This coming weekend, Jefferson County residents will be in for a treat via Southern Dance Works.
Set to begin at 7:00 p.m. Saturday and 2:30 p.m. Sunday at the Dorothy Jemison Day Theater at Birmingham’s ASFA, this performance will showcase contemporary choreography, original music, spoken text, and visual elements that are sure to create a rich theatrical environment for audience members.
James Baldwin: A Letter to My Nephew is based around the powerful words and enduring legacy of popular author and intellectual Mr. James Baldwin.
Southern Dance Works Artistic Director Germaul Barnes told us:
“The world premiere of this particular show is an invitation to gather, listen, reflect and engage with one another. James Baldwin’s words serve as the foundation. The themes are universal and being that it’s an examination of Black men’s experiences, it too is driven with the purpose of creating a space for members of every background to start a conversation about humanity and compassion.”
Baldwin’s particular essay, A Letter To My Nephew, which Baldwin used to explain to his own family members, male in particular, what to expect within such a society, is just as relevant today as it was when first published and surely will inspire deeper thoughts for all audience members.
Drawn from Mr. Barnes’ belief that art can help us all confront difficult truths while imagining new possibilities for connection and healing, this particular performance is one for all art lovers and thinkers within today’s society.
Mr. Barnes also told us:
“This work speaks to family, acceptance, vulnerability and love. My hope is that audiences will leave feeling seen, challenged, inspired and connected to one another in meaningful ways.”
For further information, visit the Southern DanceWorks website, email info@southerndanceworks.com, or visit all social media platforms @SouthernDanceWorks.
Don’t miss a phenomenal treat that is an invitation for us all to come together while tackling the ills that continue to strive to keep us apart.
