The state's first lady will highlight one of the community events planned for Prudential presents North to Shore Festival that starts in Atlantic City this week.
There are dozens of unique events taking place through June 23 that encompass the vast diversity that the city has to offer.
That includes Tuesday's "Harmonizing Health: The Transformative Power of Arts in Maternal Well-Being," a conversation on creative engagement and motherhood led by Tammy Murphy.
She is passionate about the festival, which the brainchild of her husband's administration and encompasses music, dance, culture, community events, local talent and national headliners.
BreakingAC was able to ask Mrs. Murphy a few questions about the interesting mash-up of motherhood and the arts in her upcoming panel.
BreakingAC: Can you tell our readers what this festival means to you and your husband?
Tammy Murphy: The Governor and I are delighted to see how quickly North to Shore has attracted amazing interest and has introduced audiences to talent and ideas that spark the imagination. You won’t find another statewide festival that celebrates such vast diversity and unmatched talent quite like ours. We are thrilled to shine a light on everything that makes New Jersey so very special.
As a cultural and entertainment hub for the state, Atlantic City was an easy selection to serve as an anchor for the festival. The enthusiasm of local residents and the spirit of inclusivity that the city provides for its visitors is unmatched!
BAC: How did the concept of this panel come about?
TM: I think most people know how crucially important the issue of maternal and infant health is to me personally and to all parents in New Jersey. This panel highlights the innovative work being done all across New Jersey. In planning North to Shore, it was important to include programs and events that speak to the needs of New Jerseyans. New Jersey is currently ranked 27th nationwide for maternal deaths and has one of the widest racial disparities for maternal and infant mortalities. It is unacceptable.
In 2019, I launched the Nurture NJ initiative to help transform New Jersey into the safest and most equitable state in the nation to deliver and raise a baby. These conversations are not always easy, but they are so important.
BAC: Can you tell us about your relationships with the panelists? Have you worked with any of the panelists before?
TM: I’ve had the pleasure of partnering with Yvelisse Gonzalez of the Partnership of Maternal and Child Health on my Ask an Expert series to talk about maternal mental health. I am so happy we were able to attract a panel of expert women who have dedicated their careers to advancing maternal health. Those in the audience will surely learn and be inspired.
BAC: Why are the arts important during pregnancy?
TM: There are so many benefits to the arts, especially during pregnancy. Pregnancy is a tough and stressful time, and especially for new moms as the transition to motherhood can be overwhelming. Studies show that art can serve as a comfort and stress reliever, benefitting a person’s mental health and emotional well-being. Those experiencing pregnancy must take time to nurture their own bodies and minds to ensure they are healthy and prepared to carry another.
BAC: Do you have any tips for first-time mothers or mothers who are on a tight budget for a successful pregnancy that includes exposure to the arts?
TM: You don’t need a large budget to enjoy the arts. There are ample opportunities statewide to visit exhibits, historical landmarks, free concerts, poetry readings, and more. Grab a paintbrush and let your creative energies flow!
BAC: What was your favorite thing about the festival last year?
TM: There were so many incredible moments of the inaugural North to Shore festival, but I must say I loved the dance party I attended in Atlantic City as well as each of the B-52s and Halsey, alongside Stephen Colbert and the panels.
BAC: What’s on your festival bucket list of “must sees” this year?
TM: We are still putting our schedules together to see how many events we can attend. Bleachers are high on my list this year, along with The Weeklings, The Audible Showcase Stage, and many more.
BAC: Anything else you would like to add?
TM: In addition to encouraging everyone to check out the many offerings on northtoshore.com, I want to thank all involved for the outpouring of support for North to Shore. From the local community partners and artists to our global headliners, local businesses, and others – this all works because of you. Please join us as there truly is something for every person at our festival!
To register for the webinar panel "Harmonizing Health: The Transformative Power of Arts in Maternal Well-Being: CLICK HERE.
For a complete schedule of Prudential presents North to Shore Festival visit Monopoly City.
