Xenogenesis Suite: A Multi-Arts Exploration

By Nicole Mitchell

Presented by
Center for Black Music Research

In collaboration with
Columbia College Chicago Department of Music and
Chicago Sinfonietta

Thursday, June 19
7:30 p.m.
Concert Hall, Columbia College Department of Music
1014 South Michigan Avenue
Chicago

Featuring
Solo dance by choreographer Margaret Morris
Experimental video by Floyd Webb
Display of art works by Krista Franklin

Black Earth Ensemble
Mankwe Ndosi, vocals
Justin Dillard, piano
Tomeka Reid, cello
David Boykin, saxophone
Nicole Mitchell, flute
David Young, trumpet
Arveeayl Ra, percussion
Marcus Evans, drums

Xenogenesis Suite is a multi-arts work inspired by the book Dawn by science fiction author Octavia Butler. In addition to the performance, the event will feature a panel discussion and an art exhibition.

Xenogenesis Suite is of interest to diverse audiences, including those who are interested in science fiction, music, experimental video, visual art, dance, and African-American culture. It was commissioned by Chamber Music America’s New Works Creation and Presentation program, generously funded by the Doris Duke Foundation.

Nicole Mitchell is a creative flutist, composer, and bandleader. She is co-president of the AACM, founder of the critically acclaimed Black Earth Ensemble and Black Earth Strings, and a member of the Center for Black Music Research’s New Black Music Repertory Ensemble and the Chicago Sinfonietta.

Tickets
Tickets will be required, although the performance will be free and open to the public. Tickets will be available only on the day of the performance, beginning at 6:00 p.m. at the performance venue. First come, first served; seating is limited.

The Black Earth Ensemble’s performance is supported in part with funding from the Illinois Arts Council.

"With her stellar Black Earth Ensemble in tune with her vision, Mitchell has composed a suite that is as harrowing as it is beautiful." –Brad Walseth in JazzChicago.net

"Mitchell transposes Butler's words into an abstract sonic travelogue. Breathlessly vivacious and boldly creative, it is Mitchell's most experimental and challenging release to date." –Troy Collins in AllAboutJazz.com