Tastiera Per Luce
Premiered on May 5th, 2023 at Beckett Rosset’s underground salon in the West Village, NYC.
A Poem - Inspired by the “poetry” of Russian composer Alexander Scriabin who believed all forms of creativity were poetry and that when unified they could bring one to spiritual ecstacy. At the beginning of the industrial revolution he created the keyboard of light with colors assigned to sound. It was written into his scores at “Tastiera Per Luce”.
This piece is also derived from Ellen’s extensive research into Scriabin’s life, having read Scriabin’s philosophies on spirituality and “poetry”, as well as his journals. This research was made possible by the NY Public Library for the Performing Arts rare books archives at Lincoln Center.
Research and access to Scriabin’s journals thanks to the NY Performing Arts Public Library archives / Poster watercolor and colored pencil on paper , 24” x 18” / Costume Hand made taffeta cape with tulle collar. Hand altered sheer silver unitard. Custom Freed of London pointe shoes. / Choreography by Ellen Frances (using pantomime) / Lighting Design by Ellen Frances / Original Score inspired by Ellen’s research into Scriabin directed by Ellen Frances and co-written by Ellen Frances and other composers
Poetry of Gesture
This performance art project is derived from Ellen Frances’s decades-long studio practices, coupled with extensive research into multifaceted theatrical productions from antiquity to the post-war eras. Each presentation is a written poem, told to the audience using pantomime in front of large-scale painted backdrops. This project has appeared in the Brooklyn Rail and the New York Times. It was featured at VOLTA International Art Fair, Spring 2023.
For information on upcoming shows of performance and paintings go to Events.