[IN RESPONSE] streams March 5–14

A cabaret of electrifying music and dance collides with powerful spoken word performance in the Cornell College production of [IN RESPONSE], streaming March 5–14. 

Conceived and directed by Associate Professor of Theatre and Dance J. West, [IN RESPONSE] offers a provocative and deeply personal reflection on the events of 2020, through the original spoken word performance and dance and music from the ’80s to today. 

“It’s funny, silly, provocative, in-your-face fierce, deeply personal and honest,” said West. “Last December, we began working with a blank piece of paper and the idea to respond to the events of the last 12 months,” said West. 

Rated PG, this production was written by the ensemble and choreographed by Musical Theatre Dance Artist in Residence Eddie Forehand. Janelle Lauer provided musical direction. 

Working with a guest creative collaborator Heather ‘Byrd’ Roberts, a Chicago-based poet and Cornell alumna, the ensemble explored and generated original writing, then worked with Lauer and Forehand to choose music and set choreography. The result is a thought-provoking, poignant, and hope-filled response to the year that was.

Viewing is free, but registration is required for both streaming and the March 6, 7 p.m. CST virtual talk-back with the ensemble and Heather ‘Byrd’ Roberts. For registration information, go to crnl.co/watch. 

This production is intended for mature audiences and contains coarse language and mature topics.