By Walter Rutledge
“George Faison is one of my favorite people. Choreographer, director, performer, teacher, activist and cultural icon Faison’s story is larger than life. Throughout his five decades of artistic exploration he has maintained a keen eye, a childlike curiosity and a frolicsome sense of humor; which is reflected through his art and life. This interview was originally posted on May 6, 2016 and was filmed at the Faison Firehouse.”- W. Rutledge
Tony and Emmy Award winning choreographer George Faison will present a new work entitled Kingdom Come at the McDonald’s Gospelfest – Live at Prudential Center (25 Lafayette Street, Newark, NJ) on Saturday May 7th. The ensemble work is an inspiring, and uplifting ballet set to a haunting score of Jerome Olds. Throughout Faison’s career the humanistic quality of his work, and his ability to reach beyond the footlights and touch an audience has become his signature.
The art and craft of choreography extends beyond making steps and creating clever patterns. Choreographers are teachers of movement. They translate the knowledge and skill learned in class, and through practical application create living, moving art. It is during the creative process the dancer and dance maker form a special bond. The dancer becomes the medium, the clay the choreographer molds, pushes, and inevitably shapes into a dance. While the choreographer is the visionary, speaking through the dancer’s body to share his concept with the audience.
O&A NYC Magazine’s Editor in Chief Walter Rutledge discussed the creative process with Faison during his rehearsals of Kingdom Come.
A Conversation with George Faison- The Creative Process
I enjoy this interview.Keep up your wonderful work.