. This remarkable fusion is the result of a collaborative effort between Shivani Joshi (vocals), Joseph Harchanko (strings), and Fiaindratovo (Mimy) Manavihare (percussion). Together, they’ll create a truly unforgettable experience.

Join us for an evening of stories and music from Oregonians, about the places they built, the traditions they brought, and what it has meant to truly belong in their community.

Auditorium opens at 6:30 PM. 

Reserve Your Seat Here

Lightbox Happy Hour Open: Come early to celebrate our stories with drinks and good company! Join us at 6:00 PM for a delightful Happy Hour in the PRAx lobby. Drinks and light snacks will be available for purchase as you mingle with friends and enjoy the exhibits on display at lobby galleries. Meet Elizabeth Mehren, author of I Lived To Tell the World, just published by OSU Press. Purchase your book and get your copy signed! 

PRAx PRELUDE – Come hear the stories behind the magic: At 6:15 PM join Sankar Raman, founder of The Immigrant Story, for a short pre-show talk in Toomey Lobby. Discover the inspiring tales and rich traditions that fuel these captivating performances. Learn why these stories matter and why you won’t want to miss this show.

This event was made possible by a generous contribution from The Ronald W. Naito MD Foundation. Additional funding was provided by a grant from the Oregon Heritage Grant.