Keith Odums is a 2015 Beyond Workshop Series student who has participated in the last 4 weeks of classes in dance, Shakespeare and voice. This is what he shared with us about his experience with the program.
VAST GRATITUDE
R.Evolucion Latina is, by far, the preternatural gem of Adult Education for Latino artists andall artists internationally and locally! Gabriela, Luis, Rickey, Jonathan,William, Amanda, Ian, Akiko and all guest artists bring to the workshop space such rich and extensive knowledge.
It’s amazing each instructor has donated their time, talent and training. Their devotion to nurturing artists is unheard of in New York City. I have the opportunity to participate in all three workshops. FREE! Also, a rarity for adult Latino artists and performing artists in New York City.
I, as a person of color, know the challenges of working in the performing arts. One of many challenges is not many opportunities to explore and become more of yourself as an artist. I love that R.Evolución Latina is providing an opportunity for adult Latino artists to grow, learn, and express their uniqueness. I know and believe that through cultural diversity; our human existence by virtue of art animates the spirit miraculously. I believe R.Evolucion Latina understands this, so innately. Their unequivocal enthusiasm everyday of the workshop is infectious.
As I write this, I reflect on today’s experiences in the workshop. It was a very difficult day for me today. I can be the least compassionate person to myself. I want to compare myself to others’ work. This personal challenge is a major reason why I needed R.Evolucion Latina. What helps me, each week and everyday, is the instructors reminding us to work with our individual potential. Reminding us that, our individual uniqueness is why we are here. Our individual uniqueness is what an audience or observer of art wants to see. This consistent intimation keeps me sane, grounded, and germinating. It keeps me in class when I want to run and hide from myself. The environment in each class bolsters my best each hour at that hour. All artists experience a day like I have today. The gift R.Evolucion Latina relinquishes is the opportunity as an artist to practice “getting out of your own way”. I know I will not get an opportunity like this at an audition. I will not get it during a professional contract. At R.Evolucion Latina I have a safe haven to explore and nurture my “artist child”. FREE of charge! This is why R.Evolucion Latinais the preternatural gem of Adult Education for Latino artists and all artists Internationally and locally.
The immeasurable vastness of my gratitude is extended to R.Evolucion Latina!
Keith Odums
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