The performance is an hour-long intermingling of five immigrant/refugee stories describing extremely divergent pathways to Lansing. It helps us recognize the creative space and freedom that we can too often take or granted in America. This fascinating piece of theatre allows each refugee/immigrant to tell his/her own story in a well crafted, dramatic way, under the direction of Blake Bowen.
Devices such as shoes, projected photos and maps, dramatic blocking sound and lighting help bring us into the lives of these five: Dilli R. Chapagai from Bhutan, Lana H. King from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Celia Mengran Li from China, Amelia M. Rogocka from England and Yusuf Sultani from Afghanistan. This project was developed with the help of the Lansing Immigrant and Refugee Resource Council.
The stories range from childhood show-biz, to being chased out of the country by the Taliban, to 16 years in a refugee camp to experiencing the bombs of war and more.Folks at the talkback were impressed and touched by the sincere performances of these five.
Other interesting refugee stories in poster form are on display in the Peppermint Creek Lobby - also can be seen at http://refugelansing.us
The Same Moon: Lansing continues through April 21. It was quite full opening night, so reservations would be a good idea.
http://www.peppermintcreek.org