FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
[Baton Rouge, July 26th, 2023] – Mama’s Gun, the groundbreaking dance performance work commissioned by the Power Coalition for Equity and Justice, will make its highly anticipated premiere at the Manship Theater in Baton Rouge on July 28-29, 2023 at 7:30 PM, with a reception preceding at 6:00 pm. Friday’s performance and reception are free and open to the public, 100 tickets are available at the box office by mentioning Power Coalition. Seating is limited. Created by choreographer and dance scholar, Roxi Victorian, this thought-provoking piece explores the complexities of motherhood within the Black community, shedding light on the experiences of mothers who have lost their children to racial and other forms of violence and discrimination.Originally conceived as a one-woman show examining the emotional and physical labor of mothering from infancy to adulthood, Mama’s Gun has evolved into a full-length performance for the concert stage. Victorian’s artistic vision encompasses a fusion of dance genres, including concert dance, poetry, hip-hop, cathartic movement connectivity, and visual storytelling. With a cast of six dancers, two live DJs, and mixed visual media, the performance promises to be a captivating and immersive experience.
The journey of Mama’s Gun began at the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge, where it premiered as part of the Healing History arts collaboration and art exhibit from January to February 2022. The work underwent further development during Victorian’s residency as a Social Impact artist at the John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts in February 2022.
The Power Coalition for Equity and Justice recognized the transformative power of Mama’s Gun and commissioned Victorian, in collaboration with Nyama Contemporary Dance Company, to present the complete work. This partnership aims to inspire audiences to consider motherhood as a catalyst for social change and to emphasize the importance of community support in three key areas: Mothering for Social Change, Black Maternal Health, and Maternal Mental Health (MMH).
Mothering for Social Change highlights the role of intentional mothering in promoting equity and anti-racist practices within homes and communities. By embracing motherhood as an action and active undertaking, Mama’s Gun encourages interpersonal community relations that can drive positive and equitable social change.
The work also sheds light on the alarming disparities in Black Maternal Health, where the United States has the highest maternal mortality rate among developed nations. Louisiana, in particular, experiences four times the maternal mortality rate for Black women compared to White women. Victorian’s collaboration with the Power Coalition seeks to illuminate these disparities and promote reproductive justice and equitable healthcare access.
Furthermore, Mama’s Gun addresses the pressing issue of Maternal Mental Health (MMH). With approximately 1 in 5 women experiencing MMH conditions during or after pregnancy, it is crucial to foster mindful mental health practices and provide community support. The performance actively supports local engagements and initiatives through a partnership with Conscious Moms, Baton Rouge, focusing on raising awareness of MMH disparities and providing resources for affected mothers.
In addition to the powerful stage production, Mama’s Gun offers “Sister Sharing” workshops, which serve as safe spaces for mothers in local communities. These workshops incorporate mindfulness, somatic exercises, and discussions on mothering and race relations, promoting racial healing and intentional mothering for change.
Mama’s Gun is a transformative artistic experience that unites dance, music, and storytelling to illuminate the triumphs and challenges faced by Black mothers. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness this extraordinary work as it premieres at the Manship Theater on July 28-29, 2023. Friday’s reception and performance is free and open to the public, Saturday’s performance tickets are $30 per person. For ticket information for Saturday’s performance and further details visit Manship Theatre’s website.
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About Roxi Victorian:
Roxi Victorian is an esteemed choreographer and dance scholar renowned for her innovative and socially impactful works. With a deep commitment to addressing social justice issues through the art of dance, Victorian’s choreography has garnered critical acclaim and touched the hearts of audiences worldwide.
About the Power Coalition for Equity and Justice:
The Power Coalition for Equity and Justice is a leading organization dedicated to advancing equity, justice, and empowerment for marginalized communities. Through advocacy, education, and collaboration, the Power Coalition strives to create a society where everyone has equal opportunities and representation.