05/2021 - 06/2021
THE HIDDEN HISTORY: THE BANJO, A CELEBRATION OF JUNETEENTH
Director, Project Concept
Directorial Purpose
Methodological Approach(es):
Directing Overview
Entertaining but also enlightening...
I want to create a space for relearning and unlearning of misinformation, sharing with people that the story of Blacks/African-American's isn't just ones of enslavement but celebratory.
Focus: tracing the history of the banjo instrument and its culture back to the kora in Africa, griots and providing historical accuracy
- Collaborating creatively with the actors, producers and technical designers to build the show from the ground up
- Documenting and analyzing creative practices using written notes, digital archival methods, performance
Professional Critique
Virginia Beach Cultural Affairs Department via YouTube
#VBGIGS Presents "Hidden History: The Banjo"
A full audience was treated to a salute to freedom through expression and creativity. The 60-minute performance included an array of music, dance, and spoken word poetry from talented local artists including: Rita Cohen from Tidewater African Cultural Alliance, Corey and LaQuita Staten from Atumpan Edutainment, Bill Armstrong from Tidewater Bluegrass Music Association, Kanya Edmonds and Author Kween Yakini.
Audience Feedback
"So entertaining and enlightening for everyone!"
"The takeaway is larger than just learning the history...hidden history of one instrument but this piece made me thinking about all the other histories that have been mistold to us, my people."
