Photo by Faern, www.faernworks.com
Do you know about butoh? It's an avant-garde dance form, originating in Japan, that is conceptual and often referred to as psychodrama. It has a powerful aesthetic, and is exceedingly difficult to describe because it nearly defies definition. Google the word - thousands of images and articles will give you a sense of its spirit.
Photo by Mike Estee, www.mikeestee.com
The two photos above and the one below come from the butoh-inspired dance troupe, Bad Unkl Sista. Well, 'dance troupe' is not an accurate description, really. They are a performance installation ensemble, to use their own words. And their 2012 butoh performance of First Breath, Last Breath in San Francisco was incredibly strong and profound.
Anastazia Louise Aranaga is the artistic director for Bad Unkl Sista, and has developed her own unique style of movement. When you leave one of the performances she's created, love it or hate it, you will leave feeling somehow changed by the experience.
And here's a little something, a bit sad and also joyful: Anastazia moved earlier this year to Nevada City, where her workshops, classes, and life continue on. I'm sorry she's gone from our beautiful city by the bay, but I'm wishing her greater abundance and joy in her new location. She is an inspirational art animal who sings and beckons to all of us.
Follow Bad Unkl Sista on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to stay on top of classes (if you're brave), performances (please go to at least one in your lifetime), and to immerse yourself in something quite magical, mysterious, and primal.
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