It is with heavy hearts we share that our beloved Dea Hurston passed on, surrounded by her family, on Sunday, July 7th, 2024. Miss Dea, as she was affectionately known by our staff, was one of the strongest and most inspirational women we’ve ever known. The world has lost an incredible light. Denied access to the arts as a child because of the color of her skin, Dea became a force for creating opportunities for anyone who had been turned away. She had an indelible impact in the San Diego theatre community: mentoring, encouraging, supporting, loving, and always, telling her truth. When discussing whose name would be at the top of our newly remodeled arts center there was really only one choice, and that was Dea Hurston. She has been a constant fixture in the San Diego arts world, often as the first and only Black person in the room, paving the way for so many artists, administrators, philanthropists, and patrons. All of us at New Village Arts promise to do everything in our power to keep her legacy alive and to continue to build a home for adventurous artistic experiences for everyone in our community, and especially for those denied access in the past. The Dea Hurston New Village Arts Center will stand as a testament to the perseverance, passion and spirit of our beloved friend. We feel so fortunate to have shared in Dea’s extraordinary life. We will miss her so very much and send all love and support to her family and friends. - Kristianne Kurner and all of us at New Village Arts
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