Gogue Center introduces Global Perspectives conversation series with inaugural season artists

The Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center at Auburn University will introduce its new Global Perspectives conversation series beginning Jan. 30. The four-event series will feature artists from the center’s 2019–20 inaugural season lineup in facilitated, in-depth discussions with Auburn students, faculty and the community. Participating artists will address the origins and exchange of various global art forms, particularly those of the African diaspora and the American South, and discuss their own works and influences.

“Global Perspectives is designed to spur meaningful community engagement with influential musicians and artists that goes beyond the ticketed performance,” said Amy Miller, Gogue Center director of programming and education. “We invite the community to take part in these important discussions on music, dance, history and social justice that celebrate and promote cross-cultural understanding.”

The series joins the center’s robust schedule of education and community programs, including pre-show artists talks, master classes, workshops, lecture demonstrations and a school performance series for regional K-12 students. Miller said these initiatives are meant to engage and enlighten audiences while fostering innovative research and scholarship in the arts.

Dates and descriptions for each Global Perspectives conversation are as follows:

Jan. 30: “Visualizing Music Through Movement” with Dorrance Dance

Company members from Dorrance Dance join Ernest L. Gibson III, Auburn associate professor of English and co-director of Africana Studies, for a conversation on the unique history of tap and influences such as movement forms of the African diaspora, Irish rhythmic dance and jazz. The group will also examine various perspectives on cultural identity and expression and discuss how tap and rhythmic dance are completely connected to music and movement. 


Feb. 20: “Exploring Creole History and Heritage” with Terrance Simien and The Zydeco Experience

Two-time Grammy Award winner Terrance Simien and Evelyne Bornier, Auburn associate professor and undergraduate director of French, discuss influences that contribute to zydeco music. The pair will discuss Creole and Mardi Gras culture and history, as well as how zydeco is important to the historical and current movement of music around the world. 


April 6: “Dialoguing Through Rhythm” with Alfredo Rodríguez and Pedrito Martinez

Internationally acclaimed pianist Alfredo Rodríguez and percussionist Pedrito Martinez address the elements incorporated in their music and the influences that have made Cuban music a global powerhouse. 


April 17: “Creating Community and Honoring Legacy” with Camille A. Brown and Dancers

Artistic director and award-winning choreographer Camille A. Brown discusses various elements, movement forms and traditions that influence her work and choreographic style. She will also discuss how her artistic process deeply connects ancestral stories and history to contemporary culture.

For more information on the Gogue Center’s Global Perspectives series, contact Christina Ganus, campus and community programs manager, at cnm0005@auburn.edu.

All Global Perspectives events will take place at the Gogue Center the evening before each artist’s scheduled season performance. The series is free and open to the public. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m., and presentations begin at 6 p.m. An informal question-and-answer session will follow to allow audience members the opportunity to further engage with visiting artists on topics related to the presentation. Light refreshments will be served.