Eastman, who died in 1990 aged just 49, is a key figure in late 20th century American music, but was marginalised during his lifetime. A black, gay, contemporary music composer, he lived every aspect of his identity to its fullest. His attitude was a total assault on the status quo. Inspired by his life and legacy, Moving Eastman responds to Mitsuye Yamada’s quote, 'invisibility is not a natural state for anyone', sparking a discussion on who controls the narrative and who tells these stories.
The work embodies his unconventional approach to making art across genres and disciplines in a quest for artistic freedom. The performance is led by Elaine Mitchener with long-time collaborators The Rolling Calf, choreography and concept by director Dam Van Huynh and staging informed by found materials such as images, notes, interviews and sounds.
Supported by the Lucille Graham Trust
Supported using public funding by Arts Council England
Moving Eastman was commissioned by Fruitmarket as part of Deep Time, Fruitmarket’s festival of new music. With further development support from Barbican, Hellerau - Dresden, Musical Utopias - The Hague, Britten Pears Arts, Centre 151 and EMProjects.
Produced by the Barbican
