It’s been ten years since ‘Year of Yes’ first inspired readers to embrace the power of possibility—and now, author, showrunner (with credits like ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and ‘Scandal’) and creative storyteller Shonda Rhimes is hitting the road to celebrate. As part of her anniversary tour, Rhimes will bring the show to Philadelphia’s Perelman Theatre this October, offering fans a rare, intimate evening of stories, reflection, and unfiltered honesty.
Rhimes spoke with Metro, discussing the origins of “Year of Yes,” connecting with her audience, and more.
Where did the idea for the show/tour come from to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of ‘Year of Yes’?
When we went out on the first book tour we went to a few major cities, but we didn’t get to go out and see so many of the amazing people that I met while on the campaign trail last year. Getting out into the actual country and off the coasts is so important and where so many people are who have read the book. I hope that it gives me the chance to experience them as much as they get to experience me.
What do you like most about the idea of getting to connect with audiences throughout the process of the tour?
I love meeting people who have read the book and hear what they think about it. People have very different perspectives on what they read. Different things touch them. Different things move them. They think different things are funny. And I love to hear how people connect with the book.
What will the show hold? What can fans of the book and your career expect?
When I wrote the book, I tried to be as honest, vulnerable, frank and forthright as the characters in my shows. One of things I am most looking forward to is getting to sit on stage, let my hair down and share the truth about everything and letting the audience know who I am firsthand. And with Debbie Allen moderating the conversation, there is no way for it not to be honest and fun.
How was the process of adding new chapters/material to the ‘Year of Yes’ for its 10-year anniversary?
Getting to add new chapters and material to the book was really a chance to reflect on what has gone on in the past 10 years and how I have changed and grown over that time. It allowed me to really examine what it means to keep saying yes.
Why do you think ‘Year of Yes’ still continues to strike a chord with so many readers to this day?
So many readers tell me how saying yes in their own lives has changed things for them. I think the reason it strikes a chord is we are all struggling to stay open to new experiences, to try and grow and change as people and to celebrate the chance to evolve as a human being.
What do you hope people walk away thinking or feeling after getting to see your show at the Perelman Theatre in October?
I hope people feel inspired and that it makes them feel like the things they want to be possible for themselves are possible.
Catch Shonda Rhimes at the Perelman Theater (300 S Broad St.) at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts on Monday, Oct. 13 (7 p.m.) Tickets can be purchased online at ensembleartsphilly.org, by calling 215-893-1999, or in person at the Academy of Music Box Office (240 S. Broad Street) daily from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
