September Song

Harbourfront Centre Theatre, Toronto, Sept 10 - 19, 2021

Presented twenty years after the events of 9/11, September Song was an immersive performance installation based on Heather Nicol’s first-hand experience of the event and the lingering impacts of that cataclysmic morning in Lower Manhattan, where the artist lived for decades. Nicol performed the role of “The Sweeper” a PPE clad labourer (a first responder, COVID “essential worker”, or caregiver) seeking order and equanimity. The sensations of slipping, falling, floating, and ascending were embedded in the sounds and imagery. A diverse cast of recorded vocalists comprised the spatialized audio-score, which ranged from isolated, individuated utterances to the unified sounds of a choral ensemble. They were accompanied by acclaimed piano artist Eve Egoyan and bowed saw player Neal Evans. The audience was invited to safely gather during the COVID reopening period and reflect on global events, both past and present.