Trilogy of BEing

Trilogy of BEing… is comprised of three dance solos celebrating critically acclaimed dancer/choreographer Kevin A. Ormsby’s 35+ year dance career in Canada and the United States.

The production is a creative collaboration between Canadian and American choreographers—all of whom had worked or danced with Kevin A. Ormsby throughout his career—grounded in Black existence and experiences: environmental, social, and cultural.

Christopher Walker’s “Unmasked: Seaweed King” depicts a sort of phoenix rising from the refuse / ashes; addressing human impact on the environment told through a character of ancient wisdom linking Afro-Caribbean mas performance traditions. It is a part of The Kula Ring, A Gifting Economy (2016), a transdisciplinary expedition project merging scientific, environmental, and artistic research around ocean conservation and climate change.

“Somebody” by Denise Fujiwara, was inspired by Ormsby’s call to action in the wake of George Floyd’s murder. “I suggested a collaborative creative process that resulted in the solo for him.” Poetry by Giller Prize-winning Canadian author Ian Williams, Poet Laureate of Jamaica 2021-2024, Olive Senior, and Lambda Literary Award winner, American Rosamund S. King shapes the solo rich in contemporary butoh technique.

Joel Valentin-Martinez, through visual research of images and music of significant Black historical periods (Harlem Renaissance, 1960s -1970s, and the era of 80s hip-hop), crafts the solo, “Dear Brother,”  commenting on how we see contemporary Black and Brown lives in shaping music, fashion and popular culture  – Friday’s performance of the piece includes a special presentation with three other dance artists (Will Brown (NYC), Benjamin Russell (Toronto), and Kevin Shawn (Calgary)

About the Artists

Livestream tickets available Friday, April 14th 2023