MEMOIRS OF A MYSTICAL MAROON

Memoirs of a Mystical Maroon, Commissioned by River to River Festival, (New York, NY)

"Memoirs of a Mystical Maroon (rituals for a lost history)," draws its inspiration from Sylviane A. Diouf's impactful book, "Slavery's Exiles." This work serves as a poignant and thought-provoking ritual performance, meticulously crafted to honor and illuminate a forgotten chapter in American history. Sylviane A. Diouf's exploration of the experiences of those exiled during the era of slavery becomes a profound catalyst for this ceremony, urging a reexamination of historical narratives often obscured or marginalized.

As a site-specific piece, "Memoirs of a Mystical Maroon" poetically interweaves hidden historical relics with futuristic visioning. The work is a dynamic exploration shedding light on aspects of an American Black past that have often been relegated to the shadows. The narrative thread of "Memoirs of a Mystical Maroon" gracefully unfolds, revealing not only the pain and adversity but also the resilience, strength, and spirituality that marked the lives of those who navigated those tumultuous waters. The ritualistic nature of the performance introduces an element of sacred reflection, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and honoring the ancestors who paved the way for the generations to come.

"Memoirs of a Mystical Maroon" emerges as a tapestry woven with threads of remembrance, resilience, and revelation. It beckons the audience to engage with the complexities of history and invites them to consider the untapped possibilities that lie in a deeper understanding of the past while exposing the potential for a more enlightened and inclusive future.