The New York City edition of Allegra Activations, accompanies the world premiere of Allegra. This series of free public programs and digital resources opens up the artistic lineages, historical hauntings, and original designs which have shaped the world of Allegra. Spanning archival film, cross-cultural conversations on craft, and live musical demonstrations, these activations invite audiences to peer behind the curtain and wander a bit deeper into the dream world of the performance.
Co-organized by Jeffrey Gan and Benjamin Akio Kimitch
LIVE EVENTS:
Film Screening: History and Memory: For Akiko and Takashige
Sept. 30, 7:00PM, The Wythe Hotel (Doors 6:30PM)
Free w/ RSVP
Filmmaker Rea Tajiri blends interviews, memorabilia, and a pilgrimage to the camp where her mother was interned, ruminating on the difficult nature of representing the past – especially a past that exists outside traditional historic accounts. More than simply calling attention to the gaps in the story of the Japanese American internment, this important film from 1991 raises questions about collective history; questions that prompt Tajiri to daringly re-imagine and re-create what has been stolen and what has been lost. This 30 minute documentary short will be followed by a discussion between the filmmaker and choreographer Benjamin Akio Kimitch. Complimentary popcorn and cocktails will be served. Hosted by the Wythe Hotel Art Program.
Pre-Show Talk: Carlos J Soto and Dr. Jeffrey Gan
Oct. 9, 6:00PM, New York Live Arts Lobby
Free w/ RSVP
Join Allegra costume designer Carlos J Soto and dramaturg Jeffrey Gan for a lively conversation on the costume designs underpinning this piece.
Gagaku Demonstration: The Columbia Gagaku Instrumental Ensemble of New York
Oct. 10, 6:00PM, New York Live Arts Studio
Free w/ RSVP
Step into the sonic world of Allegra before Saturday night’s performance. Join members of The Columbia Gagaku Instrumental Ensemble of New York for a special 30-minute music demonstration and talk. Meaning “elegant music,” Gagaku, along with its dance and music repertoire called Bugaku, are ancient performance traditions that directly shape the landscape of Allegra. Musicians Kodai Speich (hichiriki), Lish Lindsey (ryūteki), and Nina Fukuoka (shō) will unpack the history of these classical forms and offer a live demonstration of Gagaku music repertory.
