2022 Afrikana Independent Film Festival

Performance as Practice

Expired September 30, 2021 4:00 PM
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We are a reflection of nature. Nature is a reflection of us. Together, we tell the story of the one. Nature is full of wisdom if we are observant and listen. In 2018, TAHLEQUAH, the orca also known as J35, took a 1,000-mile “tour of grief.” With support from fellow members in her clan, TAHLEQUAH pushed her deceased 400lb infant through the Pacific Northwest for 17 days. In this adaptation, TAHLEQUAH is assisted by her ancestors and forces of nature on an emotional excavation and untethering. The harmonizing and renewal she experiences is worthy of the visibility of her vulnerability. DANCE OF THE ORCAS is the reminder we all need to cry the river in order to find freedom in our truth.

  • Year
    2021
  • Runtime
    32:17
  • Language
    English
  • Country
    United States
  • Director
    Roy Petersen and Omiyemi (Artisia) Green
  • Screenwriter
    Omiyemi (Artisia) Green
  • Producer
    William & Mary Theatre, The Studio for Teaching and Learning, The Program in Africana Studies, Christopher Newport University Theatre, and Omiwerx
  • Cast
    Audrey Bucknor as Tahlequah/Vocals; Tamiah McClary as Yemọja; Taylor Hayes as Ọya; Kiana Green as Wise Woman/Orca Dancer; Meagan Morrison as Wise Woman/Orca Dancer; Bryson Olivio as Orca Dancer; Iyanifa Ejanla Omilana Fayemi Akanbi on Vocals; Tyneka L. Flythe on Vocals
  • Cinematographer
    K. Michael O'Neal
  • Editor
    Roy Petersen