In a world increasingly defined by isolation, the upcoming performance We Have Gone As Far As We Can Together, set to take place from November 1st through the 9th at FringeArts, invites audiences into an intimate exploration of grief, companionship, and the complexities of closure. This production, backed by the Pew Center for Arts & Heritage, is not merely a performance; it is a collective experience that embodies the profound need for connection in today’s fragmented society.
At its core, We Have Gone As Far As We Can Together is inspired by the rich sonic traditions of artists like Alice Coltrane and Sun Ra. The piece is designed to be an immersive, participatory experience where as cast of local musicians (Alexis Marcelo, Anaïs Maviel, Tarus Mateen, and Jade Hicks) collaborate, fostering an environment where each voice contributes to the larger narrative of community healing.
Each performance is crafted as a series of mantras inspired by the Vedic kirtan tradition, initially sung by a small choir embedded within the audience, eventually inviting the full audience to take part. This dynamic encourages a unique energy exchange, creating an evolving atmosphere where each night’s performance is distinct. The intent is not only to entertain but to engage the audience in a shared journey, highlighting the power of collective sound-making as a form of connection and healing.
Helga Davis (center), Charlotte Brathwaite (left), and Sunder Ganglani (right) of the We Have Gone As Far As We Can Together team | photo by Melissa Simpson
“I think a ritual wants or is asking for people to pass through something together,” says project collaborate and dramaturg Sunder Ganglani.
Artist, director, and project collaborator, Charlotte Brathwaite, goes on to say, “And I also think the invitation of this work, calling it, thinking about it as a ritual for letting go, that’s an invitation for the people who are your hosts or performers, however you want to call them. It’s as much an invitation for them as it is for the people who are our guests. We’re all in that [process of letting go together] together.”
As the creators delve into their collective journey, they reflect on the seeds planted back in 2017 and how they have transformed over time. Through the challenges posed by the pandemic and experiences in Senegal, the artists have embraced change and adapted their practice to align with the current climate. The title of the work resonates deeply, echoing the sentiments of letting go and the act of care in the face of growth.
We Have Gone As Far As We Can Together | photo by Melissa Simpson
One of the key elements of this production is the emphasis on creating a welcoming space for all voices. There is an understanding that participation is not a demand but an invitation, allowing audience members to engage as they feel comfortable. This approach challenges the traditional dynamics of performance, fostering an environment where everyone can feel empowered to express themselves freely.
“This is not accidental, there is rigor and people should not be confused about that,” says multidisciplinary artist and project collaborator, Helga Davis. “It is not random. It is chance, but it is not random. And it comes from a rigorous practice. We are not magical people. We are people who come from rigorous upbringings in all the traditions that we bring to this work. Less people think we’re out here just having fun and making things up.”
We Have Gone As Far As We Can Together promises to be more than just a performance; it is an invitation to participate in a shared experience of healing and community. As we navigate the complexities of connection in today’s world, this production reminds us of the importance of coming together, honoring our individual journeys while collectively embracing the transformative power of art and sound. In a time when so many feel disconnected, this work stands as a beacon of hope, encouraging us all to find our voices and celebrate the beauty of togetherness.
As the curtain rises on November 1, audiences can anticipate an experience that resonates long after the final note fades, echoing the sentiment that in unity, we can find strength, healing, and a deeper understanding of ourselves and each other.
We Have Gone As Far As We Can Together opens November 1st and runs through November 9th at FringeArts. Tickets and more information can be found here.