appreciating kin folk

performing with the Robert Moses' Kin (rmk) dance company was one of the high points in my artistic life. robert and i met in 1995 when we were part of a showcase of singers and dancers trying to sell the idea of an acappella musical to potential producers. that was the same year that robert's own dance company made its debut at theater artaud. i'll never forget the jarring choreography to nina simone's "mississippi g*ddamn," among other pieces. the entire performance was stunning. ever since, i've tried to see rmk in action every season. so it was indeed a dream for me when robert asked me, in his whimsical, down-to-earth way, to collaborate on this production of "the president's daughter."

the story, as told through movement, music, and narration, is based on the relationship between thomas jefferson and sally hemmings, a mulata he "owned." it justaposed race, gender, and power in an incredible way - each time i saw it performed, i uncovered some new meaning in the choreography. in addition to giving props to robert for working his movement magic, to the live musicians (including sf's most cool cat, marcus shelby), and the company as a whole, i have to single out raissa, who "played" the sally hemmings character. during one solo piece in particular, SHE SERVED IT! her angst as the tortured lover, mother, and ultimately concubine was heartwrenching, and she broke my heart every night.

i also really appreciate the company's support of my singing. this gave me a spark which had been snuffed a long time ago. maybe i'll even do a concert again someday.

to everyone who came to see the show and support rmk and me, THANK YOU!