The Institute of Black Imagination.

Oct 22 2023 75 mins

Today, we have a very special interview with the legendary choreographer and producer, George Faison. In this conversation, George takes us on a journey through his remarkable life, from his early days in Washington, D.C., to his experiences dancing with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, and mostly, and his iconic role as the choreographer of the "The Wiz" on Broadway. For which he won a Tony. Becoming the first Black person to do so.

George shares stories of his encounters with great artists like Maya Angelou and Stevie Wonder and the incredible impact they had on his life. But perhaps the most captivating part of this interview is George's vivid description of creating the Emerald City sequence in "The Wiz." He also shares the role books play in his creative process. For George, it all begins with the archive.

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Things Mentioned

Maya Angelou - an American memoirist, poet, and civil rights activist.

The Wiz - The musical version of "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz"

Dick Gregory - an American comedian, actor, writer, activist and social critic.

Gazelle - George Faison ballet - Dedicated to the Free Spirit in All of Us.

1967 Detroit riot - The 1967 Detroit Riots were among the most violent and destructive riots in U.S. history.

Alvin Ailey - American dancer, director, choreographer, and activist.

American Light Opera Company - semi-professional theatre company performing light operas and musicals in Washington, D.C. from 1960 to 1968.

Suite Otis - Otis Redding's sassy, sizzling music sets the stage for George Faison's playful battle of the sexes.

What to Read

All God's Children Need Traveling Shoes - Maya Angelou

Giovanni's Room - James Baldwin