By Ian Wisecup
The Community Open Dress Rehearsal (CODR) is an amazing opportunity for Cincinnati Opera to share the art of music with the community, but it is also a spectacular opportunity to showcase the gifts and talents of our valued community partners. I had the pleasure of speaking with Margarita Whitson, a licensed cosmetologist of Franciscan Ministries’ Haircuts from the Heart program, and one of the amazing volunteer barbers cutting hair at this year’s CODR. Join me as we learn more about Margarita, including how she came to work for Franciscan Ministries and how her experience as a cosmetologist has impacted her art and sense of community.
Margarita Whitson is a New Jersey native who has been living in Cincinnati for over five years. She has been a licensed cosmetologist for over twenty-three years. When asked what brought her to the field of cosmetology, she stated, “One thing that brought me to the field of cosmetology was the ability to be able to create and see my finished product. Cosmetology was a way for me to meet new people and establish great relationships! At the age of 20, I opened up my very first hair salon in Atlantic City, NJ, which allowed me to do hair for people of all backgrounds and ethnicities.” It goes to show that art and community go hand-in-hand!
Wanting to know more about Franciscan Ministries and the work they do, Whitson shared more information about the programs they offer for those who are suffering with addiction and living in poverty. “We are committed to serving our community and meeting people’s needs to the best of our ability,” she explains. Franciscan Ministries offers four programs which include The Community Garden, Tamar’s Center, Tau House, and Haircuts from the Heart, where Whitson is employed as a mobile stylist, providing free haircuts to people who don’t have access to a salon or cannot afford haircuts.
On her experience, Whitson states, “Franciscan Ministries has given me the opportunity to be more involved in the community by going to different social service organizations and provide a service that will allow someone to feel great about themselves. One thing that led me to work at Franciscan Ministries was the ability to do something I loved and, at the same time, be able to help my community. I didn’t want to work in a traditional salon setting. Being mobile allows me to see more of the great resourses that Cincinnati has to offer its growing community.” Whitson also reiterates the importance and love she has for community, describing it as “an extended family.”
Margarita Whitson
Cincinnati Opera is very excited to have youth back in Music Hall for the 30th Annual Community Open Dress Rehearsal, and we truly appreciate our partnership with Margarita and Franciscan Haircuts from the Heart for this very special community event. At the end of our conversation, Margarita shared some words of wisdom:
“The advice that I would give children who are thinking of becoming a barber or stylist is, make sure you love it! The field of cosmetology is not just about cutting hair. Cosmetology is perfecting your craft, loving all people, and preparing to constantly learn about the ever-evolving business. Cosmetology is not just a trade, it is an art form!”
Thank you for sharing a bit about your craft, and the artistry in what you do for the community.
We hope you enjoy your haircut!
* Reprinted from the 30th Annual Community Open Dress Rehearsal Program. July 3, 2023.
Cincinnati Opera Community Engagement and Education receives support from the H.B., E.W., and F.R. Luther Charitable Foundation and the Charles H. Dater Foundation.