ArtwordBlog

The Nathaniel Dett Chorale is a versatile 20-voice ensemble that tackles a wide range of music, and undertakes interesting explorations in many directions. The common theme is summed up in the term “Afrocentric”. Named for African-American composer R. Nathaniel Dett, the ensemble seeks out music from the African diaspora that is often overlooked — in particular, music written in a formal, “classical” idiom, rather than more popular forms.

I am personally very pleased with the opportunity to hear this repertoire. Under the direction of Brainerd Blyden-Taylor, the choir is clear, tight and eminently tuneful. More »

Twilight Cafe is a savage two-hander, an assembly of bulletins from the never-ceasing male-female war. The script is by Tony Hall, not the English one, but the founder of Lord Street Theatre in Trinidad, director of the unforgettable Jean and Dinah. This time, he is the writer, and the director is Rhoma Spencer, who created the role of Jean in that work. Rhoma has set down roots in Toronto as Founder and Artistic Director of Theatre Archipelago (that’s the Caribbean Archipelago, of course). More »

From: OMO Dance Company-
If you could take a few moments to send us your thoughts on the following questions – it would be greatly appreciated.

1. What role does dance serve in our community?
2. What role does OMO serve in our community?
3. What role do you feel OMO should serve in our community?
4. What would you personally like to see OMO do?
5. Why should someone support the arts?

From: Ronald Weihs

1. What role does dance serve in our community?

I think dance is terribly important. Dancers are highly unusual and strange people, and very special. They should be allowed to work in freedom. They shouldn’t have to spend so much time in school. More »

I was surprised and delighted by the George Walker play, Better Living, at Factory Theatre. Delighted because it was smart, funny and full of surprises, with something important to say. Surprised, because the (few) Walker plays I have seen in the past have seemed heavy-handed, morbid and predictable. That having been my experience, I haven’t always rushed out to see more.

This one was a revelation. More »