Children's/School Series
The Voices of Native America children's performances is a one hour presentation, scaled down from the 18 member troupe performance. Featuring Gayle Ross, Rob Greyhill, and Douglas Spotted Eagle, this performance begins with a contemporary introduction with all 3 principals onstage. With Rob drumming and singing, Gayle sharing percussion, and Douglas on flute, it makes for a striking introduction against the beautifully painted scrim. The opening piece is augmented by 20 foot video of ancient images of traditional Native America project on the scrim. As the performance is presented in 4 parts, "We Dance", "We Honor Our Children", "We Pray", and "We Live", Rob takes the second piece in a Northern Style Fancy Dance. Gayle is then introduced with a traditional story of dance.
"We Honor Our Children" is demonstrated by having approximately 20 audience members join Rob, Gayle, and Douglas on stage for a lesson in traditional drumming. As Douglas teaches drumming, and dispels myths generated by Hollywood films, Rob selects audience members to participate in a dancing lesson. Soon, all of the drummers are drumming for all of the dancers.
Utilizing the Pueblo Hoop Dance, solo flute, and stories, the cast shares the special meaning of Prayer with the audience. In the Hoop Dance, children are encouraged to recognize their relationship with all things found in this earth. Often the children clap with the drums, providing a strong rhythm for Rob's feet.
Gayle also shares stories relating to children speaking to the environment, and knowing that they must care for all that is around them.
Finally, all of the performers again take the stage together, performing "Closer to Far Away", mixing dance, poetry, large screen visual image, and music for the final piece.
Flute, Dance, and Storytelling workshops are also available in the children's school series.
Equipment/Technical requirements: