Moving Eastman is a dance and sonic performance that takes inspiration from the intersectional life of the Black American composer Julius Eastman.

Eastman, who died in 1990 aged just 49, is a key figure in late 20th century American music, but was marginalised during his lifetime. A black, gay, contemporary music composer, he lived every aspect of his identity to its fullest. His attitude was a total assault on the status quo.

Inspired by his life and legacy, the show responds to Mitsuye Yamada’s quote “invisibility is not a natural state for anyone”, sparking a discussion on who controls the narrative and who possesses the authority to tell their stories.

The piece embodies Eastman’s unconventional approach to making art across genres and disciplines in a quest for artistic freedom. The performance is led by British Afro-Caribbean vocalist, movement artist and composer Elaine Mitchener with original concept and choreography by Dam Van Huynh. Elaine is accompanied by her long-time collaborators The Rolling Calf: Jason Yarde, Neil Charles, Xhosa Cole.