Earth Songs invites audiences to consider the role of human activity on the environment. With a unique blend of dance and storytelling, the piece features the creation story of Skywoman, the extinction of the Carolina Parakeet, the life of a Polyphemus moth, and the heroic efforts of the SC Sea Turtle Rescue Center.
Integrating social studies, science, and dance, the work challenges us to learn from the past and envision a future of sustainable coexistence. Applicable for grades PreK-5th, the work and corresponding curriculum is available below and can also be scheduled for a live performance and residency.
Earth Songs is made possible by the Cities of Charleston and North Charleston Lowcountry Quarterly Arts Fund, the Joanna Foundation, the John and Susan Bennett Memorial Fund of the Coastal Community Foundation, the Post and Courier Foundation, and the South Carolina Arts Commission.
Skywoman
Excerpted from Turtle Island: The Story of North America’s First People, this vignette explores Skywoman, a creation story shared by many indigenous people. In the story, animals dive into the mud to create the North American continent. Our version highlights animals specific to the Lowcountry, some of which are endangered or extinct.
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The Carolina Parakeet
The Carolina Parakeet was a small green parrot similar to a sun conure. It was one of only three parrot species native to the US and plentiful in South Carolina. Hunting and deforestation led to their extinction as well as their flocking behavior which made them easy to hunt.
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Sweetgrass
Coming Soon
The Moth
Based on an essay by Anne Dillard in Pilgrim at Tinker’s Creek, The Moth follows the story of a child who stumbles upon a polyphemus moth cocoon which is stored in a classroom jar. This story of common curiosity focuses on unintentional harm caused by human activity.
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The Loggerhead Turtle
This vignette focuses on rare and endangered species in South Carolina and the heroic efforts of the Sea Turtle Rescue Center at the South Carolina Aquarium to rehabilitate injured Loggerhead Turtles.
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The Ending
Coming Soon
Contact Us To Learn More Or To Schedule A Dance Residency