We are a new arts collective comprised of Juilliard-trained artists who want to make fundraising events exciting. This month, we are working with an organization called The Open Door, which provides over 500 immigrants in NYC training in English, to bring an exciting opening performance to their Spring fundraising event on April 29th. As the founder of this ensemble, my family name is written on Ellis Island. I am myself a descendant of Italian immigrants. I have an immense respect for people who have the courage and resilience to find a new home in a foreign country.
We are going to approach our collaboration with The Open Door in a project that consists of music, dance, and spoken word. We are going to write a spoken word piece in English that explores the idea of immigration. Utilizing the training some of our members have as actors in the Drama division of the school, we are going to coach students from The Open Door to not just recite the spoken word, but perform it. Music composed, performed, and recorded uniquely for this project will support the performances of the spoken word; involving elements of jazz improvisation. Our choreographer will lead students in expressing the meaning of the poetry with fun, lighthearted group choreography that builds camaraderie and community. Ideally, this will be filmed in 2 separate spaces: one to capture the spoken word performances and the other to capture the group choreography. In this 360 immersive room, we could film the spoke word performances in a space that would also work to tell each person's story through photos and other media that helps to share their story. The choreography will be filmed in a big, open space and surrounded by our jazz musicians. The improvising musicians will play as the students are led through choreography. This footage will primarily be used as supportive material to the spoken word performance. As a composite, we hope to put the work of the organization on full display: celebrating the abilities of these ESL students.
Peerspace is on a mission to bring people together. We believe it is impossible to achieve that goal unless we also fight for equality and access to resources in the communities we serve.
Having a space to gather, create, and exchange ideas is an important part of any movement. In order to magnify voices that are often quieted, Peerspace will sponsor venues for people who challenge prejudice and fight for social justice and equality.
Each quarter, we will sponsor space for three projects that are relevant to our community. These projects can range from fundraisers and educational initiatives to art exhibits and photo series.
