Spirit Moves examines the power of story and storytelling in guiding our lives and counseling us through life’s challenges. Spirit Moves brings stories to life through spoken word, song, and dance. We all have stories that are special to us, stories that we share, stories that we hold dear, that made us who we are today.  In this story, Gladys wants to leave her family something to remember and keep with them through life’s trials.  Before she dies, she teaches her grandchild a valuable lesson in hopes that lesson will reveal itself to her son.  Spirit Moves is a community opera.  Made with and partnering with a local community. – In Series

Composer: Dr. Timothy Amukele

Librettist: Jarrod Lee

Choreographer/Movement Director: Shawna Williams

Music Director: Dr. Elizabeth Hill

Cast: Gladys/Jihanna Davis (mezzo), Freddie/Dustin Praylow (dancer), Jerry/Daniel Smith (baritone), Lisa/Shawna Williams (dancer), Baby Girl/Darryl Lillian Johnson (actor/singer/dancer)

Commissioned by In Series in partnership with Friends of Oxon Run and DC Department of Parks and Recreation

In Series / Associate Artistic Producer: Corinne Hayes