She Did That! Free Community Workshop Generates Raw Material for New Work

fullcircledance
May 13
2 min read

Hazel, Baba Tone, Thelma, Mattie Lee, Elmaza, Stephania, Florence, Grandma Zette, Temple, Johnnie Mae, Rose Mary. These are just some of the foremothers whose powerful stories surfaced during Full Circle Dance Company's May 8 She Did That! Free Community Workshop.

Open to dancers and non-dancers alike, this workshop invited people to share and reflect on stories of female ancestors. Working in small groups, participants created movements inspired by these stories. Drummer Carl Allen responded to the choreography in real time, enhancing the creative process.

Each person brought to the workshop a unique family history, and the ancestors discussed were from different places and decades. Yet creative experiments uncovered common themes transcending geography and time. Many of the women were buffeted by hardship and constrained by limits, but they found ways to thrive and to share their knowledge and resources with others. They cared for and strove to secure a positive future for generations to follow. They defied unjust rules, employing intelligence, creativity, and fortitude.They loved generously and fought to protect their families and communities.

"The goal of this workshop," said Full Circle Artistic Director Donna L. Jacobs, "was to invite anyone with a story to share into our creative process. The stories of the participants and their beautiful and meaningful movements will form the foundation for a new work, She Did That!, to premiere November 9 at the Baltimore Museum of Art."

Workshop participants were moved in unexpected ways. One noted, “It brought the energy of the ancestors into the space. That was very emotional to watch.” A second said "I thought I was going to modern dance class and I ended up reminiscing about my grandmother, meeting new friends, and enjoying dance and creativity.”

"Each story shared with us this week is a priceless, unique, powerful contribution," said Full Circle Associate Director Liz Pelton. "As we embark on the creation of a new work of art, we will draw on the experiences that have been so generously offered. We cannot wait to reveal the final result."

She Did That! will be a centerpiece of Full Circle Dance Company's 25th Anniversary production Rooted and Rising, to be presented in two performances on November 9 at the Baltimore Museum of Art. Stay tuned for more information and ticket details.