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This wide-ranging collection of essays explores various milestones and landmarks of American music, theatre, dance--and life in general. From Elvis Presley to Kabuki, from dance to destruction, Blank dissects how culture, society and politics have intersected--sometimes for the better, often not. The title essay, written after the events of October 7, 2023, looks back on a three-month residency in Ramallah in 2013 and how this insight and experience has shaped Blank's understanding of both art and conflict. Blank's long career as a working artist in multiple sectors lends this collection a unique authority and searing insight that is both refreshing and much needed. In addition, in an exclusive interview with her partner Ishmael Reed, Blank explains how a curious young Jewish woman from Pittsburgh developed into a committed and eloquent public intellectual.
About the author
Carla Blank has distinguished herself as a dancer, choreographer, author, director, dramaturge, teacher, editor, journalist, and Jazz musician (violinist). Author or editor of five books, she has collaborated with choreographers such as Robert Wilson and Suzushi Hanayagi. She has directed plays and multimedia performances the United States, China, and West Bank Palestinian cities. Her articles have appeared in publications including The Wall Street Journal, the San Francisco Chronicle, and El Paï s (Spain). Carla Blank lives in Oakland.
