Eleven Reflections on September: Themes of War & Identity on Stage | Andrea Assaf

"Eleven Reflections on September" is a poignant exploration by Andrea Assaf, a visionary artist whose work bridges storytelling, performance, and political discourse. This ambitious project delves into the Arab-American experience, weaving a narrative that confronts the complexities of identity, war, and the aftermath of September 11. Through a combination of digital film, poetry, and performance, Assaf creates a multifaceted dialogue on the impact of terrorist attacks and the nuanced beauty found in moments of collective mourning and resilience. Assaf's dedication to cultural exchange and the power of narrative is evident in her approach to "Eleven Reflections on September." Drawing from multiple poetic influences, she crafts scenes that are both personal and universal, inviting audiences to reflect on the cyclical nature of history and the enduring spirit of communities in the face of adversity. As the project transitions into a touring show, Assaf's vision for a broader conversation about peace, understanding, and the human condition continues to resonate, marking her as a leading voice in contemporary theatre and cultural dialogue.

0:00 Introduction
01:55 Exploring the Essence of "Eleven Reflections on September"
04:30 The Journey of Producing a Digital Film
06:19 Reflecting on the 2015 Version
09:27 The Process of Writing the Poem
11:21 The Structure: Eleven Poems for Eleven Scenes
12:24 The Initial Rehearsal Phase in 2011
14:33 Drawing Inspiration from Renowned Poets
17:00 Encounters With Surprising Believers of the Project
18:32 The Significance of "Summer Rain"
20:48 The Creative Process Behind the Performance
24:04 The Evolution of the Piece Over Time
25:22 Marking Milestones from 2011 Onwards
28:00 Adapting the Piece for Various Formats
32:27 Managing Ensemble Dynamics
33:49 Navigating Digital Production Challenges
34:43 Conveying Cross-Cultural Notions
37:20 The Decade-Long Journey of the Project
39:07 Recent Performances & Future Plans
41:35 Expanding the Project into a Touring Show
46:10 Audience Q&A Session

Andrea Assaf is a playwright, director, performer, and cultural organizer, who has established herself as a pivotal figure in the arts community, particularly within Arab-American circles. Her work, characterized by its depth and cross-cultural insights, aims to challenge perceptions and foster a deeper understanding of shared human experiences. "Eleven Reflections on September" stands as a testament to her commitment to storytelling as a means of resistance and healing. The project, which began its journey in 2011, has evolved over a decade, adapting to changing contexts and ensembles while maintaining its core message and emotional intensity.

Connect with Andrea Assaf 👉   / andreaassaf_711  

Theme music: Peninsular, Tarek Yamani 🔊 https://spoti.fi/47I59ns

Hosted by:
Mikey Muhanna 👉   / mikey_mu  

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