Inspiring work from Degenerate Art Ensemble

Saw some inspiring work last evening from Seattle-based Degenerate Art Ensemble at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts in SF. The piece entitled "Predator Songstress" creates a dystopian multi-media experience using powerful video, live music, dance, stage and sound design and audience participation. The work deals with the "stealing of women's voices" and the persecution by a violent authoritarian state for crimes against humanity such as getting to know your neighbors, observing human activity, basic communication.  There is much to say here and more to be found about the group which formed when music students Joshua Kohl and Haruko Crow Nishimura met at New England Conservatory of Music in 1989 (just a short while after Miguel and Paul met at Berklee up the street).  But most inspiring was the groups beautiful use of staging and exquisite ensemble work to tell a story with highly technical media components.  In short, I am inspired and enriched and I hope we can make great art this year as well now that the album is finished and coming to you.