| The RED Letter, Mar 2008 |
Table of Contents
1. Words from Lisa Pijuan-Nomura
I just spent a week up north teaching at a school. I read two books, made a bunch of Artist Trading Cards, walked in the woods, and began writings for a new project. But the thing that struck me most about being up north was how quickly I was amazed by nature. One day I watched as 7 deer walked by the house where I was staying. These deer were not frolicking Bambi’s like I often imagine deer to be. No, these were quiet slow carefully walking through big drifts of snow sort of deer. The next day I went back to the school and told all of the kids about the deer. They looked at me like I was an alien. “We see deer all the time. Big deal…I mean, they are nice, but they’re just deer.” Wow. “You have so many malls. Now that is cool!” It didn’t matter what I was talking about the kids were sold on the malls and I was all about the deer. It was nice to be amazed. In this crazy world of technology and wonky world politics, I think that it is important to find something to amaze oneself. Last week it was the deer, this week it’s amazement at how much snow can fall from the freaking sky. Either way, I challenge us to return to the space of being a young child, forever finding magic in the world around us. Enjoy the spring… if it ever comes. Seek out the magic. It could be right next to you.2. An Interview with Doll Artist Mimi KirchnerI first saw Mimi Kirchner’s work when I was searching for new techniques to work on some of my puppets. I came across her blog and I saw her tattooed men dolls, which were really cool, and different than anything I had imagined for an art doll. They are spectacular the more I read about Mimi the more I wanted to share. I hope you enjoy this interview and her work as much as I do! - Lisa
Where does your inspiration for the dolls come from?
3. Feature Dance: Abattoir by Kaeja d’Dance
A multi-disciplinary exploration of innocence and rites of passage. Concept & Direction by Allen Kaeja Featuring Dancers Collaborators: Fides Krucker (New Opera Singer), and Edgardo Moreno (Composer) Original Text: Jason Sherman March 25, 27-29, 2008 at 8pm
Dense with hard-edged kinetics and physical dynamism, two award-winning choreographers converge as Kaeja d'Dance presents the Toronto premiere of Abattoir. Compelling dance and bold partnering, developed from Allen Kaeja’s past competitive training in the martial arts and Karen Kaeja's lyrical sensitivities, engulf the Abattoir stage. The first full-evening work they have choreographed together, this new dance creation by life partners Allen and Karen Kaeja reflects on the resiliency of the human spirit as it intertwines dance, new opera, music and theatre. Loosely inspired by Allen's childhood experiences, Abattoir explores the acute line between the imaginary and realistic world of a young boy working in his father’s abattoir. Amidst the complex intimacy of the killing floor, the child’s wonderment and beautiful innocence stands in stark counterpoint to his critical role in the life cycle of the animals; instilling in him, oddly at first glance, with a deep respect for life. Abattoir combines Allen Kaeja's visceral kinetic aesthetic and explosive movement with Karen Kaeja's liquid, sensual athleticism and choreographic lyricism to create a work full of depth and disturbing beauty. For more info see www.kaeja.org
4. Feature Opera – Stitch at the Free Fall Festival
From the abuse of the sweatshop to the fantasy of costume and the empowerment of sewing-it-yourself, the sewing machine has been a force for liberation and exploitation since its invention in the 19th century. Anchored in the sounds and rhythms of sewing, Stitch uncovers the emotional layers of the relationship between woman and barely-tamed machine. Hemmed in by the language of sewing and the inexorable rhythm of the machine, three women fight to find space for imagination and individuality. From the sweet 3-part stylings of “Cowl-neck Blues” to the fierce interlocked minimalism of “Chain stitch, Lock stitch, Whip stitch”, Stitch gives voice to the unseen women who clothe us. Stitch features the vocal talents of: Christine Duncan “…smooth as honey throughout her five-octave range” (The Globe and Mail) Patricia O’Callaghan “the most promising cabaret performer of her generation” (Billboard Magazine) Neema Bickersteth “amazing control of her vocal palette…warm and sensual” (Opera Canada) Stitch is an urbanvessel production with text by Anna Chatterton “droll and outrageous” (The Globe and Mail), music by Juliet Palmer “ideas and methods to the left of normal” (Los Angeles Times) and direction by Ruth Madoc-Jones “draws powerful performances from the cast” (NOW magazine). March 12 7:30pm The Lennox Contemporary Tickets: $10 matinee, $20 evening performances
5. Feature Theatre: a nanking winterNanking, 1937: In the first weeks of the Japanese invasion of China’s capital a group of unlikely heroes bands together to create a refuge from the unspeakable horror. Nightwood Theatre presents this stunning world premiere by Governor General's Award nominated Marjorie Chan. A brazen young writer’s campaign to ensure the past is not forgotten is challenged as she prepares for her book release -- transporting us to one of the greatest horrors of the 20th century. The play is a gripping account of survival in the darkest of times. a nanking winter was created for Nightwood Theatre, in association with Cahoots Theatre Projects, by Marjorie Chan, who was nominated for a Governor General's award in 2004 for China Doll, also a Nightwood project. This new show stars Leon Aureus, Ella Chan, Brooke Johnson, Grace Lynn Kung and Stephen Russell, under the direction of Ruth Madoc-Jones.
Factory Theatre Mainspace (corner of Adelaide and Bathurst) Tickets: Call 416-504-9971, or purchase online at www.nightwoodtheatre.net
6. Feature Theatre – Spike Heels at Bread and CircusTHE ROBINSON STREET PRODUCTIONS CO-OP* PRESENTS
Spike Heels A humorous story of power, class and sex in a triangle that updates the classic My Fair Lady / Pygmalion myth. Plays to March 22, 2008 TICKETS ONLINE at http://www.breadandcircus.ca Thursday thru Saturday at 8:30pm, Tickets $12 and $15 *This is an Equity approved co-op.
7. Feature Event: Terrible Noises for Beautiful People(I met Misha at a performance of Diplomatic Immunities a few years ago and we have kept in touch since then. Misha puts together amazing events that are cool and fun and brilliant! Check this out for sure! – Lisa) Terrible Noises for Beautiful People For the past few years, I've been running various events where I get groups of people to do sound improvisation together. Sometimes the groups of people run around, sometimes they are still. Sometimes they are big groups, sometimes little groups. Sometimes the event lasts 20 minutes; sometimes it goes on for eight weeks. These events are collectively called "Terrible Noises for Beautiful People". Details are still being decided. Tickets will be around $12, probably available at Soundscapes, online, and at the door.
8. Feature Visual Art: Octopus Project II: OnceThere are a few of RED Letter’s favourite people involved in this event, the wonderful Noah Kenneally, Joel Brubacher, Dave Pijuan-Nomura and yours truly showing some of my art work! With 62 artists it should be spectacular! - Lisa
62 Artists, 2 days, 1 theme In this second exhibition of the bi-monthly Octopus Project art series, the project brings together 62 artists of various disciplines. Artists will be showing new and original work in painting, drawing, photography, sculpture, textile, writing, costume, performance and food inspired by a single theme --"Once …"-- sent to the artists as a "spark" eight weeks in advance. Artists will be present during the opening reception on March 22, 2pm-6pm with a featured theatre performance by Rachelle Elie at 3:30 & 5pm, as well as a dance performance by Lucy Rupert at 4:30pm. "Sending sparks to fuel creativity and community" The Octopus Project was founded by Toronto textile artist Catherine Mellinger and Toronto photographer Melanie Gordon. Both Mellinger and Gordon will be showing work as part of the series, hosted this month by Melanie Gordon Photography. Octopus Project III: The spark for Octopus Project III will be sent out on March 23. Exhibition of new work inspired by this spark will be shown on May 23-25, a special three day showing in conjunction with Doors Open Toronto. If you would like to participate in Octopus Project III, please email us at octopusprojecttoronto@gmail.com. March 22-23, 2008 11am-6pm
9. Feature Festival: Toronto Festival of Storytelling
March 28 to April 6 This is our thirtieth festival and we invite you to come Listen to stories that celebrate the past, present and future of storytelling! For more info see http://www.torontofestivalofstorytelling.ca
10. Local Etsy Shop – Lurearts – Pottery by Pam McFayden
(I first met Pam at the Artisan Craft Fair at the Tranzac Club in December. I was helping my friend Joel choose a mug. Well, it was hard because Pam had so much to choose from. Now, I don’t know about you, but I love mugs. Sometimes I like the pretty girly mug, or sometimes I use my beer stein mug for my favourite tea. Either way as it turns out, I like mugs. I also am drawn to cool thing made from clay. Well, Pam has it all. Have a look in her shop and buy yourself a new wonderful piece of art!)
11. Artist Trading Card Live Trading Sessions
What is an ATC? Well, think of a baseball card. Or a playing card. Only, it doesn't have your favourite ball player, it has a one of a kind work of art. Originally these cards were created so that artists who couldn't afford art would swap with their friends. It has grown to become a movement that let's many people create and exchange original art! The only rules are that it must be 2.5' by 3.5' and it must be traded. ATC Toronto wants to spread the good word of Artist Trading Cards and is hosting monthly swaps and card making sessions! These cards are for everyone, not only artists! Well, join us once a month to make and trade some cards. Or come with your own cards to trade at our monthly session. This is a great way to meet new people, find some creative time and play with crayons, paper, glue, and paint and just have time to make art! Beginner’s welcome! Please know that this is for everyone! Even if you have never done any sort of art, you are welcome! It’s fun, and addictive, and you can have a great afternoon! Sunday March 30 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. One Block South of Queen
12. Creativity Classes with GirlCanCreate
“As a workshop leader, Lisa brings a sense of excitement and passion few can match. Her enthusiasm rubs off on the participants, now co-creators, in a world of movement and creativity carefully explored and unleashed in a safe, fun-filled experience. Lisa is both a masterful facilitator and a catalyst for stepping into the unknown. With such warmth and humour, she truly creates a joyous atmosphere in her classes and workshops.” - Beth Mairs, Director of Wild Woman Expedition
She Can Create: Creativity Classes for Women Join us for an experiential woman's creative group that meets once a week to play and create using a variety of different inspirations. Focusing on self-expression and the desire to bring more art to our lives we will use Collage, Storytelling, Movement, Doll making, Beadwork and Journaling to jumpstart our creativity and help create unique pieces of art and find ways how to continue creating after the classes are finished. Lisa will also talk about the overcoming creative blocks, taking steps to complete projects and letting the world know about your work. A sure fire inspiring workshop, register early to avoid disappointment as there is a limited amount of participants. When: Tuesdays Nights from 6:30 to 9:00 To register please email Lisa at lisa@girlcancreate.com or call 416-516-4925 Plus special deal for RED Letter readers, register and mention RED Letter and you will receive a complimentary creativity coaching session with Lisa Pijuan-Nomura. About Lisa: For many years Lisa has helped other artists when times were tough. It seemed to be a natural extension of her work as an artist and curator. Lisa has studied with many great creative minds including author and creativity expert Eric Maisel, Art Therapist Jacqueline Gautier, dancer Lisa Nelson, singer Ysaye Barnwell, musician Babatunde Olatunji, storyteller Judith Black and many others! With over 15 years of working as a performance artist, writer and educator, Lisa is especially passionate about bring art, humour and creativity to lives of women, youth and children.
13. Classes, Workshops and Conferences
Writing Workshops with Sarah Selecky Short Fiction Workshop for Beginners: Introducing the Story Where do stories come from? How do we get our ideas? More importantly, what do we do with the bits in our notebooks, once we have written them down? This workshop teaches beginning writers to use free writing, clustering, and other writing prompt tools to generate rich, complex, satisfying stories. It introduces the elements of fiction - character, plot, dialogue, setting, theme - and provides the structure that is necessary for a sprouting story to take root and flourish. A variety of exercises stimulate and train the writing mind. The goal is to encourage a personal writing practice that students will continue after the workshop is finished. The environment is non-intimidating and supportive, perfect for writers who would like to jumpstart their practice, explore technique, and create a useful foundation for their fiction writing. This course is open to all writers, even those who have not written fiction before. Classes held in Parkdale on Monday evenings, 6:30 – 9:30 Introducing the Workshop You know you can write a story, but you seem to need a deadline to get it out of your head and onto the page. Or you'd simply appreciate a community of writers who will read your work critically to help you begin your editing process. In this workshop series, we'll focus on finding the balance between inspiration and revision. You will do some in-class writing but will work on your stories from home, with a deadline set for the completed draft. The workshop sessions will be guided and facilitated, the critique respectful of each writer's unique voice. You'll gain the valuable insight of fellow writers who understand the challenges of the writing life, and through the process of reading critically; you'll deepen your relationship to your own writing. Classes held in Parkdale on Wednesday evenings, 6:30 – 8:30 Register for either one of these courses by contacting Sarah Selecky has been facilitating non-competitive, inspiring workshops for writers since 2001. She has studied writing with Natalie Goldberg and is currently completing her MFA in Creative Writing at the University of British Columbia. Her writing has been published in The Sun, Geist Magazine, Prairie Fire, The New Quarterly, and The Journey Prize Anthology. Vijnana Yoga and Myofascial Meridians with Sylvain Brochu March 29th and 30th, 2008 Location: Pia Bouman School for Ballet and Creative Movement Cheques can be made out to Series 8:08 and sent to the Dance Umbrella of Ontario (490 Adelaide St. W #201 Toronto ON M5V 1T2). Please be sure to include your contact info with your deposit. This workshop is open to pre-professional and professional dancers or artists from different backgrounds, or yoga practitioners. Vijnana is a Sanskrit word which means "inquiring-understanding from within." At its foundation are 7 principles: relaxing the body, quieting the mind, focusing through intent, rooting, connecting, breathing and expanding. Through deep personal inquiry as well as through partner work we will explore these principles. We will look at how applying them can bring us to a level of awareness that will enhance your daily practice, whatever this practice may be. Through just sitting (meditation), we will move towards finding a relaxed body and allowing the fluctuations of the mind to settle so intention can arise and become clear. Through pranayama (breath work), we will practice different breathing techniques. Through the asana practice (poses), we will explore Tomas Myers myofascial meridians as well as the concept of biotensegrity, which in essence is the balance of tension and compression elements in the body. We will discover that by channelling the rebound force through these meridians we can plant deep roots, make connections through the whole body to expand its full capacity. The goal is that by integrating the deep waters of our spirit with our life at the surface (our persona), we connect the upper and lower worlds and rediscover the inherent oneness of all life. Sylvain Brochu's Bio: Sylvian was introduced to yoga as a child and then rediscovered it in the late '80's. In the last 10 years, he has made it his practice. An inspiring teacher and educator, Sylvain is also a compassionate Shiatsu practitioner, an enthusiastic builder, an avid gardener and a passionate singer. After living in Toronto, Winnipeg, Vancouver and Quebec City, Sylvain has made his home on the beautiful Sunshine Coast of British Columbia where he teaches contemporary dance, yoga and has a private Shiatsu practice. Problems with Dancing; Dancing with Problems April 14-18, 2008 Through improvisation strategies, choreographic tasks, physical research, and discussion, Dancing with Problems: Problems with Dancing explores the themes of Sensation, Beauty (the problems of), Tasks, Image, and Flow through a variety of exercises and lenses. As the week progresses, the themes will carry over into each other. Keith Hennessy is an award-winning performer, choreographer, teacher and organizer. He lives in San Francisco and tours internationally. His interdisciplinary research engages improvisation, public actions and alchemy/shamanism as tools for investigating political realities. Hennessy directs CIRCO ZERO, a contemporary circus, in intimate spectacles for stage and street. Hennessy is a co-founder of 848 Community Space/CounterPULSE a thriving performance and culture space in San Francisco. Recent awards include Alpert/MacDowell Fellowship in Dance (2005) and SF Bay Guardian's Best of the Bay for Circo Zero. COST For more information and to register, contact us at idactroupe@sympatic o.ca Payment can be mailed to: **Please make cheques payable to "Intergrated Dance Artists Collective" Physical Theatre Workshops with Adam Lazarus I. Introduction to bouffon Games and exercises are used to discover students’ pleasure to mock social hypocrisies while simultaneously making audiences love you. Historically and culturally, the Bouffon traveled in groups or gangs. They stuck together and sat on the outside, in their ghettos, their swamps, looking in at the mainstream world. They watched human hypocrisies and laughed. Every now and then, they came back to do a play for the hypocrites. No subject, person or institution was spared their mockery. Bouffon techniques are extremely useful for performers in all disciplines, as well as for writers, public speakers, teachers and critical thinkers. Through Jeu, students will re-discover their mental and physical agility, sensitivity, stillness and complicity in a group. II. Building a performance Here students should come to class with an idea of something they want to work on and perform. Whether interested in bouffon, clown or character, the students’ focus of the week is on writing and performing. This is a deeper exploration into the world of physical performance that will culminate in an informal public performance at the end of the workshop. Completion of week one of two, or prior experience in bouffon, clown or character is required for this class. April 19 - April 20 Fees: Payment plans available Location: For registration and information contact:
14. Halcyon Health – A New Wellness Studio in the Annex!An intimate healing space with sweet-natured and experienced practitioners to help you feel your best Halcyon Health SERVICES AVAILABLE: SPACE AVAILABLE: * 200sq.ft. With two large windows and a large storage closet, walnut hardwood throughout COMING SOON: Special yoga class series: Yoga for Round Bodies, and Restorative Yoga for Stress Reduction Special workshops: Stress Reduction & Relaxation through Mindfulness, and Folk Remedies & Hydrotherapy for Self-Care
15. Read this Book! With Book Lady Sarah Selecky
When my mother was reading this book of essays, she told me that she had a hard time with the writing. She was occasionally offended by the snarky humour, the criticism, the overall outlook on life. She told me, “David Rakoff is just so cynical and negative.” I would call his writing “critical and brilliant,” but then, I’m the type of person who thinks it’s useful to feel uncomfortable every so often. Especially when the reminder is coming from a freakishly brilliant social critic who has a preternaturally flawless vocabulary and an exquisite sense of comic timing. Then again, my mother has a thing for expensive extra-virgin olive oil, and Rakoff kind of dissed the luxury food trade in his essay, “What is the Sound of One Hand Shopping?” I’ll admit it: I have a thing for the fancy olive oil, too. I also have a collection of fancy salts from all over the world. But when Rakoff wrote about a New York food critic waxing poetic over the “tasting notes” for a salt that costs $18/lb – no bitter aftertaste! – I did wince at myself little. I mean, come on: after all, it is just salt. How does it taste? Salty. I get it. Rakoff’s essays successfully interrogate our current atmosphere of luxury, excess and abundance with satisfying detail and humour. He flies the last flight on the Concorde; he flies Hooters Air. He visits a cosmetic surgeon to find out what would happen if he gave the doctor full permission to “fix” his face. He talks to runway models and meets Karl Lagerfeld (do not miss Rakoff’s snarky comeback to Mr. Lagerfeld’s dismissive comment) on a fashion tour of France. He attends a cryogenics conference and speaks to people who believe in the power of technology more than anything else – including death. David Rakoff doesn’t spare anyone. His critical commentary is sharp and spear like, and he’s a brilliant writer, which makes each line hit its target with devastating accuracy. But he’s not mean-spirited. What makes these essays powerful is what lies behind the spitting rants: the truth is, David Rakoff actually loves human beings – with a big, full, expressive heart – it’s just that he hates to see us acting like spoiled brats.
16. Calls for Entries
Fresh Ground New Works Harbourfront Centre is Canada’s leading centre for contemporary culture, with a history spanning over thirty years, and a well-earned international reputation as a non-profit centre for arts and culture nurturing innovation, exploration and artistic expression in the areas of theatre, dance, literature, music, film, visual arts, new media, fine craft, community arts and diverse cultural representation and celebration. A key component of Harbourfront Centre's mandate has been to champion the creation of new artistic works, providing a platform for innovation, creation and excellence. Recognizing that some of the most creative and fascinating work being produced across the country today is the result of artists working in different ways and through non-traditional collaborations, as part of our 30th anniversary celebrations in 2004, we launched an exciting legacy programme entitled Fresh Ground new works: funding which aims to be the catalyst for new, collaborative artistic creations incorporating more than one discipline or field, to be presented or installed here at Harbourfront. With the generous support of several individual donors and the Imperial Tobacco Canada Arts Fund, Harbourfront Centre has committed $200,000 toward the creation of a total of ten new, collaborative, multi-disciplinary, Canadian works to date. This year, Harbourfront Centre is pleased to issue the third Call for Submissions for Fresh Ground new works with a maximum of five separate projects that will be selected to receive $20,000 each toward their creation and presentation during Harbourfront Centre's 2009/2010 season. For more information please see www.harbourfrontcentre.com/noflash/freshground/index.php
17. Lisa’s List of Websites
Cute with Chris – Okay, I don’t normally do cute, although this issue of the RED letter might be a bit cuter than I am used to! Nonetheless, Chris Leavins is a genius. He puts together weekly pod casts that are smart, funny and political. You must check out his Canadian Kittens vs. American Kittens. It’s great! His reciting song lyric pod casts are pretty funny as well! Podsafe music Network – If you are interested in doing pod casts you might come up with the pain of finding music that you can use. Check out this interesting website that helps you find pod friendly music. ATC-x – As you can tell, I am a bit Artist Trading Card crazy lately. This site helps you find others to swap with. Have fun.
18. Upcoming Performances of InterestMarch 13 to March 15 March 14 March 15 March 17 to March 24 March 19 March 22 March 26 March 27 March 28 March 29
19. Photography by Dave Pijuan-Nomura
20. Last ThoughtOh, Spring! I want to go out and feel you and get inspiration. My old things seem dead. I want fresh contacts, more vital searching. (Emily Carr)
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