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
Femenine is a 70-minute full-evening program. It can also be paired with the other two works in KMC’s Julius Eastman Trilogy—Gay and Joan—over two performances. KMC seeks to engage local community, students and artists through engagements that can include: post-show Q+As, open tech rehearsals, community classes, lectures or thematic community conversations. Guest teaching/workshops with local college, high school, and studio dance programs is welcomed.
Artist Fees: KMC embraces a flexible touring and community engagement model for Femenine and all of our repertory. All rates are negotiable. Below are suggested rates and a sample of touring options.
- 1 day tour // negotiable (lecture demonstration, master class or repertory workshop)
- 1-2 day tour // $15,000 (in-studio or “worklight” showing + teaching residency)
- 3-4 day tour // $25,000 (1 full production performance + community engagements)
- 7-5 day tour // $32,000 (2-4 full production performances + community engagements)
- 8+ day tour // $35,000+ (4+ full production performances + company residency)
Live music is optional + not included in this rate; fee does not include travel or lodging
