Celebrate MoCo native and “modern jazz icon in the making” (All About Jazz) Allison Miller as she takes the Music Center at Strathmore’s stage on Friday, February 10. Her immersive, multimedia performance, Rivers in Our Veins combines original jazz music with tap and contemporary dance—it also features Maleek Washington, who started his professional career with local CityDance Conservatory. The performers are accompanied by improvisational video projections inspired by the sights, sounds, and movements of five US rivers, including the Potomac. What results is a balanced, multimedia experience that unifies the senses and fully immerses the audience into the wonders of these great American waterways.
MOCO Show fans can see the show for $20 off with promo code MOCO20.
Miller’s love for nature and waterways began during her childhood, which she often spent hanging out by the creek at the back of her parents’ farm in Olney. Her internal love and longing for nature persists, and she makes it a priority to spend time seeking answers and respite on the banks of her favorite rivers.
“I would not be the artist I am today if it had not been for MCPS’s commitment to the arts in education,” says Miller. “Sherwood High School provided a healthy and robust environment for me to learn, practice, and put my craft to work. Coming up through the MCPS system provided me the opportunity to learn from the best teachers on the planet, including Ron Kearns, Bill Evans, Joe Reiff, Judy Adler Reiff, Marcia Massey, and Warren Crutchfield.” Miller’s career has led her to be named Jazz Ambassador for the US Department of State three times, and she has been the rhythmic force behind such artists as Sara Bareilles, Ani DiFranco, Natalie Merchant, Brandi Carlile, Indigo Girls, Toshi Reagon, and more.
Miller’s time with Strathmore included a residency with students and artists from the DMV area on January 24, including interviews with river experts. She will also be conducting a music workshop for her alma mater, Sherwood High School, February 8 in Olney, MD. The evening of the performance also includes a pre-concert talk at 6:30pm with local riverkeepers from the Anacostia Watershed Society, Potomac Riverkeeper Network (PRKN), and Groundwork Anacostia River DC.
When asked what she looks forward to during her time in Montgomery County, Miller said, “I make it a priority to drive along Batchellors Forest Road, taking in all the beautiful old homes, the old horse farm, the lush forest, and the overgrown corn fields. This is home to me.”
MOCO Show fans can see the show for $20 off with promo code MOCO20.
This program is part of a multi-year examination of the environment through artistic expression and is made possible, in part, through the generous support Kathleen Knepper. Commissioned by Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation.
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