Capstone Performance Gallery
La Revue de Josephine Baker: A Contemporary Perspective on the Performer and Activist's Life
Choreographed and Directed by Fiona Scruggs
October 25, 2018
I do not own the rights to this music. This is for educational purposes.
Videography: Radford University Department of Dance
Capstone Performance Gallery
A photographic timeline of the biographical performance honoring the life, career, and legacy of Josephine Baker.
"Leaving St. Louis"
Choreography by Fiona Scruggs
Depicts the early life of Josephine Baker growing up in St. Louis in the early 1900s and the East St. Louis Race Riots of 1917.
"France: The Fairyland Place"
The following three pieces ("French Cancan," "Hula Hoops Galore," and "The Cabaret") illustrate the colorful, energetic, and flamboyant atmosphere of the cabaret scene of Paris from the late 1800s-1930s.
"French Cancan"
Choreography by Fiona Scruggs
Inspired by the traditional French Cancan, the Moulin Rouge, and history of Parisian cabarets as depicted at the Musée de Montmartre.
"Hula Hoops Galore"
Choreography by Rachel Steffen
A rhythmic gymnastics and hula hoop piece to emulate the circus-style atmosphere of the Moulin Rouge.
"The Cabaret"
Choreography by Fiona Scruggs
A cabaret jazz piece in the style the 1920s-1930s era.
"The French Resistance"
The following two pieces demonstrate the time period of World War II and service of Josephine Baker as a member of the French Resistance.
"Life in Paris"
Choreography by Fiona Scruggs and Alex Espinosa
Represents the time period change from the carefree lifestyle of the 1920s into the urgency of WWII during the 1940s.
"Medal of Resistance"
Choreography by Fiona Scruggs
Portrays the service and espionage efforts of Josephine Baker for the French Resistance of WWII.
"La Tribu Arc-En-Ciel"
Translates as "The Rainbow Tribe"
Choreography by Fiona Scruggs
Symbolizes Josephine Baker's vision of universal brotherhood, peace, equality, and her 12 adopted children from around the world, whom she called "The Rainbow Tribe."
"J'ai deux amours" (Music recording by Josephine Baker)
Translates as "I have two loves"
Choreography by Fiona Scruggs
Reflects on the process of this research and choreographic project while honoring the legacy of Josephine Baker.
Curtain Call
Photography Credits: Deborah McLaughlin