The Bootstrap Program

“..is RMK’s initiative to engage foster youth in the performing arts.”

Although only the second half of this “Bootstrap Tales” program February 23-25, at San Francisco's Yerba Buena Center, was inspired by the ideas, thoughts, and music of the youth involved, it gave direction to the program as a whole.

Robert Moses' Kin danced “Bootstrap Tales” in five parts two a score identified by names familiar to the young audience on various social media, (e.g. “Violin Solo” by Ella Inglebert, Facebook.)

There were surprising selections, e.g. “Silent Night” (by Jamal Corey), the Xmas song. A long slow group movement which stayed on the floor throughout, provided the base theme. An old torch song “Georgia,” was also portrayed, the booking information for the singer (Mr. Rob Bass) was provided. The dance imagery primarily displayed the need for contact, intimacy and the expansive movement that this company can execute so well.

The first part of the program included “Speaking Ill of the Dead” (2006), “Trapdoors/Trickbags’ Painted Corners “(Excerpt) 2017), and “Lucifer’s Prance” (Revival) (2000). “Trapdoors,” was a solo for the beautiful Crystaldawn Bell. She stretched, exuded a romantic range of movement.

“Speaking Ill…” for four men and four women all dressed in black, was a tightly knit adventure in close entanglement. “Lucifer’s Prance,” was a frenetic response to Philip Glass’ music displaying big leaps, jumps, expansive movement of all kinds and marvelous use of space.

The company members are Norma Fong (who deserves special recognition for her role in “Bootstrap Tales,” Crystaldawn Bell, Vincent Chavez, Bryon Roman, Clarissa Das, Keryn Breterman-Loader, Alivia “Liv” Schaffer, Khala Brannigan, Cora Cliburn, Lwnanda Dutyulwa and Lindokuhle “Odwa” Makanda. The last two gentlemen are listed as “guest artists” from South Africa. They added their special skills and expansive energy to the program.

Cora Cliburn and Vincent Chavez in "Bootstrap Tales."