Julius Eastman (1940-1990) was a proudly Gay, Black American composer, pianist, and five-octave vocalist. Eastman’s music wove together avant-garde experimentation and the rigors of the western classical tradition, the pulse of dance music and the freedom of jazz. After hard times and an eviction, many of his scores were lost or destroyed, and Eastman died in relative obscurity at the young age of 49.
One of Eastman’s most joyful works, Femenine begins with a gentle call of bells and vibraphone. Six Black and Brown performers softly emerge, gestures of touch build into flowing phrases of affirmation, partnering and playful vignettes. Three performers morph into “Healers”, donning heels to dance with power and authority. Solidarity is built through joyful steps of celebration and rhythm. Femenine’s theme gradually resolves as reverence is paid to the self, community, the audience, and guiding ancestors
Caretakers of the Land/Land Acknowledgement: Land of the Munsee Lenape Peoples
Estimated Artist Fee: Single performance (3 day tour) - $19,000 - $21,000; 2 Performances (5 day tour) - $22,000 - $24,000; 3 or more Performances (6-7 day tour) - $25,000 - $30,000
Available for Post-Performance Q+As, open tech rehearsals + community engagements; fee does not include travel or lodging