7 small dances for 7 new ancestors. When we think of the ones who came before us, sometimes we are speaking of the ancient distant ones and collective community teachings. But the "new ancestors" also shared teachings. "Ancestor Dances" is inspired by the tales, movements, habits and gestures of 7 of my recently deceased ancestors. The dance is a translation of their adventures, iconic advice and wisdom phrases into choreography. It is my way to remember them, to honor them and to share their stories with the world. Due to COVID-19 I found myself without access to space, dancers and performance venues. I began creating this work in a studio, but ended up finishing it at home, outside and in the woods. I realized the different and imperfect dynamic spaces also lent themselves to the different ancestors I was dancing - their differing personalities, backgrounds and experiences. The idea of furthering the expression of separate individuals and times through filters and angles occurred to me. All of these things pointed towards sharing work in a digital format.

Artistic Direction, Choreography, Dance:
Maura García (she)

Music:
Mark Gabriel Little (he) - "Ancestors" & "Carib"
Bessie Smith - "Me and My Gin"
DJ Spicy Ketchup (he)- "Road Road Road" & "WFH"

Filmed on traditional Osage and Occaneechi Saponi homelands on Amayetli