Chen Dance Center presents "Fahu Goes East," a one-man dance/theater work-in-process with KAUILA KANAKA'OLE, May 25 & 26 at 7 PM at the Chen Dance Center in New York's Chinatown. "Fahu Goes East" draws from Kauila's personal journey spanning from Hilo, Hawaii to New York City. Grandson of a legendary Hawaiian family of hula and chant practitioners, Kauila's passion for the art of fashion design propels him east, and through dance, story, unapologetic truths, and irreverent humor, the artist talks about family, fashion, and a search for freedom.
"Fahu Goes East" is co-created by Kauila and
Roberta Uno, who has also directed. Choreography is by Kauila, Pualani Kanahele Kanaka'ole, Kekuhi Kanahele, No'eau Kalima, and "Princess".
The presentation is commissioned by Chen Dance Center for its Ear to the Ground series for Asian-Pacific-American and Native American artists. Artists selected for the series receive a space grant at the Center, a choreographic commission, and public performances at the intimate Chen Dance Center's black box theater.
Established in 1979 by H.T. Chen and Dian Dong, Chen Dance Center has been dedicated to serving the Asian-American community and the New York City dance community. This commitment is demonstrated through arts education at the School, opportunities and production services at the Theater, and a modern dance Company known for moving presentations of Asian-American experiences. CHEN DANCE CENTER strives to introduce a memorable experience that resonates beyond performance. Our mission is to provide moving experiences in Asian-American through contemporary dance through artistic creation, arts education, and presentation. Established in the thriving hub of Chinatown, the organization provides year-round programming to communities in Lower Manhattan through its company, school and theater. It is one of the "Diverse Arts Spaces" supported by the Ford Foundation and was bestowed the New York State Governor's Award for Artistic Excellence and Outstanding Contribution to Communities and the NYC Mayor's Award for Arts & Culture. From 2009-2014, Chen Dance Center completed a series of renovations and expansions.
CHEN DANCE CENTER is supported by: NEW YORK STATE COUNCIL ON THE ARTS, NEW YORK CITY DEPT. OF CULTURAL AFFAIRS, and CreateNYC.
