In Progress
Carissa is currently creating MIXED BODY, a new work that is to premiere at Highways Performance Space and Gallery on March 29th and 30th of 2019 as part of "Best of" New Shoes. As an ode to her multicultural heritage and upbringing, Mixed Body will be the first of a new series of works that Carissa will bring to stage.
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Watch the promo video:​
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From Carissa:
Mixed Body is a very personal piece to me, and is, by far, the most truthful I have every been as a choreographer. As a multiracial person in America, feeling comfortable in my body and in my roots was always a challenge. Being part Pacific Islander, Hispanic, and Middle Eastern, I never quite fit into a "category," and thus always struggled to find acceptance within a society that has valued the separation and segregation of peoples well throughout history. Though it was a more obvious and blunt distance in the past, discrimination manifests quietly now. But it is very much still alive.
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Initially, the goal of this project was to raise the audience's awareness of themselves, culture, and society. But now, I invite you to see through my eyes. Through the eyes of a child of two immigrants. Through the eyes of someone who never found their "category." Feel what I feel, and understand that even though we are different, we are still the same.
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COLLABORATORS
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Director and Choreographer
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Composer
Misaq Eshaghi
(with additional sound design by Carissa Songhorian)
Lighting Design
Briana Pattillo
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Performers/Collaborators
Kate Coleman, Joan H. Padeo, Alan Perez
As funding for this process is limited, any contribution towards the making of Mixed Body would be much appreciated. Costs for weekly rehearsal space, dancer and collaborator fees, costumes, and video and photography add up quickly and we need your help to bring this work to fruition! Please donate today and help support the creation of art in Los Angeles. THANK YOU!
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Check out our Kickstarter.