i call him. he[R] is a collaborative choreographic installation cataloguing the crosscurrent pressures of black male masculinity and the identity politics of black gay men. Acknowledging sexuality as the medium by which we associate maleness, this work highlights how social behaviors both align and color outside the lines of heteronormative standards of masculinity. Okwae A. Miller & Artists will design an interactive movement performance by referencing notable sources such as the American documentary Paris Is Burning; a compilation of narratives from the text Black Gay Man: Essays by Robert Field; and the research study Black Male Masculinity Matters in Attitudes toward Gay Males by scholars Anthony J. Lemelle, Jr., PhD and Juan Battle, PhD. This experience will also advocate health and wellness, and intersect the impact of individuals infected with HIV/AIDS.
In collaboration with lighting designer Noah Hill and sound technician Daniel Scoggins; Okwae A. Miller have rendered a contemporary "ballroom"' experience in a succulent evening-length trio of dancers that will activate both audience interaction and migration . The movement will transcribe and highlight the diverse spectrum of representations of social identities and gender roles, by which members of our community categorize themselves, from hyper-masculine men to transgender women. Additionally, this work investigates the social anthropology of how heterosexism informs social behaviors and internal relationships within the black gay community.
I call him.he[R] will premiere at The Bakery Atlanta on November 16, 17 +18, 2018 at 7:30.
The production of i call him. he[R] is supported through Fulton County Arts Council, AID Atlanta, SPARKrj NOW! and our gracious patrons.