NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Learn more about the history and culture of both Islam and Christianity and the efforts of a prominent dance choreographer to bring the two faiths closer together at the next InsideOut of the Lunch Box discussion Nov. 20 at War Memorial Auditorium.
Abdel Salaam, artistic director and founder of New York’s Forces of Nature Dance Theatre Company, and Richard McGregor, a Vanderbilt assistant professor of religious studies, will explore the harmony and dissonance between Islam and Christianity as shown in Salaam’s latest choreographic work, "Eclipsed Chapters of the Crescent and the Cross." In addition, African and classical ballet dance excerpts from Salaam’s timely work will be performed during this downtown event sponsored by Vanderbilt and the Tennessee Performing Arts Center.
"Through our artistic visions, we may help heal some of these ancient wounds by creating works that could move us forward into a safer, healthier millennium where, like an eclipse, the darkness is only temporary as it always yields to the emergence of light," Salaam has stated about his work. For more than 20 years Salaam has focused on the culture, history and legends of the African diaspora, and his work has received critical acclaim on four continents.
A box lunch will be provided free of charge to the first 300 people who sign up. Others are welcome as space permits. To reserve a lunch, call 322-8585 or e-mail tpac@vanderbilt.edu. Donations will be accepted at the door, and a portion of the proceeds will be given to The Village Cultural Arts Center.
The InsideOut of the Lunch Box series, presented by Vanderbilt@TPAC@Vanderbilt@TPAC, seeks to provide a glimpse of the performing arts, artists and the artistic process from the inside out.
Media contact: Ann Mare Deer Owens, (615) 322-NEWS
Annmarie.owens@vanderbilt.edu