When I was invited by Jennifer McGregor to conduct a one-year project at Wave Hill, I was overjoyed. It’s a phenomenal opportunity to perform branch dancing in New York City at Wave Hill. New York New York! The Bronx! The old hood! All my friends! I am excited to be able to share Branch Dances @ Wave Hill with you!
AND then there’s my new home, Philadelphia, and the beautiful Wissahickon Woods where the branch dances were born. The NY project provides a structure for developing a similar project at home in Philadephia; hence Wissahickon Reunion. I want to lovingly revisit (on a modest scale) the One Year Wissahickon Project (OYWPP) which moved all who participated. Jumatatu Poe, Shavon Norris, and Olive Prince are back, yay! Toshi Makihara and Noemi Segarra, though not physically present, will be present in our memories. Joining us for the first time are Beau Hancock, Marion Ramirez, and Tigger Benford; and on October 23, Harold Smith with be accompanying us on the didgeridoo.
The first performance of Wissahickon Reunion will be a “fairy” performance; audiences will find us along the path from Mt. Airy Ave to the Mt Airy Avenue bridge. Audiences are encouraged to block out some time to wander along the paths and enjoy a respite from the city. Bring a snack and water, have a picnic! The woods are glorious these days --- the brisk air, the dancing light, and changing leaves, and the wind, make it quite magical. Make sure to wear proper clothing, sun glasses, and walking shoes with grip. The recent rains have caused much erosion and the paths are a bit treacherous. You may want to pick up a walking stick! 
Like OYWPP, Wissahickon Reunion performances will be held Sundays at 10:30AM. Give yourself some time to get lost and found! All performances will be held rain or shine; cancellations only in extreme weather. Audiences should check this blog on the morning of the performances for up to date information.
Photos of OYWPP: Pepon Osorio
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