David Roussève/Reality's Saudade, a Mix of Theater, Spoken Word and Dance
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts Novellus Theater (700 Howard St. San Francisco, CA 94103)
- Full Price:
- $30.00
- Our Price:
- $15.00*
YBCA presents a new work from David Roussève/REALITY, one of the most important voices to emerge in contemporary American dance in recent history. An ode to those transcendental moments when joy and sorrow collide, Saudade -- a Portuguese word close to "bittersweet" -- is a compelling mix of theater, spoken dialogue, contemporary dance and the movement of Indonesia, India and West Africa.
* Additional fees apply.
All offers for David Roussève/Reality: Saudade have expired.
The last date listed for David Roussève/Reality: Saudade was Saturday March 7, 2009 / 8:00pm.
700 Howard St.
San Francisco,
CA
94103
415-978-ARTS (2787)
Goldstar Member Tips
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michileng on Where to Park
Take bart and walk!
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michileng on What to Wear
Wear whatever you want
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Goldstar Member on Where to Eat
Ybca.org website has list of nearby restaurants for pre-show dining/
5 Goldstar Member Reviews
michileng
There were moments that I loved and moments where I was unsure if I really liked them. This work appealed to all audiences and was entertaining. Although at times it made me uncomfortable, I knew it was an intentional feeling. Sometimes modern dance is too "out there" for me to appreciate, but this show had a structure which I enjoyed watching. The dancers were very talented both technically and dramatically. Overall I liked it.Written on Mar 10 2009
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Freyamur15
I give it 1.5 stars. I agree with the other reviewers. The piece was very abstract and not easy to understand. The segments didn't flow together well enough to make a coherent piece. However, the best moments were David's narrations. He's got a great gift for storytelling and the way that he told the stories were easy for anyone to relate to. I didn't understand the "dancing". I wish the nervous ticks were more clearly expounded on, because no one in my group could figure it out. This story would have been much better as a play.Written on Mar 09 2009
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Goldstar Member
The program notes alluded to exploration of the highest and lowest points on the emotional spectrum of life. The piece ended up being a mixed bag of those moments, with story, music and movement styles from many backgrounds. Maybe they were trying to show that humanity is all the same no matter what our individual stories are? That all cultures express joy and pain?Written on Mar 09 2009
There was an attempt to unify the elements under the umbrella of narrator David's life. But, that felt odd, because why did this one guy have to gather up multicultural elements to tell his story? The conjunction of the materials didn't bring clarity to the message.
Beautiful dancing, compelling stories, moving music and fantastic set backdrop/lighting nonetheless. Much to talk about after the show.
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Goldstar Member
The best part about this performance was the music. It was consistent, deeply moving and absolutely beautiful. Overall, everything and the different components' inter-connection (music, dance, storytelling, theater) could have been tighter and condensed. It was way too long. Though I really enjoyed listening and experiencing the stories told.Written on Mar 09 2009
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More Information About David Roussève/Reality: Saudade
Quotes & Highlights
- "Roussève binds humor and deep poignancy. I beg you all to go and see him, and become better, fuller, richer people.” --Time Out London
Description
Unifying the work is Fado, often called “Portuguese blues,” which expresses the longing of saudade. Equal parts wild humor and grit, Saudade is a rare work of spiritual seeking that connects the African American experience to pressing global issues.