Boschimanne: living curiosities (VIDEO)
Choreographer: Kesha McKey
Boschimanne: living curiosities, explores the story of Sara “Saartjie" Baartman (Hottentot Venus) with focus on exhibition of the African American female body image and the establishment of European ideas of black female sexuality. It investigates the scientific and philosophical assumptions of black women which emerge in representations of savage sexuality, degradation and racial inferiority.
(photo credit: Melisa Cardona)
Interrupted (VIDEO)
Choreographer: Kesha McKey
Interrupted investigates emotional challenges and physical manifestations associated with survival instincts and the fight to live. The palpable mental and physical reactions of the body as it is faced with the inevitability of death are exposed through movement explorations.
(photo credit: Melisa Cardona)
Daughters
Choreographer: Catherine Caldwell
Daughters chronicles the maternal relationships of four generations of women; the body and soul as well as the challenges and hardships of mother-daughter relationships. This piece investigates the importance of nurturing relationships and the emotional influence that stems from this connection.
(photo credit: Melisa Cardona)
Distorted Images (VIDEO)
Choreographer: Kesha McKey
Distorted Images is a work inspired by the value placed on physical appearance, which is often compared to unachievable images in the media. Through dance and spoken word, we explore the knowledge, truth, understanding and experience with self image and discontent with ultimately encouragement and a positive outlook on unrealistic expectations.
(photo credit: Peter Nakhid)
Taken (VIDEO)
Choreographer: Kesha McKey
Taken is inspired by the historical epidemic of the absentee father in African American families and communities. Using dance, theatre, spoken word and song, Taken exhibits a historical journey depicting significant events that have affected the African American family such as slavery, war, street violence and incarceration.
(photo credit: El-Pwe Photography)
80's Fever
Choreographer: Jarrell Hamilton
80’s Fever honors the 70's and 80's era in Pop and R&B culture through the lens of what was once an American musical variety television program, " Soul Train.” Inspire by the Ernie Barnes piece “ Sugar Shack” this work represents the horizon of blacks in the American commercial medium, but more importantly, a multicultural community united and immersed in love through the power of music and social dance.
(photo credit: Melisa Cardona)