Diana DuMelle shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Diana, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: Have you stood up for someone when it cost you something?
Yes, I try to stand up for others as often as I can — though honestly, not as often as I’d like. I work to stay actively aware of people around me who may be in distress or vulnerable. Especially in these times, when hateful rhetoric and actions have become more public and prevalent, I make it a point to watch for fellow humans in need and look for opportunities to step in and protect others.
I’m particularly sensitive to the treatment of children and women, and have too often witnessed aggressive behavior in public spaces. I’ve intervened in several of these situations, and have been threatened more than once as a result.
Early in my career, as a young professional, I stood on principle in defense of artists — even when that meant opposing my own employers. In one case, I wasn’t asked back. In another, I quit in protest. I don’t regret either decision.
I want to do better and do more in these challenging times. Protesting, writing my representatives, organizing, and attending community meetings have become a regular part of my life. I am willing to put my beliefs and values on the line.
Using art as a form of protest — and the platform we’ve built over 15 years at Bodhi Tree Concerts — has no doubt cost us support in various forms. We even had an NEA grant rescinded due to executive orders. Still, we view this work as a privilege. As a small company, we strive to be fearless in representation and in telling the truth, no matter what the cost.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Now completing our 14th season, Bodhi Tree Concerts remains committed to our mission of performing intentional acts of kindness through music. We exclusively hire local artists to foster community engagement, philanthropy, and cultural enrichment throughout San Diego and Baja California.
From opera and jazz to classical and the avant-garde, we challenge artistic boundaries and expand the listening horizons of our audiences. Our work is grounded in artistic excellence and a bold vision—to present not only innovative new works, but works that speak directly to the lived experiences and stories of our region.
Bodhi Tree Concerts has a strong history of prioritizing music education. We have produced two children’s operas—Brundibár by Hans Krása and The Little Sweep by Benjamin Britten—each accompanied by robust educational programming. Public school students performed on stage, played in the orchestra, and worked backstage. In addition, they received free tickets, classroom visits from teaching artists, educational materials, and opportunities to hear from guest speakers who helped place these works in their historical and artistic contexts.
Cross-border collaboration has long been central to our identity. Our enduring partnership with Ópera de Tijuana—just miles away—embodies the unifying power of the arts.
Although we are a small organization, we have a consistent and recognized record of artistic and critical success.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who taught you the most about work?
My parents. Both were second-generation Americans, raised in hardworking immigrant families where dedication, responsibility, and care for extended family and community were core values. From the very beginning, those principles were instilled in me.
My father served in the Air Force during the Korean conflict, then earned his college degree while working full-time and raising my older sisters. Both of my parents continued to volunteer for their church and neighborhood well into their later years. Their example taught me the true meaning of hard work, duty, and the power of serving others — both family by blood and by choice.
My father passed away many years ago, and I just recently lost my mother, who we cared for at home until her death. That experience was, without question, the hardest work of my life — but also a joy and a privilege. Perhaps it was her final lesson to me: that unconditional, steady love and care are the most important work we can ever do. I desperately hope I’m passing that knowledge on to our son.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Believe in yourself – you matter just as much as the next person. Do not worry about what other people are thinking about you – and simply be your authentic self – you have so much to offer the world.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would say that community and bringing people together have always been at the heart of who I am. Since college, they’ve known me as someone with an open door, plenty of food and drink to share, and a genuine willingness to listen.
They’d also mention my love of gathering people — whether it’s planning a trip to Disneyland, organizing a camping weekend, protesting for a cause, reuniting old friends, or just finding a reason to celebrate. Creating connection and shared joy is what fuels me.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Yes. At my core, I’m a “behind-the-scenes” kind of person. I take pride in having a steady, quiet hand in the work I do, and I always give it my best — whether or not anyone is watching.
In many ways, that’s part of the long, often unrecognized history of women and marginalized communities in this country. Showing up, doing the work, and creating impact — with or without praise — is part of who I am and strive to be.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bodhitreeconcerts.org
- Facebook: @Bodhi-Tree-Concerts-100069338229961.
- Youtube: @bodhitreeconcerts4222
- Other: https://www.panchorabbit.org
Image Credits
Photos by Bodhi Tree Concerts and Donnie Eastman
