Mercy (2019)
Choreography: Ronald K. Brown
Original Music: Meshell Ndegeocello
The Equality of Night and Day: First Glimpse
Choreography: Ronald K. Brown
Original Music: Jason Moran
Upside Down (1998)
Choreography: Ronald K. Brown
Music: Oumou Sangare and Wunmi
Founded by Ronald K. Brown in 1985 and based in Brooklyn, New York, EVIDENCE, A Dance Company focuses on the seamless integration of traditional African dance with contemporary choreography and spoken word. Through work, EVIDENCE provides a unique view of human struggles, tragedies, and triumphs. Brown uses movement as a way to reinforce the importance of community in African American culture and to acquaint audiences with the beauty of traditional African forms and rhythms. The Equality of Night and Day, a new work by Brown and EVIDENCE will make its Mondavi Center debut alongside Mercy (2019) and Upside Down (1998).
The Equality of Night and Day examines the concepts of balance, equity and fairness. Initially inspired by John Coltrane’s “Equinox,” Brown assembled a remarkable team of collaborators to create the piece: an original score from pianist and composer Jason Moran; spoken word elements from poet and activist Angela Davis; a photographic display projected on stage curated by Deborah Willis; costumes designed by Omotayo Wunmi Olaiya, who has collaborated with Brown since 1995; and scenic and lighting design by Evidence’s technical director Tsubasa Kamei.
The presentation of The Equality of Night and Day: First Glimpse was made possible by the New England Foundation for the Arts' National Dance Project, with lead funding from the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation and The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation.
