The Word Begins. Here.

Steve Connell and Sekou (tha misfit) in The Word Begins at

Signature Theater now through December 2, 2007.

I had the opportunity to see Steve and Sekou at a local open mic spot in DC a few weeks ago. They were the featured artists of the night. There was no lighting, no soundtrack, no sets, not even mics that worked 100% of the time. But let me just say, they rocked my world. In the poetic sense that is.

I didn't think it could get better than that. I was mistaken. (It doesn't happen very often, but when it does, I have no problem admitting it!) I was set straight when I went to see The Word Begins, the two-man show written and performed by the dynamic duo this past weekend. To be pulled into the very personal, and yet absolutely universal, snapshot of life that is The Word - there is nothing better.

In a world where we are so often taught to turn our cheek when confronted by difficult issues, Steve and Sekou not only meet the hard topics head on, but they do it in such a way that hits every emotion and leaves the onlooker with a sense of absolute need to go out and change the world.

This is a show that caters to all demographics and yet, there is no way to describe the action-packed, throw-you-around emotionally type of performance that this is. Hip Hop has found a meaningful and important place in the theater. We are given permission to laugh beyond control and cry tears of anger and sadness almost within the same breath when these two take to the stage.

Be prepared to enter ill prepared for the ride you will be taken on, and be prepared to leave a better, more aware person.

Just for you, Comp Noise supporters: mention the code "misfit" when purchasing your tickets and get the usually $65 tickets for $20. Good looking out fellas.

Shows every evening except for Monday, with a matinée on Sunday. Please check the website for more info and tickets.

So really, there is no excuse to not see the show. And only everything to gain from being exposed to the raw, gritty, and intensely poignant world being offered by Steve and Sekou in The Word Begins. See you there.

Comp Noise had the chance to catch up with Sekou in a recent interview. Hear what he has to say about the show, and why you should be there.

Call for Artists

Call For Urban Artists (Performing and Fine Arts):

Dancers, poets, emcees, djs, theater artists, actors, singers, painters, photographers, graffiti, graphic, and all other urban artists are encouraged to apply.

Deadline for submissions: December 17, 2007

Complementary Noise and Expansion Dance Project Are Proud to Present:
Move-Ments: A Journey Through Dance From the Artist's Perspective

Move-Ments is a four-day, multimedia, multi-venue art exhibit that includes gallery showings of local fine artists, a live show by local performing artists, opening reception, club venue, and a live auction. "Move-Ments" events will be taking place April 10-13th, 2008.

We are looking for local Performing and Fine Artists to present work at our gallery exhibit, live performance, and other "Move-Ments" venues.

Requirements

• DC, Maryland, or Virginia resident
• Performing artists must be willing to create a 5-10 minute piece based on the Move-Ments themes
• Fine artists must be willing to create 6-8 pieces based on the Move-Ments themes

Celebrating movement from the perspective of those who dance:

Why Move?
Why? Move.
Why (I) Move.

OR

Celebrating dance from the perspective of those who are moved by it:
You Move?
You? Move.
You (Need to) Move

For more information and to submit an application, please visit:
Complementary Noise's Website

Expansion Dance Project's Website